This Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip is a fun, cheesy treat that’s perfect for any gathering! With crispy bacon and creamy cheese wrapped in a tasty crescent dough, it’s sure to please.
Honestly, who can resist bacon? When I serve this, it disappears faster than I can say “more cheese, please!” It’s so easy to make and always a hit with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base for our dip, providing creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well as a lower-fat substitute.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick! You can easily swap it with mild cheddar or even pepper jack if you want a bit of heat.
Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds great flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh or even crispy roasted chickpeas for some crunch.
Green Onions: These add freshness and a slight bite. Chives or finely diced red onions also make great replacements.
Garlic & Onion Powder: Both are essential for flavor depth. If you prefer fresh, you can use a small amount of minced garlic and onion instead.
How Do I Shape a Perfect Ring with the Dip?
Shaping the dip into a ring can be tricky but fun! Here’s how to do it well:
- First, mix all your ingredients until smooth. Make sure everything is well combined for easy shaping.
- Transfer the mixture to your serving plate. Use your hands or a spoon to mold it into a ring. A small bowl in the center helps create a perfect hole.
- For best results, refrigerate your shaped dip for 30 minutes. This allows it to firm up and hold its shape when served!
How to Make Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (or chives)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
For Garnish and Serving:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
- 1 small bowl of cranberry sauce or jam (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator to ensure it firms up before serving. Total time: around 45 minutes. Perfect for snacking during parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, take your softened cream cheese and add in the shredded cheddar cheese. Then, mix in the cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, optional smoked paprika, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well blended, and you have a smooth mixture with tasty bits of bacon and onions throughout.
2. Shaping the Dip:
Once everything is mixed, you can create that fun ring shape! With clean hands or using a spoon, scoop the mixture onto a serving plate or a wooden board. Shape it into a ring, pressing it down gently to keep it together. Don’t forget to make a hole in the center to give it that festive wreath look!
3. Adding the Finishing Touches:
For some extra flavor and a pretty appearance, sprinkle more crumbled bacon and freshly chopped parsley over the top of your cheese ring. This will make it look even more appealing for your guests!
4. Refrigerating:
To allow the flavors to meld and help the dip hold its shape, cover it lightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for making it easier to serve later.
5. Prepare to Serve:
Once the dip is chilled, it’s time to enjoy! Serve it cold or at room temperature, and provide crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables on the side for dipping. If you want to add a sweet touch, set out a small bowl of cranberry sauce or jam next to your dip—this pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors!
Now your creamy, cheesy Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip is ready to be the star of your gathering! Enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used in place of regular cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the dip may be slightly less creamy, but it will still taste great!
How Long Does This Dip Last in the Refrigerator?
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again for the best texture!
Can I Make This Dip Spicy?
Yes! If you like a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese in place of sharp cheddar. You can also increase the smoked paprika or add a dash of hot sauce to the mix!
What Can I Serve with This Dip Besides Crackers?
This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers! Fresh vegetable sticks, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices are all excellent options. You can even use pretzel bites for a fun twist!
