Description
This Easy BLT Dip is the ultimate party appetizer, combining the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich in a creamy, savory dip. Made with sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, ranch dressing mix, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, it’s perfect for serving with crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables for dipping. The recipe is simple to prepare and requires chilling time to meld the flavors, making it ideal for gatherings or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Base
- 16 ounces sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
Mix-Ins
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Seasoning & Serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Remove cream cheese from the refrigerator at least an hour before starting to allow it to soften. If short on time, microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and spreadable.
- Combine Sour Cream and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sour cream using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating the creamy dip base.
- Add Mayonnaise and Ranch Dressing Mix: Stir in the mayonnaise and the entire packet of ranch dressing mix until evenly incorporated, enhancing the flavor with tang and seasoning.
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper according to your preference to balance the flavors.
- Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy using your preferred method—stovetop, oven, or microwave. Properly cooked bacon adds a crunchy texture and smoky flavor.
- Crumble the Bacon: After cooking, let the bacon cool slightly, then crumble it into small pieces and set aside for folding into the dip.
- Prepare the Lettuce and Tomatoes: Thoroughly wash and dry the lettuce, then shred it into small pieces. Dice the tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces to combine well in the dip.
- Fold in the Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomatoes: Gently fold the crumbled bacon, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes into the creamy mixture to evenly distribute the classic BLT ingredients throughout the dip.
- Add Cheddar Cheese (Optional): If desired, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, adding a sharp, melty element that complements the other flavors.
- Cover and Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.
- Stir Before Serving: Before serving, stir the dip well to redistribute ingredients and ensure an even texture and flavor in every bite.
- Serve with Your Favorite Dippers: Serve the BLT dip chilled with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping, making it a perfect appetizer for parties and gatherings.
Notes
- Using softened cream cheese makes mixing easier and results in a smoother dip texture.
- For crispy bacon, baking in the oven on a wire rack or pan often yields even cooking and less mess.
- Chilling the dip overnight intensifies the flavors and improves the texture.
- Optional cheddar cheese adds a nice cheesy richness but can be omitted for a lighter dip.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if the ranch mix or bacon is salty.
- This dip can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
