Name: Trisha Yearwood’s Charleston Cheese Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened; 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Monterey jack cheese; 2 green onions, finely chopped; Dash cayenne pepper; 10 Ritz crackers, crushed; 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Trisha Yearwood’s Charleston Cheese Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. This creamy and cheesy dip is a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your guests coming back for more. It has become a staple in my kitchen and never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey jack cheese creates a rich and flavorful dip.
The simple and quick prep time makes this dish perfect for last-minute gatherings.
It can be easily doubled or tripled for larger crowds, making it ideal for parties and potlucks.

Ingredient Notes:

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and tang to the dip.
Cream cheese: Provides a smooth and velvety texture.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a bold and intense flavor.
Monterey jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a mild creamy taste.
Green onions: Offer a fresh and slightly oniony kick.
Cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle heat to balance the richness.
Ritz crackers: The perfect crunchy topping.
Bacon: Adds a savory and smoky flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey jack cheese, green onions, and cayenne pepper.
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle with crushed Ritz crackers and bacon.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve hot with crackers, chips, or veggies.

Helpful Tips:

For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the dip.
Swap the bacon for cooked and crumbled sausage for a different flavor profile.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and meltability.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions:

This dip pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips, crunchy vegetables like celery and carrots, or even toasted bread slices. For drinks, serve with a cold beer or a refreshing white wine.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat the dip, place it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Stir well before serving to redistribute the cheeses and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this dip? It is not recommended to freeze this dip as the texture may become grainy upon thawing.
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.
How can I make this dip vegetarian? Simply omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits for a meat-free version.

Conclusion:

Trisha Yearwood’s Charleston Cheese Dip is a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Its creamy and cheesy goodness will have everyone asking for the recipe. Give it a try and watch it disappear before your eyes!