This Million Dollar Dip is a game-changer for your next gathering! Creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect appetizer that’ll have your guests begging for the recipe. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it your new go-to for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-pleaser: This dip is guaranteed to be a hit at any party or gathering.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors mingle in the fridge.
- Versatile: Serve with a variety of dippers for a customizable snacking experience.
- Rich and indulgent: The combination of cream cheese, mayo, and cheddar creates a luxurious texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Slivered almonds: Toasted for a nutty crunch that elevates the texture.
- Cream cheese: The creamy base that brings everything together.
- Mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps create a smooth consistency.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a tangy flavor punch.
- Bacon: Because everything’s better with bacon! Adds a smoky, salty element.
- Green onions: For a fresh, mild onion flavor and pop of color.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the dip with savory depth.
- Black pepper and cayenne: Spices that add warmth and a subtle kick.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Variations
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cheese swap: Try using a combination of cheeses like Gruyère or Pepper Jack.
- Veggie boost: Mix in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
- Herb infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or chives for a bright flavor.
How to Make Million Dollar Dip
Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until well combined. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth.
Step 2: Add the Good Stuff
Fold in the toasted almonds, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, and seasonings. Gently mix to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. Before serving, give it a quick stir and top with extra green onions if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Toast the almonds until they’re golden brown for maximum flavor.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
- Grate your own cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Don’t overmix after adding the chunky ingredients to maintain texture.
How to Serve
Serve this Million Dollar Dip with an array of dippers:
- Buttery crackers or toasted baguette slices
- Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers
- Pretzel chips or pita chips for extra crunch
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dip doesn’t freeze well due to the mayonnaise and cream cheese base.
Reheating
No need to reheat! Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop even more. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
Is there a way to make this dip lighter?
You can use light cream cheese and mayonnaise, but keep in mind it might affect the texture slightly. Consider adding Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian version?
Try using smoked almonds or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar smoky flavor without the meat.
Can I serve this dip warm?
While traditionally served cold, you could try baking it in a dish at 350°F for about 20 minutes for a warm, gooey version.
This Million Dollar Dip is worth every penny and every minute spent making it. It’s the kind of recipe that’ll become your secret weapon for gatherings, game days, or just when you need a special treat. Give it a try, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “pass the crackers!”
Print
Million Dollar Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Dip is a rich, creamy, and indulgent appetizer that combines cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and toasted almonds. This crowd-pleasing dip is perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a luxurious and flavorful spread.
Ingredients
- 2/3 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
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Combine base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise with a rubber or silicone spatula and mix well to combine. (It’s ok if the mixture is not entirely smooth.)
- Add remaining ingredients: Fold in the chopped almonds, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper and cayenne pepper.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Serve: Top with a few more sliced scallions and serve with buttery crackers, toasted baguette, and/or fresh-cut vegetables.
Notes
- Use brick-style cream cheese, not the kind that comes in a tub. Set it out at room temperature in advance to give it time to soften.
- You can use a hand mixer to combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise, but fold in the rest of the ingredients by hand for optimal texture.
- To toast the almonds, place them in a medium skillet over medium heat. Stir very frequently to toast evenly for 5 to 7 minutes, until light brown and aromatic.
- This dip can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 460kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 28g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
