There’s something about a warm, gooey dip that instantly transports me back to holiday gatherings with my family. Every Thanksgiving, after the hustle and bustle of getting the turkey in the oven, we’d all gather in the kitchen, waiting for the first round of appetizers to come out. That’s when I first fell in love with this Hot Smoked Gouda Bacon Dip—though back then, it was my grandmother’s simple cheese dip. Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected it, adding rich smoked gouda and crispy bacon for extra indulgence. Every bite is packed with creamy, smoky, and savory flavors that are hard to resist.
I remember one holiday in particular when my cousins and I were tasked with making the appetizers. We were nervous, as our family has quite the appetite for good food, but this dip stole the show. As it baked, the smell of bacon and gouda filled the house, luring everyone into the kitchen. By the time it was pulled out of the oven—bubbling and golden brown—it barely had time to cool before it was devoured. That dip became a family favorite, one we now make for every holiday, game night, and casual get-together.
But it’s not just about the taste—it’s about the memories that come with it. Whether it’s sharing laughs over the last scoop or fighting for the crispy bits on top, this recipe has brought us closer. And now, it’s become my go-to for gatherings with friends as well. There’s nothing quite like watching your guests’ eyes light up as they take that first bite. Trust me, once you make this Hot Smoked Gouda Bacon Dip, you’ll be finding every excuse to serve it. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and salty flavors—and, best of all, it’s super easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just need something comforting for a quiet night in, this dip will not disappoint.
How to Make Hot Smoked Gouda Bacon Dip
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Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese
- 16 ounces smoked gouda, shredded, divided
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and chopped, divided
- 3 scallions, chopped, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, soften the cream cheese in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until smooth and easy to stir.
- Mix in the mayonnaise and sour cream until well combined and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Set aside 1/3 cup of shredded gouda, 1/4 cup of bacon, and 2 tablespoons of chopped scallions for later.
- Stir the remaining gouda, bacon, scallions, and a pinch of black pepper into the cream cheese mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, then sprinkle the reserved gouda and bacon over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the dip is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining scallions. Serve hot.
Storing Suggestion
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Cooking Tips
For extra flavor, try using a mix of smoked gouda and sharp cheddar. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs perfectly with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots. A light beer or a crisp white wine makes an excellent drink pairing.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find smoked gouda, use regular gouda or even a sharp cheddar. Turkey bacon is a great alternative for a leaner option.
Seasonal Variations
In summer, add fresh diced tomatoes or roasted bell peppers for a burst of color and freshness. In fall, incorporate a touch of maple syrup to complement the smoky bacon.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and pork products. For a dairy-free version, substitute with dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use plant-based bacon for a pork-free option.
FAQ:
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it right before serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add finely diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mixture for extra heat.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute gouda with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze this dip?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dip, as the texture of the dairy ingredients may change upon thawing.
What should I serve with this dip?
This dip is great with chips, crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies like bell peppers and cucumber slices.
Hot Smoked Gouda Bacon Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 8 ounces packages of cream cheese
- 16 ounces smoked gouda shredded, divided
- 1 pound bacon cooked and chopped, divided
- 3 scallions chopped, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by heating your oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, soften the cream cheese in the microwave for 30 seconds, or until it is easily stirrable. Next, incorporate the mayonnaise and sour cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy without being too liquid.
- Set aside 1/3 cup of shredded gouda, 1/4 cup of bacon, and 2 tablespoons of scallions for topping later. Combine the remaining gouda, bacon, scallions, and black pepper with the cream cheese mixture, stirring well to blend.
- Pour the mixture into an oven-safe dish, top with the reserved gouda and bacon, and bake for 30 minutes or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.
- Once baked, garnish with the remaining scallions. Serve hot and enjoy!
