This classic Million Dollar Dip is creamy, rich, and loaded with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, toasted almonds, and green onions. It takes just 15 minutes to stir together, then chills until ready, making it perfect for parties and Game Day gatherings!
If you love easy, make-ahead party dips, you might also enjoy my homemade pimento cheese or a warm, melty queso dip, and you can find even more favorites in my Appetizers and Party Food collection.
Table of Contents
Before You Get Started
A few quick tips make this dip turn out just right every time:
- Soften the cream cheese fully. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes so it blends smoothly with the mayo and stays lump free.
- Toast the almonds for extra flavor. Spread sliced almonds on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once, until lightly golden and fragrant. Alternatively, microwave them on a plate for 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep a close eye on them since they can burn quickly.
- Plan ahead for chilling. The dip needs at least 1 hour in the fridge so the flavors can meld and the texture can set.
- Let it warm slightly before serving. Pull the dip out of the fridge about 10 to 15 minutes before serving for the creamiest, easiest scooping.
What Is Million Dollar Dip?
Million Dollar Dip is a creamy, cold cheese dip made with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sharp cheddar, then studded with crispy bacon, toasted almonds, and green onions. It is rich and savory with just a tiny hint of warmth from cayenne. You might also hear it called Neiman Marcus Dip, since a version of this recipe became popular in the store’s café years ago. No matter the name, it is known for tasting indulgent and special with very little effort.
How to Make Million Dollar Dip
This dip comes together in just a few simple steps, and each one helps create that signature creamy texture and balanced flavor.
Step 1: Make the Creamy Base
In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until completely smooth. Taking the time to eliminate lumps here gives you a silky finished dip.
** Quick Note: If your cream cheese is still too firm, microwave it in 10-second bursts until just pliable. Cold cream cheese is the most common cause of a chunky dip.
Step 2: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne until evenly combined. The cayenne adds gentle warmth without making the dip spicy, but you can leave it out if you prefer.
Step 3: Fold in the Good Stuff
Gently fold in the toasted almonds, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Stir just until everything is evenly distributed.
** Pro Tip: For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven on a sheet pan at 400°F for about 18 to 20 minutes. It cooks evenly and crumbles easily once cooled.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to come together.
Step 5: Serve
Let the dip soften at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions if you like, and set out your favorite crackers, chips, or veggies.
Best Dippers and Serving Ideas
Because this dip is thick and creamy, sturdier dippers work best. Here are some of our favorites:
- Crackers: Ritz, butter crackers, or wheat crackers work great.
- Chips: Sturdy tortilla chips, pita chips, or pretzel crisps.
- Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds.
- Bread: toasted baguette slices or crostini.
Storage, Freezing, and Make-Ahead
Make-Ahead:
This dip is ideal for making ahead. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavor actually improves as it sits, so making it the day before a party is a smart move.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended. The cream cheese and mayonnaise base can separate and become grainy or watery after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Million Dollar Dip and why is it called that?
Million Dollar Dip is a creamy, cold cheese dip made with cream cheese, mayonnaise, sharp cheddar, bacon, toasted almonds, and green onions. It became known as Neiman Marcus Dip after a similar version was served in the store’s café, and the name stuck because it tastes rich and indulgent.
Can I make Million Dollar Dip without nuts?
Yes. You can simply leave out the almonds if you have a nut allergy. For crunch, try substituting roasted sunflower seeds or pepitas.
Can I serve Million Dollar Dip warm?
This dip is best served cold or at cool room temperature. Warming it can cause the cream cheese and mayo to separate, which affects the texture.
How far ahead can I make this dip?
You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Keep it tightly covered in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving.
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Watch How to Make It
Million Dollar Dip
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and finely crumbled
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Optional garnish: additional sliced green onion
- For serving: crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzel crisps, cut-up raw veggies such as carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, and celery sticks
Instructions
Make the Creamy Base
- In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and fully combined.
Add the Seasonings and Cheese
- Mix in the shredded cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir until evenly incorporated.
Fold in the Mix-Ins
- Gently fold in the chopped almonds, crumbled bacon, and green onions until everything is well distributed.
Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Let the dip sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture. Garnish with additional sliced green onions, if desired.
Notes
- Soften cream cheese fully at room temperature for at least 30-45 minutes for a smooth dip.
- To toast almonds: Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring once, until golden. Alternatively, microwave on a microwave-safe plate for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- For crispy bacon, bake on a sheet pan at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Overnight is even better.
- Let dip sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Make up to 2 days ahead. Flavor improves as it chills.
- Freezing not recommended. Texture may become grainy.
- Best served with sturdy crackers, tortilla chips, pretzel crisps, or raw veggies.
- Leave out cayenne if you prefer no heat at all.
Did you make this recipe?
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