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Imagine being gifted a deliciously creamy, cheesy dip so good that you can’t help but recreate it at home. That’s exactly what happened to Trisha Yearwood, the renowned country music artist turned celebrity chef, when she received this delectable Charleston Cheese Dip in a hotel gift basket during a visit to Charleston, South Carolina. She adored it so much that she crafted her own version, and it’s easy to see why! Packed with rich cheese, crispy bacon, and buttery cracker breadcrumbs, this dip is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dip is the epitome of indulgence, combining the smoothness of cream cheese and mayonnaise with the savory goodness of sharp Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. A hint of cayenne pepper and fresh green onions adds a delightful kick, while a topping of buttery Ritz cracker crumbs and crispy bacon makes it utterly irresistible. It’s quick to prepare and always the first to disappear at parties!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Shallow baking dish
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 8 butter crackers, such as Ritz, crushed
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Crackers, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, cream cheese, grated Cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses, green onions, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Spread this mixture evenly into a shallow baking dish.
- Top with crushed butter crackers.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the dip is heated through and bubbly, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon on top, and serve with additional crackers. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the dip for the last couple of minutes, but keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Try using pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick.
- Mix in diced jalapeños for those who love extra heat.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approx. 220
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Add the cracker topping just before baking.
Q: What can I serve with this dip?
A: It pairs perfectly with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Just make sure they melt well.
Conclusion
This Charleston Cheese Dip is a delightful addition to any appetizer spread, and it’s sure to win over your guests with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you come up with. Happy dipping!
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