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Yields:
8 - 10 serving(s)
Prep Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 35 mins
One bite and you'll understand why this is called Million Dollar Dip. It really does taste like a million bucks! The creamy, cheesy base is loaded with crisp bacon, crunchy nuts, and plenty of green onion. Plus, as one of the easiest appetizers you can make, it tastes great cold or at room temperature! Bring this to a brunch party, a Super Bowl celebration, or any occasion that calls for delicious party dips, and watch as it disappear almost instantly.
What is Million Dollar Dip?
Similar to a loaded pimento cheese, this dip is an addictive combination of cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, and green onions. It also gets a zippy kick from garlic powder and cayenne pepper. Toasted slivered almonds not only add their savory, nutty flavor to the dip, they also take on a tender texture after a stint in the refrigerator. There's also plenty of crispy bacon in this dip. While most recipes call for store-bought bacon bits, nothing beats the crispness and mouth watering flavor of freshly fried bacon.
What other cheese can I use?
To switch up the flavor, try using 1 cup cheddar cheese and 1 cup Swiss cheese. If you love the strong flavor of blue cheese, stir in some crumbles for a kick! This dip is very forgiving, so feel free to experiment with what cheese you like best.
Can you use bacon bits in Million Dollar Dip?
Yes. It's impossible to beat the crispness and flavor of freshly fried bacon, but store-bought bacon bits can be used. If you go that route, opt for the "real" bacon bits or pieces.
Why is it called Million Dollar Dip?
Million Dollar Dip was created in the 1950s by Helen Corbitt for the Zodiac Room, a restaurant located inside of a Neiman Marcus in Dallas, Texas. For this reason, it is also known as Neiman Marcus dip. The name likely adapted over the years because the "rich" and indulgent ingredients—cream cheese, bacon, cheddar cheese—make it taste like a million bucks!
What do you serve with Million Dollar Dip?
This easy appetizer goes very well with crunchy buttery crackers, bagel chips, crostini, or corn chips. For a lighter option, consider serving the dip with fresh cut vegetables such as carrots and celery. It's also scrumptious smeared on bagels for a fabulous breakfast spread!
Can you make Million Dollar Dip ahead of time?
Yes, Million Dollar Dip can be made up to three days ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes even better on the second day!
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup
slivered almonds
- 8
slices bacon
- 1
(8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup
mayonnaise
- 2 cups
freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4
green onions, sliced thin and divided
- 1/2 tsp.
kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp.
ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp.
garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp.
cayenne
Buttery crackers, bagel chips, to serve
Hot sauce, to serve
Directions
- Step 1In a large skillet over medium-low heat, toast the almonds until lightly golden and fragrant, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the pan and allow to cool.
- Step 2In the same large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon, turning as needed, until the fat has rendered and the bacon is golden and crispy, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate. Let the bacon cool to room temperature, then crumble it into bite-size pieces.
- Step 3In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise until very smooth. Fold in the cheese, toasted almonds, cooked bacon, 3 green onions, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne. Stir until well combined.
- Step 4Transfer to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Step 5Garnish with the remaining green onion and serve with crackers, bagel chips, and hot sauce.
Tip: Play around with different types of cheese! Swap some of the cheddar for Swiss or add in some blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
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