Looking for your next crowd-pleasing appetizer? Look no further than a delicious bacon, lettuce and tomato (BLT) dip recipe. With the classic flavors of a beloved BLT sandwich, this dip is a surefire hit at any party or get-together.
Read on to discover a simple BLT dip recipe, including step-by-step instructions for preparation and expert tips and tricks to whip up this delicious dish with ease.
BLT dip: A crowd-pleasing recipe for novice chefs and seasoned hosts alike
Whether you're new to cooking or the household chef, BLT dip is an easy-to-prepare dish that's a hit at any gathering. Serve it as a family snack or as an appetizer at your next party. BLT dip ingredients are customizable, so you can adjust the recipe to suit your loved ones' taste preferences. Plus, if you're short on time, feel free to prepare this dish ahead of time — so you'll have one less thing to worry about when your get-together rolls around.
With this blend of convenience, deliciousness and versatility, a BLT dip will not only impress your guests, but also quickly become a staple in your entertaining bag of tricks.
Preparing the perfect BLT dip at home
Serves: 8-10
Prep time: 15 min
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon, chopped.
- 16 oz. cream cheese softened.
- 1 ½ cups sour cream.
- ½ cup mayonnaise.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded.
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded.
- 1 cup Roma tomatoes, diced.
- ½ cup green onions, chopped.
- 1 tsp. garlic powder.
- ½ tsp. onion powder.
- ¼ tsp. smoked paprika.
- Salt and pepper, to taste.
- Crackers, toasted bread slices, chips or any other dipping option you prefer.
Bringing your BLT dip recipe to life: Step-by-step instructions
- Step 1: Start by cooking your bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked and crispy, remove your strips from the heat, drain them on a paper towel and chop them into bite-sized bacon bits.
- Step 2: Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Step 3: Add your cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika to the bowl. Then, stir until well combined.
- Step 4: Gently fold in your chopped bacon until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste and adjust your seasonings if needed.
- Step 6: Finally, transfer the dip to a serving dish and serve immediately with your favorite dipping companion!
Ready to get started? You can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Mastering BLT dip: Expert tips, serving suggestions and creative twists
As you get started on this BLT dip recipe, there are several expert tips and suggestions to keep in mind for the best results:
A few preparation considerations
- Start with high-quality bacon from Hatfield for a robust flavor, and choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
- Ensure the bacon is crisply cooked before chopping it into small pieces. This not only enhances the texture but also infuses the dip with a smoky, savory flavor.
- For a creamy and smooth texture, properly blend the cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise until there are no lumps.
- Because your seasoning can make all the difference, be sure to adjust the ratios to taste after mixing all the BLT dip ingredients.
- Allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors to meld and develop fully.
Recipe variations and add-ons to try
For a twist on the classic BLT dip, try adding crumbled blue cheese for a tangy flavor, or mix in diced avocado for creaminess. Jalapeños can also add a spicy kick if you want more heat. Finally, swapping in turkey bacon or adding a layer of chopped hard-boiled eggs is a good way to add new textures and tastes to the dish.
What to serve with BLT dip
Serve your BLT dip with a variety of dippers to cater to all tastes. You might consider:
- Crispy crackers.
- Toasted baguette slices.
- Sturdy chips.
- Fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.
- Pita chips.
- Pretzel sticks.
Answering your BLT dip FAQs
Let's address some of the most commonly asked questions you might have when preparing a BLT dip recipe at home:
Can I use a different type of bacon for this recipe?
The short answer is, absolutely! While traditional cooked bacon will certainly do the trick, you can feel free to experiment with different types — like Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon or Hatfield® No Antibiotics Ever Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon. Remember, each type of bacon will bring a unique taste and texture to the dip, so get creative and find an option that best suits your preferences.
How can I prevent the dip from becoming too watery?
Avoid the nightmare of a watery dip at your gatherings with two key steps:
- First, ensure you drain excess liquid from diced Roma tomatoes before adding them to the mixture. Use a strainer or gently press the tomatoes between layers of paper towels.
- Second, don't forget to pat dry your shredded lettuce to remove excess moisture before incorporating it into the dip.
These simple precautions will ensure your dip stays creamy and delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Fortunately, BLT dip is a fantastic option if you're looking for appetizer recipes to prepare ahead of time. Simply assemble the dip according to the recipe instructions, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This may even give your dip a flavor boost, with more time for the ingredients to meld together and intensify.
How long will the BLT dip last in the fridge?
When stored properly in plastic wrap or an airtight container, BLT dip will typically last for three to four days in the refrigerator. But, we recommend enjoying this dish within the first day or two for optimal freshness and flavor. If you have any leftovers, be sure to consume them promptly to avoid any potential spoilage.
Are there any creative ways to use leftover BLT dip besides serving it as a dip?
When it comes to how you can use leftover BLT dip, the options are practically endless. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- Spread it onto slices of bread or crackers to make flavorful sandwiches or snacks.
- Use it as a topping for baked potatoes, grilled meats or even pizzas.
- Add it as a filling for stuffed mushrooms, jalapeños or bell peppers for a tasty appetizer option.
Elevate your BLT dip experience with Hatfield quality bacon
The versatility and appeal of BLT dip make it a perfect choice for both seasoned and novice chefs aiming to impress. And with high-quality and safe pork products from Hatfield®, you can ensure that the bacon in your dip enhances every bite. Our commitment to quality not only elevates your dish but also enriches mealtime experiences, leaving you and your loved ones truly satisfied.
Preparing for your next get-together? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
