Million Dollar Dip, sometimes called Neiman Marcus Dip, is a classic appetizer that combines rich and indulgent ingredients. Created in the 1950s by Helen Corbitt for the Zodiac Room, a restaurant inside Neiman Marcus in Dallas, Texas, this dip has become a beloved party favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe:
Million Dollar Dip Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, sliced thin and divided
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
- Buttery crackers, bagel chips (for serving)
- Hot sauce (for serving)
Instructions:
- Toast the Almonds:
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, toast the slivered almonds until lightly golden and fragrant (about 5 to 7 minutes). Remove from the pan and allow them to cool.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In the same skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and let it cool to room temperature. Then crumble it into bite-size pieces.
- Prepare the Dip Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until very smooth.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, toasted almonds, cooked bacon, three sliced green onions, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne. Stir until well combined.
- Chill and Serve:
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Garnish with the remaining green onion and serve with buttery crackers, bagel chips, and a side of hot sauce.
Why is it called Million Dollar Dip? The name likely adapted over the years because the rich and indulgent ingredients—cream cheese, bacon, and cheddar cheese—make it taste like a million bucks!
Enjoy this addictive and flavorful dip at your next gathering. It pairs perfectly with crunchy corn chips, buttery crackers, and even smeared on bagels for a fabulous breakfast spread! 🧀🥓🌶️