Million Dollar Dip: The Ultimate Easy, Creamy, and Cheesy Party Appetizer Recipe
Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with our irresistible Million Dollar Dip recipe! This legendary party favorite lives up to its name, offering a rich, creamy, and undeniably luxurious taste that feels like a million bucks. And the best part? It comes together in just 10 minutes with only 6 simple ingredients. Imagine a luscious blend of creamy mayonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, savory crumbled bacon, toasted slivered almonds, fresh green onions, and aromatic garlic – all combined to create a dip that’s guaranteed to be the star of any gathering. Perfect for last-minute entertaining or a casual snack, this dip is unbelievably quick, profoundly flavorful, and incredibly versatile.
Why This Million Dollar Dip Recipe Is a Must-Try
You might recognize this famous concoction as Neiman Marcus Dip, a name that hints at its sophisticated yet surprisingly simple origins. This extraordinary party dip is a symphony of textures and flavors. It starts with a wonderfully creamy mayonnaise base, generously loaded with intensely savory crumbled bacon, delightfully crunchy toasted slivered almonds, and sharp, tangy cheddar cheese. Each scoop with a buttery cracker or a crisp tortilla chip delivers an explosion of taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
There’s a reason this dip consistently earns its “million dollar” moniker, much like its popular cousin, the million dollar chicken casserole. Its unparalleled combination of creaminess, cheesiness, and crunch makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering, a casual potluck, a spirited football party, or just a simple get-together with friends, this dip is usually the first to disappear. Its addictive quality ensures that once you start dipping, it’s hard to stop. The ease of preparation further cements its status as a go-to recipe for any host looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Your Million Dollar Dip
Crafting this incredible dip requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. While the full list with precise measurements is available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to get started on your million-dollar culinary journey. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dip’s signature flavor and texture profile, ensuring every bite is as satisfying as the last. Gather these fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve the best possible results.
Ingredient Deep Dive & Expert Substitution Tips
Each ingredient in our Million Dollar Dip contributes to its legendary flavor. Here’s how to choose and prepare them, along with savvy substitution suggestions to customize the dip to your liking.
MAYONNAISE: The backbone of this dip, mayonnaise provides its signature creamy base. We recommend using a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the richest flavor and best texture. While you can opt for light mayo, be aware it might slightly alter the richness. For an extra special touch, consider making homemade mayonnaise if you have the time; its fresh, tangy flavor is unparalleled.
BACON: The crispy, salty, and savory bacon is absolutely essential for that “million dollar” taste. For convenience, store-bought pre-cooked bacon or good quality bacon bits can be a time-saver. However, if you have a few extra minutes, cooking and crumbling your own bacon from scratch is highly recommended. To cook bacon perfectly, pan-fry it over medium heat until wonderfully crisp, then drain on paper towels before crumbling. Alternatively, baking bacon on a sheet pan at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes offers a hands-off approach and easy cleanup.
CHEESE: Medium or sharp cheddar cheese is our top preference for this dip, providing a robust and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. However, feel free to experiment! You can substitute or do a half-and-half blend with other excellent melting cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Colby. For the absolute best texture and flavor, we cannot stress enough the importance of shredding your own cheese from a block. Store-bought shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents (like cellulose) that can prevent it from melting smoothly and result in a slightly grainy texture. Freshly grated cheese, on the other hand, is softer, more delicate, and creates an incomparably smoother, creamier dip, making every scoop a true delight.
ALMONDS – The slivered almonds add a delightful textural contrast and a subtle nutty flavor that truly makes this dip special. While you *can* use raw almonds, toasting them is a game-changer. Toasting intensifies their nutty aroma and flavor, making them even crunchier and more irresistible. To toast, spread the slivered almonds in a single layer on a dry sheet pan. Roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become fragrant. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly! Immediately remove the toasted almonds from the hot sheet pan and transfer them to a cool plate or cutting board to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely before mixing them into the dip to maintain their crispness. If almonds aren’t your preference, toasted pecans or walnuts can also provide a delicious alternative crunch.
GREEN ONIONS – Freshly sliced green onions (scallions) provide a mild, refreshing oniony bite and a vibrant pop of color, cutting through the richness of the cheese and mayonnaise. Use both the white and green parts for maximum flavor and visual appeal. Make sure to chop them finely for an even distribution throughout the dip.
GARLIC – A touch of minced garlic adds an aromatic depth that ties all the savory flavors together. Freshly minced garlic offers the most pungent and authentic flavor. If fresh garlic isn’t available, or if you’re in a pinch, a half teaspoon of garlic powder can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Crafting Your Million Dollar Dip: Step-by-Step Instructions
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you visually through the process of making this incredible dip. For a printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all your prepped ingredients: mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, toasted slivered almonds, and minced garlic. Stir everything together thoroughly until all components are evenly distributed and fully incorporated into the creamy base. Make sure to reserve a small sprinkle of some of the mix-ins (a few almonds, green onion slices, and bacon crumbles) to use as a garnish later. This will add visual appeal to your finished dip.
- Once thoroughly mixed, transfer the Million Dollar Dip to an attractive serving bowl. Use the reserved almonds, green onion slices, and bacon crumbles to elegantly top the dip. This final garnish adds both beauty and a hint of the delicious flavors to come.
- For the best flavor, allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing the overall taste experience. Serve chilled with your favorite sturdy crackers like buttery Ritz crackers, wholesome Triscuits, or a selection of other robust crackers that can handle the dip’s rich texture.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Dip
To maintain its freshness and delicious flavor, store your Million Dollar Dip in an air-tight container. Keep it refrigerated, and it will remain delicious for up to 3 days. Ensure it doesn’t sit out at room temperature for more than an hour, as the mayonnaise base can spoil.
Absolutely! Million Dollar Dip is an excellent make-ahead appetizer, perfect for busy hosts. All of its individual components (grating the cheese, cooking and crumbling the bacon, toasting the almonds, chopping green onions, and mincing garlic) can be prepared several days in advance. Store each prepped ingredient in separate airtight containers or plastic baggies in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble. For maximum convenience, you can also fully prepare the entire dip and store it with an air-tight lid in the refrigerator up to a day in advance. The flavors often deepen and improve with a little chilling time, making it even more delicious on day two.
Yes, if you enjoy a little kick, you can easily add some heat to your Million Dollar Dip. Consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce (like Tabasco or Sriracha), or finely minced jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat) to the mixture. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spice.
While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can certainly customize it! Consider adding finely chopped water chestnuts for extra crunch, a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives for a different herbaceous note, or even a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an added layer of umami. Experiment to find your favorite variations!
Creative Serving Suggestions for Million Dollar Dip
Million Dollar Dip is best served chilled, offering a refreshing contrast to its rich flavors. The key to a great dipping experience is selecting sturdy dippers that can stand up to the dip’s creamy consistency. Classic choices include buttery crackers like Ritz, wholesome Triscuits, crisp tortilla chips, and savory pita chips. For those who enjoy a salty crunch, pretzel sticks or mini pretzels also make excellent companions.
Beyond crackers and chips, don’t forget the power of fresh vegetables! Broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, carrot sticks, and celery stalks provide a healthy, crunchy, and refreshing alternative for dipping. Cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices also work wonderfully, adding a light and crisp element. For an even more elegant presentation, consider serving the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl or arranging it on a beautiful platter surrounded by an assortment of dippers. No matter how you serve it, this dip is sure to be a hit!
More Irresistible Party Dip Recipes to Try
If you’re a fan of the Million Dollar Dip and are looking to expand your repertoire of crowd-pleasing appetizers, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of delicious dips out there perfect for any occasion, from game days to holiday feasts. These recipes are just as easy to make and guaranteed to be devoured by your guests:
- Creamy Crab Dip
- Flavorful Taco Dip
- Classic Reuben Dip
- Tangy Dill Pickle Dip
- Smoky Queso Dip
- Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Dip
- Kid-Friendly Pizza Dip
- Zesty Jalapeno Popper Dip
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Million Dollar Dip
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course:
Appetizer
Cuisine:
American
8
servings
10
minutes
427
Amanda Davis
Ingredients
-
1
cup
mayonnaise -
1
cup
medium cheddar cheese
grated, 1 heaping cup or 4 oz -
½
pound
bacon
cooked and crumbled, about 3/4 cup -
4
green onions
sliced, about 1/2 cup -
¾
cup
slivered almonds
toasted -
1
teaspoon
minced garlic
Things You’ll Need
-
Large mixing bowl
Before You Begin
- For food safety, this creamy dip should not be left out on the counter or unrefrigerated for more than 1 hour, as the mayonnaise will not stay fresh.
- While raw almonds are an option, toasting the almonds significantly enhances their crunch and nutty flavor. To toast them, spread slivered almonds on a sheet pan and roast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they achieve a golden-brown hue. Immediately remove them from the hot sheet pan to a cool surface; they will continue cooking and can burn if left on the hot pan. Ensure toasted almonds are completely cool before incorporating them into the dip to maintain their crispness.
- For a convenient shortcut, pre-cooked bacon (either store-bought crumbles or pre-cooked strips) can be used instead of cooking and crumbling bacon yourself. Just ensure it’s crispy and well-drained.
- This delicious dip will keep well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.
- All of the components of the dip – such as grating the cheese, cooking the bacon, toasting the almonds, and slicing the green onions – can be prepared in advance. Store each component in separate airtight containers or plastic baggies in the refrigerator until you’re ready to mix and serve.
Instructions
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, toasted slivered almonds, and minced garlic. Stir all ingredients together thoroughly until well combined and evenly distributed. Remember to reserve a small amount of almonds, green onions, and bacon crumbles for garnishing.
-
Transfer the mixed dip to your chosen serving bowl. Garnish the top with the reserved almonds, green onion slices, and bacon crumbles for an appealing finish.
-
For optimal flavor melding, refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve chilled with your favorite sturdy dippers such as buttery crackers (like Ritz), Triscuits, or an assortment of other robust crackers or fresh vegetables.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
serving (1/4 cup)
|
Calories:
427
cal
|
Carbohydrates:
4
g
|
Protein:
9
g
|
Fat:
42
g
|
Saturated Fat:
10
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
16
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
14
g
|
Trans Fat:
1
g
|
Cholesterol:
45
mg
|
Sodium:
459
mg
|
Potassium:
165
mg
|
Fiber:
1
g
|
Sugar:
1
g
|
Vitamin A:
230
IU
|
Vitamin C:
1
mg
|
Calcium:
136
mg
|
Iron:
1
mg
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.