Jump to recipe
Yields:
8 - 10 serving(s)
Prep Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 35 mins
One scoop of this million dollar dip and it’s easy to see how it earned its name—it tastes downright indulgent. The rich, creamy base is packed with melty cheese, crispy bacon, crunchy nuts, and plenty of green onions for freshness. Bring it to brunch, game day, or any gathering that needs a standout party dip, and don’t expect leftovers.
What is million dollar dip?
Think of this dip as a cousin to loaded pimento cheese. It’s a crave-worthy mix of cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and green onions, with a little extra zip from garlic powder and cayenne pepper. Toasted slivered almonds add both nutty flavor and a surprisingly soft bite after chilling. And of course, there’s bacon—lots of it. While some versions rely on packaged bacon bits, freshly cooked bacon brings the best crunch and irresistible flavor.
What other types of cheese can you use in million dollar dip?
To switch up the flavor, try using 1 cup cheddar cheese and 1 cup Swiss cheese. You can also substitute half of the cheddar cheese for shredded smoked Gouda. Shredded pepper jack cheese works too if you enjoy a bit of a kick! Stir in some blue cheese if you like the tangy, bold flavor. This dip is very versatile, so feel free to experiment with whatever cheeses you like best.
Can you use store-bought bacon crumbles instead of fresh bacon in million dollar dip?
Yes. It's impossible to beat the crispness and flavor of freshly fried bacon, but store-bought bacon crumbles can be used. If you go that route, opt for varieties made with real bacon.
Why is it called million dollar dip?
Million dollar dip was created in the 1950s by Helen Corbitt for the Zodiac Room, a restaurant located inside a Neiman Marcus in Dallas, Texas. For this reason, it is also known as Neiman Marcus dip. The name likely evolved over the years because the rich and indulgent ingredients—cream cheese, bacon, cheddar cheese—make it taste like a million bucks!
What are the best dippers for million dollar dip?
This crowd-pleasing dip pairs perfectly with buttery crackers, bagel chips, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or corn chips. Fresh veggies like carrot sticks, bell peppers, and celery are also great for scooping. You can even spread it on bagels for an easy, indulgent breakfast or brunch.
Can you make million dollar dip ahead of time?
Yes, million dollar dip can be made up to three days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes even better on the second day!
Should you serve million dollar dip cold or warm?
Million dollar dip is traditionally served cold, making it a great make-ahead appetizer for parties. Just pull it out of the fridge and serve it when your guests arrive!
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheeseÂ
- 4 green onions, sliced thin and divided
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp. cayenne
- Buttery crackers and bagel chips, to serve
- Hot sauce, to serve
Directions
- Step 1In a large skillet over medium-low heat, toast the almonds until lightly golden and fragrant, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the pan and allow to cool.
- Step 2In the same large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon, turning as needed, until the fat has rendered and the bacon is golden and crispy, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate. Let the bacon cool to room temperature, then crumble it into bite-size pieces.
- Step 3In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise until very smooth. Fold in the cheese, toasted almonds, cooked bacon, 3 green onions, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne. Stir until well combined.
- Step 4Transfer to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Step 5Garnish with the remaining green onion and serve with crackers, bagel chips, and hot sauce.
Tip: Play around with different types of cheese! Swap some of the cheddar for Swiss or add in some blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
3-Ingredient Buffalo Chicken Dip
5 mins
10 Pretzel Recipes That Go Way Beyond Snack Time
15 Eggplant Recipes That Are Anything But Boring
11 Easy Recipes Using Canned or Frozen Peaches
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below