Trisha Yearwood’s Charleston Cheese Dip

When it comes to irresistible party snacks, few things can compete with a creamy, cheesy dip. Trisha Yearwood’s Charleston Cheese Dip is a perfect example of this delicious category. Inspired by a memorable experience in Charleston, South Carolina, this dip features a delectable combination of cheeses, crispy bacon, and buttery cracker breadcrumbs. It’s no wonder that it’s a favorite at gatherings and events!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser with its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors. The blend of cream cheese, mayonnaise, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese creates a luscious base, while a hint of cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of kick. Topped with crunchy Ritz crackers and crumbled bacon, it’s a flavor-packed dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Once it hits the oven, the dip becomes bubbly and golden, making it hard to resist.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium mixing bowl
• Grater
• Shallow baking dish
• Oven
• Spatula or mixing spoon

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 8 butter crackers, such as Ritz, crushed
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Crackers, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cream cheese, Cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses, green onions, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture into a shallow baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle the crushed butter crackers evenly over the top of the cheese mixture.
5. Bake in the preheated oven until the dip is heated through and the top is golden and bubbly, about 15 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
7. Serve warm with crackers for dipping. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
• For extra flavor, use smoked bacon.
• Grate your own cheese for the best melting texture.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to customize this dip by adding diced jalapeños for extra heat or swapping in different cheeses like Pepper Jack for an added kick. You can also try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values may vary, each serving of this dip provides a delightful combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a hearty option for parties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the crackers and bake just before serving.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you prefer a leaner option.

Is this dip gluten-free? To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz.

Conclusion

Trisha Yearwood’s Charleston Cheese Dip is an irresistible addition to any gathering, combining rich flavors and textures in a simple, easy-to-make recipe. Give this dip a try at your next party and watch it disappear before your eyes! We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so feel free to share your experience in the comments below.