bacon blue cheese dip

This warm and flavorful cheese dip can be prepared in advance, and when it’s time to serve, just pop it in the oven for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite buttery crackers or on sliced bagette bread.

INGREDIENTS:

8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup half-and-half or whipping cream

4 oz crumbled blue cheese

2 tablespoons chives (chopped)

salt and pepper

HOW I MADE IT:

Cook the bacon until browned and crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain. Pour off all but about 1 tsp bacon grease, add minced garlic to pan, and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Beat cream cheese in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the bacon (reserve a small amount for garnish), garlic, cream, blue cheese, and chives. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon into a lightly greased casserole dish.

Just before serving, pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Garnish with reserved bacon and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serve with crackers or bagette slices.