You know that moment when you bring out a dish at a party and suddenly everyone stops talking? That’s exactly what happened the first time I served my blt dip. It’s like someone bottled up the magic of a classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich and turned it into the most addictive party food ever. The best part? You can serve it chilled for those summer cookouts or bake it until bubbly for cozy winter gatherings. My neighbor actually begged me for the recipe after tasting it at our block party last year – now it’s her go-to for every potluck!
This creamy, tangy dip with crispy bacon bits and fresh veggies disappears faster than you can say “seconds please!” Whether you’re team chilled or team baked (I can never decide), this blt dip brings that beloved sandwich flavor to your snack table in the most delicious way possible. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch – it’s that good.
Why You’ll Love This BLT Dip
Oh my goodness, where do I even start? This blt dip is basically everything you want in a party snack – and then some! First off, it comes together in about 10 minutes flat (15 if you’re chatting while cooking like I always am). No fancy techniques here – just mix, fold, and you’re done. The magic happens when you take that first bite and realize it tastes exactly like your favorite BLT sandwich, but in creamy, dippable form!
Here’s why this recipe has become my party MVP:
- Two-in-one versatility – serve it chilled for summer picnics or bake it warm for game day
- Crowd-pleasing flavors that even picky eaters adore (my nephew who “hates veggies” devours this)
- Easy keto adaptation – just swap regular crackers for cucumber slices
- That irresistible combo of crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and cool ranch dressing
- Leftovers (if you have any!) make the BEST baked potato topping the next day
Seriously, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been asked for this recipe. It’s that good. The first time I made it, my book club forgot to discuss the book because everyone was too busy scooping up seconds!
BLT Dip Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing appetizer. I love how simple the ingredient list is – just pantry staples transformed into something magical!
- 1 cup sour cream – creates that perfect creamy base
- 1 cup mayonnaise – binds everything together beautifully
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz) – adds that signature tang
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled – the star of the show
- 1 cup diced tomatoes – fresh and juicy
- 1 cup shredded lettuce – for that essential crunch
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar (optional) – only needed if baking
That’s all it takes! The ranch seasoning really makes this dip special – it’s my secret weapon. Whether you’re making the chilled version or baking it, these simple ingredients create something truly addictive.
How to Make BLT Dip
Okay friends, let’s get mixing! This blt dip couldn’t be easier to make, and I’ll walk you through every step. Whether you’re craving the cool, refreshing chilled version or the warm, cheesy baked one, I’ve got you covered. The base comes together in about 5 minutes flat – perfect for when you realize guests are arriving soon!
First things first: grab your biggest mixing bowl. I like to use one with plenty of room for folding in all those delicious toppings. The key is to mix the creamy base thoroughly before adding the chunky ingredients – this ensures every bite has that perfect BLT flavor.
For the Chilled BLT Dip
Start by combining the sour cream, mayo, and ranch seasoning in your bowl. Mix it until it’s completely smooth – no lumps allowed! Now gently fold in the bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce. Be careful not to overmix here – you want to keep those tomatoes nice and firm.
Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This chill time lets the flavors really mingle and develop. I like to transfer it to my prettiest serving bowl right before guests arrive – it looks so inviting with all those colorful bits peeking through the creamy base!
For the Baked BLT Dip
Preheat your oven to 350°F while you mix up the base (same as the chilled version). Spread the mixture into a small baking dish – I use my trusty 8×8 Pyrex. Now sprinkle that shredded cheddar evenly over the top. The cheese creates this gorgeous golden crust that makes everyone’s mouth water!
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are bubbly and the cheese is melted to perfection. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes – you want those bubbles but not burnt edges! Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving (trust me, that molten cheese is dangerously hot).
Both versions are absolute crowd-pleasers, but I will say – the baked one disappears fastest at my parties. There’s just something magical about that warm, cheesy, bacon-y goodness!
Tips for the Best BLT Dip
After making this blt dip more times than I can count (seriously, my friends request it for every gathering), I’ve picked up some foolproof tricks to make it absolutely perfect every time. First rule? Always use full-fat sour cream and mayo – trust me, the extra richness makes all the difference! That light stuff just doesn’t give you the same creamy, indulgent texture we’re going for here.
Here are my can’t-live-without tips:
- Bacon is king – I always cook up extra bacon because 1) you can never have too much bacon, and 2) some always mysteriously disappears while I’m prepping
- Drain those tomatoes – give them a quick pat with paper towels so your dip doesn’t get watery
- Mix-ins matter – fold in the lettuce and tomatoes gently at the end to keep everything crisp
- Make ahead magic – the chilled version actually gets better after 2-3 hours in the fridge
- Storage smarts – leftovers keep great in an airtight container for 3 days (though they never last that long in my house!)
Oh! And here’s my secret weapon – I like to reserve a little bacon and tomato to sprinkle on top right before serving. It makes the dip look extra fancy and gives that first bite some serious wow factor. Your guests will think you spent hours on it!
BLT Dip Variations
One of my favorite things about this blt dip is how easily you can switch it up! When I’m feeling fancy, I’ll mash in some ripe avocado for extra creaminess – it gives the dip this gorgeous green hue and adds healthy fats. My keto friends go nuts when I serve it with cucumber rounds instead of crackers. And don’t even get started on cheese options – swap the cheddar for pepper jack if you like a little kick!
Here are my go-to twists:
- Keto version – use full-fat everything and serve with bell pepper strips or pork rinds
- Avocado boost – mix in 1/2 cup mashed avocado for extra richness
- Cheese swap – try smoked gouda or sharp cheddar for deeper flavor
- Spicy kick – add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños
- Greek yogurt – sub half the mayo for tangy Greek yogurt
The possibilities are endless – that’s what makes this dip so perfect for any occasion. Just last week, I made a buffalo chicken version by stirring in shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. My book club still hasn’t stopped talking about it!
Serving Suggestions for BLT Dip
Oh, the fun part – deciding what to dunk into this glorious blt dip! I always set out a variety because everyone has their favorite. My go-to is toasted baguette slices – they’re sturdy enough to scoop up all that creamy goodness without breaking. For parties, I arrange different dippers in sections of a big platter so guests can mix and match.
Here’s what I love serving with it:
- Crostini – toast thin baguette slices with a drizzle of olive oil
- Pita chips – their slight saltiness pairs perfectly
- Crackers – sturdy wheat crackers work best
- Veggie sticks – cucumber, bell peppers, and celery for crunch
- Tortilla chips – because everything’s better with chips!
Pro tip: If you’re serving the baked version, keep some extra bacon crumbles nearby for sprinkling. It takes the presentation to the next level! This dip pairs beautifully with other party favorites too – I love putting it out with my famous spinach artichoke dip for the ultimate snack spread.
BLT Dip FAQs
I get asked these questions all the time at parties – here are the answers straight from my dip-stained recipe card:
Can I make BLT dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! The chilled version actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. Just wait to add the lettuce until right before serving so it stays crisp. For the baked version, you can mix everything except the cheese topping a day in advance, then pop it in the oven when guests arrive.
How long does BLT dip last in the fridge?
Your creamy BLT dip will stay fresh for about 3 days in an airtight container. The tomatoes might get a bit softer, but the flavors actually deepen beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving leftovers – if there are any!
Can I freeze bacon lettuce tomato dip?
I don’t recommend freezing the finished dip – the dairy can separate and the veggies get mushy. But here’s my freezer hack: mix just the sour cream, mayo and ranch seasoning, then freeze that base. Thaw overnight in the fridge and fold in fresh bacon, tomatoes and lettuce when ready to serve.
Is BLT dip keto-friendly?
It sure can be! Use full-fat sour cream and mayo, skip any sugary additives in the ranch mix, and serve with low-carb dippers like cucumber slices or pork rinds. At just 2g net carbs per serving, this makes a perfect keto party appetizer.
Nutritional Information
Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop on what you’re diving into with this blt dip! Keep in mind these numbers can vary based on your specific ingredients (especially that bacon – thick-cut vs regular makes a difference!). A typical 1/4 cup serving clocks in around 180 calories, with 16g of that glorious fat (hey, it’s party food!), 5g protein, and just 2g carbs if you’re counting. The ranch seasoning does add some sodium, so if you’re watching that, you might want to use a low-sodium version. Remember – everything in moderation… except maybe seconds of this dip!
Share Your BLT Dip Experience
Okay, now I need to hear from you! Did you go for the chilled version or the baked one? Any fun twists you added? Leave a comment below – I read every single one (while nibbling on leftover dip, of course!). And don’t forget to rate the recipe – those stars make my day! If you snapped a photo of your creation, I’d love to see it. You can find me on Pinterest for more drool-worthy recipe ideas – just search for Kitchen User. Happy dipping, friends!
PrintBLT Dip
A creamy dip that tastes just like the classic BLT sandwich, perfect for parties and gatherings. Enjoy it chilled or baked, with options for keto adaptations and crostini ideas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for baked version)
- Total Time: 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook or baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for baked version)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
- Fold in crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
- For chilled version: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- For baked version: Spread mixture in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve with crackers, crostini, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
- For keto version, use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise, and serve with low-carb veggies.
- Add extra bacon for a smokier flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg