Irish Cheddar & Bacon Dip

Name: Irish Cheddar & Bacon Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces Irish cheddar cheese, grated; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Event Menu Recipes

I absolutely love this Irish Cheddar & Bacon Dip! It's creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky flavor from the crispy bacon. Whenever I serve it at gatherings, it quickly becomes a family favorite. What makes this dip so special is the rich, sharp taste of the Irish cheddar, which perfectly complements the saltiness of the bacon. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, taking just a few simple steps, and can be prepared in advance. Trust me, you’ll want to dip everything in it!

Created by

Monicas

Last updated on 2026-02-18T16:02:19.112Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was hosting a game night and wanted to impress my friends with something indulgent. The combination of Irish cheddar and crispy bacon caught my eye, and I knew it would be a hit. I roasted the bacon until it was perfectly crispy, then mixed it with melted cheese and a touch of cream. The aroma filled my kitchen, and my guests couldn't wait to dig in.

Each bite is an explosion of flavor, creamy yet with a wonderful texture that gets everyone reaching for more. The secret to a silky dip is to let the cheese melt slowly, stirring constantly, ensuring everything blends together well. I served it warm with toasted bread and crunchy veggies, and it vanished in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with crunchy dippers
Rich flavor from the combination of Irish cheddar and smoky bacon
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal party dish
Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality Irish cheddar is crucial for achieving the rich and sharp flavor this dip is known for. Look for an aged cheddar, which will bring a deeper taste to the dish. The bacon should also be of good quality; thick-cut bacon tends to have more meat and less fat, resulting in a more satisfying crunch when cooked until crispy.

Cream cheese and sour cream add to the creamy texture of the dip while helping the flavors meld together. If you're looking for a slight twist, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the sour cream; it'll maintain the creaminess while adding a bit of tang. Just be cautious with the amount, as Greek yogurt can be thicker.

Perfecting the Dip

When mixing the cheese ingredients, it’s best to use a hand mixer or stand mixer to ensure everything is smooth and well incorporated. If using a fork or whisk, take care to fully blend the cream cheese with the other ingredients. Any lumps can result in uneven texture after baking, where some areas may not achieve that desired creaminess.

When you bake the dip, keep an eye on it as ovens can vary. You want the surface to be bubbly and the top slightly golden, which typically takes around 20 minutes. If you notice browning starting too early, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to heat through.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Irish Cheddar & Bacon Dip is best served warm for optimal flavor and texture. If you're making it ahead of time, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly. When you're ready to enjoy, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes to ensure it's heated through and the top is bubbly.

For serving, pair the dip with an array of dippers such as sliced vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, or crispy breadsticks. I also love using homemade crostini, which adds a lovely crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some fresh herbs or a dollop of sweet chili sauce for a twist in flavor!

Ingredients

For the Dip

8 ounces Irish cheddar cheese, grated
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan, drain on paper towels, and crumble when cool.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Irish cheddar, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Add the Bacon

Fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish. Mix until evenly distributed.

Bake the Dip

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chives and the reserved bacon. Serve warm with toasted bread and vegetables.

Pro Tips

Make this dip ahead of time—just prepare it and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake and serve. It also tastes great chilled if you have leftovers!

Tips for Adjusting Flavors

If you prefer a spicier version of this dip, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture before baking. This can elevate the flavor profile and give it a delightful kick without overwhelming the rich cheese and smoky bacon.

Alternatively, if you enjoy a smoky flavor but want to keep it lighter, opt for turkey bacon. While it won't provide the same fat content, a high-quality turkey bacon can still deliver a satisfying crunch and pairs well with the sharpness of the Irish cheddar.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering and need to scale up this dip, simply double or triple the ingredients proportionally. Just ensure you use a larger baking dish, as crowding the dip can prevent it from cooking evenly. For larger quantities, it might take an additional 5-10 minutes to bake so keep an eye on it.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, you can halve the recipe. This dip is versatile, and you can still enjoy all its flavors without having a large quantity leftover. Just remember to adjust your baking dish accordingly for the best results.

Storage Suggestions

Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When rewarming, cover it with foil to retain moisture and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating and creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked dip before it’s placed in the oven. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed for a delicious party-ready dip!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While Irish cheddar is recommended for its sharp flavor, you can substitute with any sharp cheese of your choice.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving.

→ What should I serve with the dip?

It's delicious with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables like carrots and celery.