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This creamy and savory hot smoked Gouda bacon dip brings together the smoky richness of Gouda cheese, the crispiness of bacon, and the fresh bite of scallions for a warm, bubbly treat that turns any gathering into a celebration. Perfectly golden on top and irresistibly smooth inside, this dip makes party snacking effortlessly delicious.
I first made this for a winter game night, and it instantly became our go-to when friends come over craving something indulgent and shareable.
Ingredients List
- Cream cheese: for a smooth and creamy base select full fat for best richness
- Mayonnaise: adds extra creaminess and a subtle tang
- Sour cream: brightens the dip and keeps it light yet luscious
- Smoked Gouda shredded: brings a deep smoky flavor and melts beautifully choose a high quality artisan-style cheese
- Bacon cooked and chopped: for crispy smoky bites choose thick-cut bacon for hearty texture
- Scallions chopped fresh: for a mild onion flavor that lightens the richness
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste: enhances and balances all flavors use freshly cracked for best aroma
Cooking Steps
- Prepare Oven and Cream Cheese:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Microwave cream cheese for 30 seconds to soften it making the rest of the mixing smooth and easy.
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until the mixture is silky and well combined but not runny.
- Combine Main Ingredients:
- Reserve some shredded Gouda, bacon, and scallions for topping. Add the remaining cheese, bacon, and scallions to the creamy base along with freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and evenly sprinkle the reserved cheese and bacon on top to create a golden crust. Bake for 30 minutes until the dip is bubbling and the surface is beautifully browned.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from oven, sprinkle the reserved scallions over the hot dip, and serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
I treasure using smoked Gouda in this dip because it adds a unique depth that takes traditional cheese dips to another level. Sharing this with family always fills our home with laughter and full plates.
Best Storage Practices
Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to bring back the melty texture without drying. This dip also freezes well for up to one month&thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Swaps
Try sharp white cheddar for a sharper taste if Gouda is not available Use turkey bacon for a lighter alternative though it will change the smoky profile Sour cream can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-packed option
Serving Pairings
Pairs wonderfully with crispy crackers, warm toasted baguette slices, or crunchy fresh vegetables like celery and bell pepper strips. It also makes a fantastic topping for baked potatoes or spread on toasted bagels for a hearty snack.
This dip is a crowd-pleaser with a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and crispy. It's an ideal recipe to make ahead and enjoy warm with loved ones.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What type of cheese works best for this dip?
Smoked Gouda provides a rich, smoky flavor that complements the creamy base and bacon's saltiness perfectly.
- → Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
- → What are good pairings to serve with this dip?
Crackers, baguette slices, and fresh vegetables like celery or carrot sticks work well for dipping.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to the dip?
Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes into the base mixture before baking to introduce subtle heat.
- → Is it necessary to microwave the cream cheese first?
Softening the cream cheese briefly helps achieve a smoother mixture and easier blending with other ingredients.