This baked potato dip is creamy and cheesy, just like your favorite loaded baked potato, but made for sharing! It’s packed with flavors like sour cream, cheese, and crispy bacon bits.
I love serving it with crunchy veggies or tortilla chips. It always disappears at parties! Plus, who can resist a dip that tastes like a warm hug? 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tanginess to the dip. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers a bold flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, use medium cheddar or even mozzarella. Vegan cheese can substitute for a dairy-free option.
Bacon: Crispy bacon brings a delightful crunch and flavor. For a vegetarian version, use mushroom bacon or crispy chickpeas instead.
Green Onions: They provide freshness. If they’re not available, shallots or finely chopped regular onions can be used for a similar taste.
Ranch Dressing Mix: It enhances flavor but is optional. You can swap it for a pinch of dill or Italian seasoning for a different twist!
How Can I Ensure My Dip is Creamy and Smooth?
To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, follow these tips:
- Blend your sour cream and mayonnaise together well before adding other ingredients. This ensures a smooth base.
- Add the ingredients in stages, like bacon and cheese, to mix evenly without lumps.
- Be careful not to overbake; 20-25 minutes is usually perfect. You want it hot and bubbly, but not dried out.
These steps will help create a deliciously creamy dip that everyone will enjoy!
Baked Potato Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional)
- 1 (2 oz) packet of dry ranch dressing mix (optional: for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This baked potato dip is quick and easy to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for baking. So, in total, set aside about 35-40 minutes to get this delicious dip ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps to ensure the dip bakes evenly and comes out perfectly melted and bubbly.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of sour cream and 1 cup of mayonnaise. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Goodies:
Next, add in the chopped cooked bacon (saving some for later) and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (again, reserve 1/2 cup for topping). Toss in the chopped green onions, too! If you want, sprinkle in the ranch dressing mix for extra flavor. Gently fold these ingredients into the creamy mixture until well combined.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your mixture to a baking dish or an oven-safe bowl. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so it bakes evenly.
5. Top It Off:
Now for the best part: sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the dip, and add the remaining chopped bacon for that extra crispy touch.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it! It’s ready when the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
7. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish it with any remaining green onions and chives, if you’re using them.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in! Serve the warm dip with ridged potato chips and/or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful munching experience. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Feel free to enjoy this warm, creamy baked potato dip that’s just perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Can I Use Low-Fat Ingredients for This Dip?
Absolutely! You can substitute low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise to make a lighter version of this dip, and it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving when you’re ready to enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even avocado for a unique twist. Customize it to your taste!
