Description
A rich, savory, and creamy appetizer made with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and crispy bacon. This easy 15-minute dip is perfect for game days, parties, or a quick snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 6–8 strips thick-cut bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Splash of milk (optional, for consistency)
- Optional: 1-2 diced jalapeños
- Optional: 2-3 sliced green onions
- Optional: 1 teaspoon hot sauce
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy but slightly chewy. Remove and drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan. Crumble the bacon.
- In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the softened cream cheese over low heat. Stir constantly with a spatula until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk if too thick.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring continuously until melted. Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small handful for garnish.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, top with green onions and reserved bacon, and serve immediately with crackers, pretzels, or celery.
Notes
Shred your own cheese for a smoother melt; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents. Reserve bacon grease for extra flavor. Keep the dip warm in a crockpot on the ‘warm’ setting for parties. Do not freeze as the texture may become grainy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the batch
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 12
Keywords: bacon cheddar dip, easy appetizer, game day food, keto friendly, creamy dip, party snack, quick recipes