**Bacon Horseradish Dip Recipe: A Spicy and Savory Delight**
Looking to spice up your party snacks or add a bold flavor to your next gathering? Try this Bacon Horseradish Dip! This recipe is packed with rich flavors from crispy bacon and zesty horseradish, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps for the perfect dip.
### Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp prepared horseradish (mild to strong, depending on your preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
### Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Serving dish
### Instructions
1. **Preheat Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an optional step but helps to keep the bacon crispy.
2. **Cook Bacon**: If not using cooked and crumbled bacon from the pantry, cook a few slices of thick-cut bacon in a pan until crisp. Drain on paper towels and roughly chop or break into small pieces. Set aside to cool.
3. **Mix Cream Cheese**: In a large mixing bowl, use a spatula to beat the softened cream cheese until it's smooth and creamy.
4. **Add Mayonnaise**: Gradually stir in the mayonnaise while continuing to mix with the spatula. This step ensures that everything is well combined but not too watery.
5. **Incorporate Bacon and Horseradish**: Add the crumbled bacon and horseradish to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dip. Be sure to taste at this point; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. **Transfer to Serving Dish**: Pour the mixture into a serving dish. If desired, you can sprinkle additional crumbled bacon on top for added texture and flavor.
7. **Optional Baking Step**: Place the dip in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until it starts to warm through slightly but remains creamy. This step is optional; if skipped, simply serve at room temperature.
8. **Serve**: Remove from the oven (if used) and let cool slightly before serving. Serve with crackers, veggies, or chips for dipping.
### Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can mix in finely chopped chives or parsley.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently if needed.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be able to create a delicious Bacon Horseradish Dip that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the process of mixing rich flavors and creating a delightful treat!