If you are searching for a crowd-pleaser that combines irresistible creaminess with savory, smoky goodness, this Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe will become your new favorite go-to. It’s velvety, cheesy, and bursting with crispy bacon bits, perfect for gatherings, game days, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of creamy textures and bold flavors, making it impossible to stop at just one scoop.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of ingredients in this Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe is what makes it so special. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, richness, and crunch, ensuring every mouthful is a delight.
- Bacon (350 g / 12 oz): Chopped and cooked until crispy, bacon adds that essential smoky, savory crunch that elevates the dip.
- Cream cheese (250 g / 8 oz, softened): The creamy base that gives the dip its luscious texture and tang.
- Sour cream (1 cup, preferably full fat): Adds a subtle tartness and smoothness that balances the richness.
- Mayonnaise (3/4 cup): Enhances the creaminess with a slightly tangy, silky finish.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a gentle, savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Shredded tasty or cheddar cheese (1 cup): Brings that classic cheesy sharpness and color.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for an irresistibly gooey texture.
- Shallots or scallions (1 cup, chopped): Provides fresh, mild onion notes and a lovely green pop of color.
- Round cob bread (1, sourdough recommended): Used as a bread bowl or toasted for dipping, adding a satisfying crunch.
- Jatz/Ritz or savory crackers (5, crushed): These crumbs thicken and add a subtle crunch to the dip.
- Oil spray: Helps prevent sticking while cooking bacon and prepping the bread.
- Additional crackers, chips, or toasted bread: For serving alongside the dip and soaking up every creamy bite.
How to Make Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection
Start by heating a non-stick skillet or frying pan over high heat, then add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it turns beautifully browned and crispy, the smell alone will have you excited for what’s coming. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess fat—this keeps the dip from getting greasy while preserving that delightful bacon flavor and crunch.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Ingredients
Next, grab a heatproof bowl and mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and garlic powder together. This combination forms a luxuriously creamy and flavorful base, which is the heart of your Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe. Make sure everything is blended smoothly so no lumps interrupt the silky indulgence you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Add Cheese, Bacon, and Shallots, Then Heat
Gently fold most of the cooked bacon, all the shredded cheeses, and most of the chopped shallots into the creamy mixture. Heat this blend in the microwave on high for about 3 minutes. The dip might look like the cheese oil has separated—don’t worry! Just stir it thoroughly and watch it come back together into a gooey, smooth delight that practically begs to be devoured.
Step 4: Prepare for Serving and Garnish
Once heated and mixed perfectly, pour the luscious dip into a serving bowl. Sprinkle the remaining bacon and shallots on top for texture and that extra pop of color and flavor. This topping not only makes it look inviting but adds delightful bursts of smoky crunch and fresh bite with every scoop.
Step 5: Toast Your Bread and Choose Your Dippers
Slice your round cob bread—sourdough is ideal here—and toast it lightly. The toasty bread cubes or slices serve as excellent scooping vehicles, providing a crispy counterpart to the creamy dip. Arrange alongside your favorite crackers, chips, or even toasted bread pieces for a variety of dipping options that delight all snack lovers.
How to Serve Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Top your cheese and bacon dip with extra crispy bacon bits and freshly chopped scallions or shallots. These garnishes add vibrant color and complementary texture that enhances both the presentation and flavor profile. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper can add a gentle kick as well.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs beautifully with an assortment of crunchy sides. Serve with classic crackers, tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers for a refreshing contrast to the rich dip. It also makes a fantastic companion to a casual charcuterie board.
Creative Ways to Present
For a showstopper presentation, serve the Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe in the hollowed-out sourdough cob bread, creating a bread bowl that guests can tear into or dip straight from. Alternatively, consider individual mini mason jars layered with dip and toppings for easy portion control and a cute party favor vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover dip in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy those delicious flavors even after your event has ended. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again.
Freezing
While this Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing the dip in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dip in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the dip looks a little separated after reheating, don’t panic; stirring will bring it back to its glorious creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon can be a leaner alternative and will still add a lovely smoky flavor, though it might be less crispy. Adjust cooking time accordingly to get the best crunch.
Is it possible to make this dip without a microwave?
Yes, you can gently warm the dip in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water or in a small saucepan on low heat, stirring frequently until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
Can I add other flavors or spices to this Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. Fresh herbs like chives also complement the flavors wonderfully.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
The combination of tasty or cheddar cheese with mozzarella creates a perfect balance of sharpness and melty creaminess, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda if you like.
Does this recipe work for larger or smaller groups?
Yes, the recipe scales well. Simply multiply or divide the ingredients proportionally to suit the number of guests you have in mind.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe is truly a little slice of comfort heaven. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving an indulgent snack, this dip never fails to deliver joy with every bite. Its rich, creamy texture paired with crispy bacon and melty cheese turns simple ingredients into a spectacular treat. Give it a try—you’re guaranteed to fall just as in love with it as I am.
Print
Cheese and Bacon Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This indulgent Cheese and Bacon Dip combines crispy bacon, creamy cheeses, and flavorful seasonings to create a rich and satisfying appetizer perfect for gatherings. Served warm, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, chips, or a toasted bread bowl for a deliciously cheesy treat.
Ingredients
Bacon and Aromatics
- 350 g / 12 oz bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shallots / scallions, chopped (~4 – 5 stalks)
Dairy and Creamy Base
- 250 g / 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded tasty or cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream (preferably full fat)
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
Seasoning and Extras
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or substitute with onion powder)
- 5 Jatz / Ritz or other plain savoury crackers, crushed
- Oil spray
For Serving
- 1 round cob bread (sourdough works best)
- Crackers, chips, toasted bread for dipping
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a non-stick skillet or fry pan over high heat, cook the chopped bacon until it is browned and crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture: In a heatproof bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Combine and Heat: Stir most of the cooked bacon, all of the shredded cheeses, and most of the chopped shallots into the creamy mixture. Microwave the mixture on high for 3 minutes. The dip might appear separated with oil from the cheese, but stirring well will bring it back together and maintain consistency.
- Garnish the Dip: Pour the warmed dip into a serving bowl and top with the remaining bacon and shallots for added texture and flavor.
- Prepare the Bread Bowl: Remove the center from the round cob bread, creating a bowl shape. Toast the bread you removed to serve alongside the dip.
- Serve: Present the cheese and bacon dip with the toasted bread bowl, extra crackers, chips, or toasted bread for dipping and enjoyment.
Notes
- Note 1: Using a combination of tasty or cheddar cheese and mozzarella adds both sharpness and creaminess to the dip.
- Note 2: Crushing crackers into the dip adds a subtle crunch and enhances texture.
- Use full-fat sour cream and cream cheese for the richest flavor and smooth texture.
- This dip is best served warm, so microwave again briefly if it cools down before serving.
- For a milder flavor, you can reduce the garlic powder or substitute with onion powder as preferred.
