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+ servings

Million Dollar Dip

This million dollar dip combines a creamy, cheese base with sharp cheddar, bacon, green onions, and almond for the perfect party appetizer!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword cold dip for crackers, easy party dip, make ahead dip, million dollar dip, million dollar dip recipe, Neiman Marcus dip
Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 8 people
Calories 315kcal

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.
    Combining cream cheese and mayo in a white mixing bowl.

Add the Seasonings and Cheese

  • Mix in the shredded cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir until evenly incorporated.
    Stirring in grated sharp cheddar cheese.

Fold in the Mix-Ins

  • Gently fold in the chopped almonds, crumbled bacon, and green onions until everything is well distributed.
    Adding bacon and green onions to the bowl.

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.
    Horizontal side shot of million dollar dip served with Ritz crackers.

Video

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.

Nutrition

Serving: 1/8 of the dip | Calories: 315kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 336mg | Potassium: 147mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 578IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 151mg | Iron: 0.5mg