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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip with Chives

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A quick and easy creamy dip combining smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning, and fresh chives. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook 4 thick-cut bacon slices until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cool, crumble into small pieces.
  2. Soften the cream cheese: In a medium mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using an electric mixer or whisk, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add sour cream and mayonnaise: Mix in 1/2 cup sour cream and 1/2 cup mayonnaise. Continue beating until silky and combined, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Season the dip: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning mix and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. Fold gently with a spatula to distribute evenly.
  5. Incorporate cheese and bacon: Fold in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar and crumbled bacon pieces, reserving a small handful of both for garnish. Mix just until combined.
  6. Mix in fresh chives: Add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives and stir lightly.
  7. Chill before serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and dip firm up.
  8. Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheddar, bacon crumbles, and a few chives on top.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing. Cook bacon slowly over medium heat for crispiness. Freshly shredded cheddar tastes better than pre-shredded. Chill dip for at least 1 hour for best texture and flavor. Stir in a tablespoon of milk or sour cream if dip is too thick after chilling. Variations include adding cayenne pepper for spice or substituting bacon with smoked paprika or crispy fried onions for vegetarian version.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon dip, cheddar dip, ranch dip, party dip, creamy dip, bacon cheddar ranch dip, chives dip, easy dip recipe

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/creamy-bacon-cheddar-ranch-dip-with-chives-easy-recipe-for-parties/