Smoky Red Pepper Cheddar Bacon Dip
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Smoky Red Pepper Cheddar Bacon Dip, a delightful treat for any gathering! This easy-to-make dip combines the sharpness of white cheddar with the velvety texture of cream cheese and a hint of smokiness from roasted red peppers. Finished off with crispy bacon and fresh scallions, this dip tastes even better after it sits for a while, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Perfect for game days, parties, or cozy nights in, serve it up with crunchy veggie sticks, toasted baguettes, or your favorite crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer!
N/A
Servings
160
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sharp white cheddar cheese
3/4 cup (shredded)
Cream cheese
4 ounces (softened)
Sour cream
1/4 cup (none)
Mayonnaise
1/4 cup (none)
Roasted red pepper
1/4 cup (diced)
Tabasco sauce
2 teaspoons (none)
Bacon
2 slices (diced and cooked until crispy)
Scallion
1/2 cup (sliced)
Salt and pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine the sharp white cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, diced roasted red pepper, and Tabasco sauce. Blend until the mixture is fairly smooth and creamy.
2
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced bacon until it becomes crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
3
Set aside a portion of the crispy bacon for garnishing. Stir the remaining bacon into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
4
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to enhance the flavors.
5
Just before serving, garnish the dip with the reserved bacon and sliced scallions for an added crunch and flavor.
6
Serve with an array of dippables such as breadsticks, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices.
Nutrition Information
13
Fat
2.3
Carbs
7.7
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smoky Red Pepper Cheddar Bacon Dip?
It is a rich and creamy appetizer made from white cheddar, cream cheese, roasted red peppers, and crispy bacon, perfect for parties and gatherings.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 3/4 cup of shredded sharp white cheddar cheese for a bold and tangy flavor.
How do I prepare the base of the dip?
In a food processor, combine the white cheddar, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, roasted red pepper, and Tabasco sauce until smooth.
Do I need to cook the bacon before adding it?
Yes, the bacon should be diced and sautéed in a skillet until crispy, then drained on paper towels to remove excess grease before being added to the dip.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, it is recommended to make it at least one hour in advance and chill it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
How many calories are in a serving of this dip?
Each serving contains approximately 160 calories.
Is this dip keto-friendly?
With only 2.3 grams of carbohydrates and 7.7 grams of protein per serving, this dip is a great low-carb and keto-friendly option.
What should I serve with Smoky Red Pepper Cheddar Bacon Dip?
It pairs perfectly with breadsticks, fresh vegetable sticks, toasted baguette slices, or your favorite crackers.
How long should the dip chill before serving?
The dip should be covered and chilled in the refrigerator for at least one hour for the best taste.
What provides the smokiness in this recipe?
The smokiness comes from the combination of roasted red peppers and the savory, salty flavor of the crispy bacon.
Can I use a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is essential to blend the cheeses and peppers into a fairly smooth and creamy consistency.
How do I garnish the dip?
Reserve a portion of the crispy bacon and some sliced scallions to sprinkle on top just before serving.
Is this dip spicy?
It has a mild kick from 2 teaspoons of Tabasco sauce, which provides a hint of heat without being overwhelming.
How much fat is in a serving?
There are 13 grams of fat per serving in this recipe.
Can I use regular cheddar instead of white cheddar?
Yes, regular sharp cheddar can be substituted, though it will change the color and slightly alter the flavor profile of the dip.
What is the preparation for the cream cheese?
The 4 ounces of cream cheese should be softened to room temperature before blending to ensure a smooth texture.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 9 ingredients in total, including salt and pepper to taste.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While you can use pre-shredded cheese, shredding your own from a block of sharp white cheddar usually results in a better texture for dips.
How much roasted red pepper is needed?
You will need 1/4 cup of diced roasted red pepper for this recipe.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You could substitute plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover dip should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long does the dip last in the fridge?
When stored properly, the dip should remain fresh for 3 to 4 days.
Is there any fiber in this dip?
According to the nutritional information provided, there is no significant fiber content in this recipe.
Can I serve this dip warm?
While designed as a chilled dip, you could potentially bake it in the oven if you prefer a hot cheese dip, though the texture of the mayo and sour cream may change.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your bacon and Tabasco sauce to ensure no hidden gluten is present.
How much scallion is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of sliced scallions, primarily used for garnishing and adding a fresh bite.
Can I add more bacon?
Absolutely! You can increase the bacon amount if you prefer a heartier, saltier dip.
What is the protein count?
This dip contains 7.7 grams of protein per serving.
Is this dip suitable for game days?
Yes, its bold flavors and creamy texture make it a popular choice for game day appetizers and sports parties.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to pork bacon, though the flavor will be slightly different.