Loaded Baked Potato Dip

This loaded baked potato chip dip transforms all those classic baked potato toppings into an irresistible, creamy dip that will have everyone gathered around the appetizer table. Perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing snack that delivers big on comfort food flavors.

I first made this dip for a last-minute Super Bowl party when I was scrambling for an appetizer idea. It was such a hit that guests were literally scraping the dish clean with chips and asking for the recipe before halftime.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Provides the rich, creamy base that holds everything together
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and helps create that authentic baked potato flavor
• Green onions: Bring a mild, fresh bite that balances the richness
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates that classic melty, gooey texture everyone loves
• Bacon: Adds smoky, savory crunch that makes this dip absolutely irresistible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the base:

Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until completely smooth and blended. Make sure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for the smoothest result without any lumps.

Create the mixture:

Fold in most of the green onions, half the cheddar cheese, and most of the bacon bits. This creates layers of flavor throughout the dip while saving some toppings to create a beautiful presentation.

Transfer and prepare for cooking:

Spread the entire mixture into a pie plate or similar baking dish. Choose a dish that will allow the dip to have some depth rather than being spread too thin, which helps maintain creaminess.

Add final cheese layer:

Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese evenly across the top. This creates that gorgeous melty cheese layer that makes the dip so appealing and delicious.

Cook until hot and bubbly:

Either microwave covered for about 5 minutes or bake uncovered at 375°F for approximately 20 minutes. The dip should be completely heated through with melted cheese on top.

Garnish and serve:

Top with the reserved green onions and remaining bacon bits right before serving. This adds fresh color, flavor, and texture contrast to the warm, creamy dip.

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The secret to this dip's amazing flavor is using real bacon rather than bacon bits from a jar. I learned this from my grandmother who insisted that properly cooked bacon makes everything taste better. She would make this dip for family gatherings, and the smell of bacon cooking would draw everyone to the kitchen before the dip was even assembled.

Make It Ahead

This dip is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble the entire dip up to a day before serving, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it until hot and bubbly. If you're taking it to a gathering, you can even bake it at home and transport it in an insulated carrier to keep it warm. Just save some of the bacon and green onion toppings to add right before serving for the freshest presentation.

Cold vs Hot Serving Options

While I personally prefer this dip served warm with the cheese all melty and gooey, many people enjoy it served cold as well. For a cold version, simply mix all ingredients together and refrigerate until serving. The flavors will actually develop and intensify as it chills. The texture will be thicker and more like a traditional chip dip when served cold. Either way you choose to serve it, be sure to have plenty of sturdy potato chips for dipping as this is a thick, hearty dip.

Variations To Try

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also customize this dip with other baked potato toppings you love. Try stirring in some roasted garlic, swapping out cheddar for pepper jack cheese, or adding herbs like chives or dill. For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese and light sour cream. You could even add steamed and finely chopped broccoli for a broccoli cheddar potato version that kids surprisingly love too.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use reduced-fat ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese for a lighter version. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.

→ Can this dip be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients beforehand and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Cook just before serving for the best results.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, place the dip in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it in short intervals until warmed through.

→ Can I serve this dip cold?

Yes, this dip can be enjoyed cold. Simply mix all the ingredients and serve straight from the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with the dip?

Potato chips are the classic pairing, but you can also serve it with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables like carrots and celery.