Million Dollar Dip

Think of million dollar dip as the lazy person’s cheese ball: It hits similarly, but you serve it in dip form instead of pressing it into a ball. The format helps the whole recipe come together in just 15 minutes, and it’s a slam dunk crowd-pleaser for any type of gathering.

In this recipe, the crunchiness of the almonds and bacon lends a nice contrast to the creaminess of the dip. And the sharpness of the extra-sharp Cheddar makes for major flavor dimension sure to go fast at any potluck or picnic, served alongside crackers or crostini.

Million Dollar Dip Ingredients

To make million dollar dip, you’ll need:

• Thick-cut bacon: This adds a lovely smoky flavor to the dip and good crunch.
• Mayonnaise: Up the creamy factor and make it a bit more dippable with mayo.
• Chive-and-onion cream cheese: Instead of plain cream cheese, we like the additional layer of flavor from this option.
• Extra-sharp cheddar cheese: Tangy and salty, extra-sharp is perfect for this high-flavor dip.
• Slivered almonds: You could use chopped nuts, but the slivered almonds aren't too crunchy, which is great for a dip you'll be eating a lot.
• Scallions: For a final touch of something fresh.

How To Make Million Dollar Dip

The full recipe for this fun dip is below, but here's a brief recap.

• Step 1: Cook the bacon. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium, and add the bacon. Cook while stirring occasionally until the bacon is crispy and browned. Remove it from the heat and use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the oil.
• Step 2: Combine mayo and cream cheese. Next, stir together the mayonnaise and cream cheese to combine. If the cream cheese is softened, you can do this by hand. Otherwise, you might need a hand mixer.
• Step 3: Add remaining ingredients. Fold in the bacon, cheese, almonds, and scallions. Let chill until ready to serve.

What To Serve With Million Dollar Dip

Serve million dollar dip with Ritz crackers, pita chips, crostinis—or any other dipping options you can dream up.

How To Store Million Dollar Dip

Serve this dip immediately after making it, or cover it and refrigerate for up to three days.

Because it stores well for several days in the fridge, this recipe also works as a make-ahead dish. If preparing in advance, you can add some fresh scallions on top to freshen up the dish before serving.

Cooking Tips for Million Dollar Dip

If you really want to save time in a pinch, it’s OK to use bacon bits instead of freshly cooked bacon in this recipe—but it’s not advisable for the best flavor and texture.

You could also make your own chive and onion cream cheese if preferred (or if you can't find the pre-made stuff in the store), but the packaged version is just as good and makes for an effective recipe shortcut.

Why Is It Called Million Dollar Dip?

This recipe is ultra-rich, thick, and indulgent—which is how it gets its name, million dollar dip. 

More Easy Dip and Spread Recipes

• Baked Goat Cheese Spread With Pepper Jelly
• Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
• Southwest Black-Eyed Pea Dip
• Warm Spinach Sweet Onion Dip With Country Ham
• Queso Fundido With Mushrooms and Chilis
• Smoky Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

Additional reporting by Alesandra Dubin.