Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon, the Pioneer Woman’s Million Dollar Dip is a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
You’ll love how simple it is to make with just a handful of ingredients: cream cheese, cheddar, mayonnaise, bacon, almonds, and green onions.
One trick I’ve found is to toast the almonds before mixing them in, which adds an incredible depth of flavor.
The name “Million Dollar Dip” comes from its rich, decadent taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
I enjoy this recipe because it’s quick to prepare and tastes fantastic even when made in advance.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a delicious snack, this dip is a must-try!
How to Make Pioneer Woman Million Dollar Dip
Ingredients
- 8 slices Bacon
- 1 cup Slivered Almonds
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 8 oz. Cream Cheese (softened)
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 4 Green Onions (sliced)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
Place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
Step 2:
Toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
Remove them from the heat and let them cool.
Step 3:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and softened cream cheese until smooth and well blended.
Step 4:
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
Step 5:
Crumble the cooled bacon into the bowl and add the toasted almonds. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
Step 6:
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
This recipe serves about 8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes.
Cooking time: 25 minutes.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients like green onions and garlic make a big difference in the flavor.
Pre-Cooked Bacon
If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked bacon can save time.
Just heat it up slightly before crumbling into the mix.
Almond Substitutes
If you prefer a different nut, try using pecans or walnuts in place of the almonds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip with crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables for variety.
Make Ahead of Time
This dip can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
Just give it a good stir before serving.
What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Million Dollar Dip
Crackers
Serve this dip with classic buttery crackers such as Ritz.
The crisp texture pairs perfectly with the creamy dip.
Corn Chips
Corn chips add a nice crunch and are just the right thickness for this hearty dip.
Tortilla chips are another great option.
Sliced Vegetables
Opt for fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, or cucumber rounds.
They add a refreshing contrast to the rich dip.
Pretzels
Pretzels provide a salty, crunchy alternative that pairs nicely with the creamy and savory flavors.
Try both hard pretzels and soft pretzel bites.
Apple Slices
For a unique twist, serve with sweet apple slices.
The sweetness of the apples complements the savory ingredients in the dip.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to try different types of cheese in this dip.
Different Cheeses
Experiment with pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Monterey Jack offers a milder option.
Protein Swaps
If you want a change from bacon, use smoked turkey or ham.
Vegetarian? Skip the meat entirely or add diced vegetables like bell peppers.
Nut Alternatives
Walnuts or pecans are suitable substitutes for almonds if you prefer.
Allergies? Replace nuts entirely with sunflower seeds or omit them.
Greens and Herbs
Instead of green onions, chives or dill can provide a fresh taste.
Mayo Options
Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
Adjust seasoning to your taste if substituting mayonnaise with yogurt.
Substitute Miracle Whip for a tangier flavor.
These variations let you tailor the dip to your preferences.
How to Store Leftover Million Dollar Dip
To keep your leftover Million Dollar Dip fresh and tasty, follow these simple steps.
Use an Airtight Container
Transfer the dip to an airtight container.
This helps maintain its flavor and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
Also, this prevents the dip from drying out.
Refrigeration is Key
Store the airtight container in the refrigerator.
Make sure the temperature is set to below 40°F.
Most dips, including this one, keep well for about 3-4 days.
Labeling and Dating
Label the container with the date you made it.
This helps you keep track of its freshness.
Sometimes it’s easy to forget how long it’s been in the fridge.
Keep it Chilled During Serving
When serving leftover dip, keep it chilled.
Use a colder pad underneath or store small portions at a time.
This practice maintains the dip’s quality throughout your gathering.
Avoid Double Dipping
Double-dipping can introduce bacteria.
Always use a clean utensil to scoop the dip.
This keeps your leftovers fresh and safe to eat.
Following these tips will help you store and enjoy your Million Dollar Dip safely and deliciously.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Raw Almonds
Always toast the almonds.
Raw almonds lack the depth of flavor that toasted ones bring.
Toast them until they are golden brown and fragrant.
Skipping the Chill Time
Don’t skip the chilling step.
Chilling allows the flavors to meld together.
Make sure to refrigerate for at least one hour.
Overmixing the Ingredients
Gently fold in the ingredients.
Overmixing can break down the texture of the cheese and bacon.
You want a creamy consistency, not mush.
Not Using Full-Fat Ingredients
Use full-fat mayonnaise and cream cheese.
Low-fat versions can make the dip watery.
The full-fat versions provide a richer texture.
Forgetting to Season
Don’t forget the seasoning.
A pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne is crucial.
It enhances the overall taste of the dip.
Pioneer Woman Million Dollar Dip
Ingredients
- 8 slices Bacon
- 1 cup Slivered Almonds
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 8 oz. Cream Cheese softened
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 4 Green Onions sliced
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
- Toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove them from the heat and let them cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and softened cream cheese until smooth and well blended.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
- Crumble the cooled bacon into the bowl and add the toasted almonds. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
