Description
This Million Dollar Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer combining cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, bacon, and a crunchy almond texture, perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Its smoky, cheesy flavor with a slight kick from cayenne makes it irresistible when served chilled alongside crackers, toast, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- â…” cup slivered almonds, toasted and chopped (90g)
- 1 (8-ounce/226g) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise (210g)
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, grated (226g)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp, finely chopped (40g)
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- â…› teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Combine base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise using a rubber or silicone spatula. Mix thoroughly until well combined, even if the mixture is slightly lumpy.
- Add remaining ingredients: Fold in slivered almonds, grated cheddar cheese, finely chopped crispy bacon, thinly sliced green onions, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix gently to distribute all the ingredients evenly throughout the dip.
- Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the dip for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top the dip with additional sliced scallions. Pair with buttery crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh-cut vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- For best flavor, toast the slivered almonds until golden brown before chopping to enhance their nuttiness.
- Allow cream cheese to soften to room temperature to ensure easier mixing and smoother texture.
- This dip is best served chilled, but can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
- Variations can include adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or swapping cheddar for smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Use low-sodium bacon to reduce the overall salt content if desired.
