This fun Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip is creamy, cheesy, and full of crispy bacon. It’s perfect for sharing with friends during game nights or any gathering!
Who doesn’t love bacon and cheese together? I like to serve this dip with crunchy veggies or chips for a tasty combo that’s sure to make everyone smile. 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is key for the dip’s creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese instead. It has less fat but still tastes great!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can swap it for mild cheddar or even pepper jack for some spice!
Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a fantastic crunch. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using smoked paprika or a plant-based bacon substitute to mimic that smoky flavor.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the dip. For a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt, which also gives a slight tanginess.
Green Onions: These add freshness and color. If you don’t have them, finely chopped red onions can work too, but use them sparingly for a milder flavor.
How Do I Create a Perfect Hollow Bread Ring?
Making the bread ring is a fun part of this recipe! Here’s how to do it right:
- Choose a round sandwich loaf or bread bowl, about 8-9 inches wide.
- Using a serrated knife, carefully slice a circle in the center of the bread to remove the soft inner part.
- Keep the outer crust intact for structure, making sure it’s still sturdy enough to hold the dip. You can use the removed bread for serving or snacking!
This hollow bread piece is perfect for holding all that delicious dip and makes for an eye-catching presentation!
How to Make Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dip Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (reserve some for topping)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Bread:
- 1 round sandwich bread loaf or 1 round bread bowl (about 8-9 inches in diameter)
- Crackers or sliced veggies, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll want to chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to have this delicious dip ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dip:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon (make sure to save some for later), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use a spatula or mixer to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Preparing the Bread Bowl:
Take your round bread loaf or bread bowl and use a serrated knife to carefully cut a hole in the center. You want to create a ring shape by removing the soft inner part. Make sure to leave enough crust around the edges so it can hold all the delicious dip!
3. Filling the Ring:
Now, take that tasty cream cheese and bacon mixture and fill the hollowed-out bread ring. Pack it in there evenly so every bite is bursting with flavor!
4. Adding Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filled bread ring. Then, add the reserved crumbled bacon on top for that perfect finishing touch. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh chives or green onions for extra color and flavor.
5. Chilling the Dip:
Cover the dip with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully, making it even tastier when served!
6. Serving the Dip:
When you’re ready to enjoy, take the dip out of the fridge and serve it cold with your choice of crackers or sliced veggies. You can also use pieces of the reserved bread center to scoop up the creamy goodness!
This creamy and cheesy Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip is not just full of flavor, but it also looks fantastic on any table. Perfect for sharing, your friends and family will love it! Enjoy your dip and have a great time! 🎉
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Dip?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can work well, but it may change the texture slightly, making it a bit less creamy. Just make sure it’s softened to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the bread ring gets soggy, you can transfer the dip to a new serving dish for freshness!
Can I Prepare This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can make the dip mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just fill the bread ring right before serving to keep it looking fresh!
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that savory, rich flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes or olives can also add delicious depth to the dip!
