This Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip is a fun and cheesy treat that everyone will love! With crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings, it’s a tasty delight.
You might just find yourself going back for seconds—or thirds! I love to serve this dip with crunchy crackers or fresh veggies. It’s perfect for game days or casual gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This creates a creamy base for the dip. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you prefer something milder, you can use mild cheddar or even Monterey Jack for a softer taste.
Blue Cheese or Feta Cheese: These cheeses add a tangy note. If blue cheese is not your favorite, try goat cheese or even leave it out entirely. This will still be tasty!
Bacon: Crispy bacon is key for flavor and crunch. Turkey bacon can be a lower-fat substitute, but it won’t be as crispy. You can also use chopped ham or cooked sausage.
Green Onions: These provide freshness. If you don’t have them, chives are a great substitute and add a similar oniony taste.
How Do You Hollow Out a Bread Ring Without Messing It Up?
Hollowing out the bread takes a bit of care, but it’s easy once you know how. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Use a soft round bread, like a sourdough or Italian loaf. They are easier to clean out.
- With a serrated bread knife, cut around the inside of the bread at about an inch from the edge, forming a ring.
- Use your hands or a spoon to gently remove the soft inside bread. Avoid tearing the outer crust!
Make sure to keep the hollowed bread pieces for snacking or croutons later.
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 crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese (optional, for added tang)
- 1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tbsp green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Base:
- 1 round bread loaf (about 6-8 inches in diameter), ends trimmed if desired, to form the ring
For Serving:
- Crackers or sliced vegetables
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus time for gathering ingredients. It’s quick and easy to make, and it can be served right after preparation! Your guests will love this cheesy treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
Start by taking a medium mixing bowl and add the softened cream cheese. To it, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled blue cheese or feta (if you’re using it), garlic powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or hand mixer to mix everything until it’s creamy and well blended—this is going to be the base of your dip!
2. Add the Flavors:
Now it’s time to stir in the chopped cooked bacon and sliced green onions. Make sure to save a little bacon for later to sprinkle on top for garnish. Mix everything together so that the bacon and onions are evenly distributed throughout your cheesy goodness.
3. Hollow Out the Bread Ring:
Take your round bread loaf and carefully hollow out the center using a serrated knife. Cut a circle around the inside, leaving about an inch of crust to hold everything in. Remove the soft inside bread carefully and set it aside (you can use it for snacking later!). You want a nice ring shape with a well in the middle to hold your dip.
4. Fill the Bread Ring:
Spoon the cheese and bacon mixture into the hollowed-out bread ring. Make sure to fill it generously and evenly. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the extra shredded cheddar cheese and reserved bacon pieces over the top of your filled bread ring. This adds extra flavor and crunch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the filled bread ring on a serving board or plate. Serve it up with your choice of crackers or sliced vegetables for dipping. Gather your friends, and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious Bacon Cheese Ring Party Dip!
It’s a hit at any gathering, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Enjoy!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese mixture and even hollow out the bread ring a few hours in advance. Just cover the mixture and refrigerate it until you’re ready to fill the bread. Fill and bake just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with additional sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Your dip will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bread may become soggy, but you can still enjoy the dip by scooping it out and serving it with fresh crackers or veggies!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Definitely! While a round loaf works best, you can use any sturdy bread like a baguette or ciabatta. Just be sure it can hold the cheese mixture without falling apart. A sturdy bread will keep its shape and make for a great presentation!
