Hot Smoked Gouda Bacon Dip Recipe

Instructions

1. Preheat & Cook Bacon:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Cook bacon until crispy (about 6-8 minutes), drain, and crumble.

2. Prepare the Dip:

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded smoked Gouda and cheddar, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

3. Combine & Bake:

Stir in crumbled bacon. Transfer to the prepared baking dish, spread evenly, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispier top (optional).

4. Garnish & Serve:

Let cool slightly before garnishing with parsley. Serve with your favorite dippers!

Cooking Notes

• Use thick-cut bacon for best results. Pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon are alternatives.
• Greek yogurt can replace sour cream.
• Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours before baking. Bring to room temperature before baking or add extra time.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Buffalo: Add buffalo sauce and crumbled blue cheese.
• Spinach Artichoke: Add sautéed spinach or artichoke hearts.
• Vegan: Use plant-based alternatives for cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream, and plant-based bacon.

Keto & Low-Carb

This dip is already low-carb. For a fully keto version, use full-fat cheeses, sugar-free bacon, and serve with veggies, cheese crisps, or pork rinds.

FAQs

• Make Ahead? Yes, up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze? Possible, but texture may change. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.
• Serving Suggestions? Tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies. Keto options: cheese crisps or pork rinds.
• Regular Gouda? Works, but smoked Gouda is recommended. Use regular Gouda with smoked paprika or liquid smoke as a substitute.
• Spice Level? Not spicy unless you add extras. Adjust to your liking.

Enjoy this irresistible dip! It’s guaranteed to be a hit!