Layered BLT Dip
This Layered BLT Dip is a quick and easy appetizer that brings together all the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato flavors in one creamy, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, it’s easy to make and can be served with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies.
A Quick Look At The Recipe
- ⏲️Ready In: 15 Minutes
- 👪Serves: 9
- 🍽 Calories: 501 kcals
- 📋Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, seasonings, bacon, lettuce, and tomato.
- 📖 Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, nut-free, and vegetarian.
- ⭐ Why You’ll Love It: It’s a fresh, creamy, and crunchy chilled dip that’s always a hit at parties.
SUMMARIZE & SAVE THIS CONTENT ON
This is my go-to best BLT dip recipe for parties, and literally everyone asks for it. It has all the classic BLT flavor everyone loves, but in a creamy, scoopable version that’s easy to serve, similar to crowd-pleasers like my beer cheese recipe or Hawaiian roll meatball sliders.
It’s also a great make-ahead recipe, which means less stress when you’re hosting. You can prep it in advance, keep it chilled, and pull it out when guests arrive, leaving you more time to actually enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Jump to:
Why The Recipe Works💭
Easy ingredients: You probably already have everything on hand you need to make this cold BLT dip recipe, and the hardest part of getting it together is cooking the bacon.
Meal prep: You can make the bacon, lettuce, and tomato dip up to a day in advance to save yourself time in the kitchen.
Versatile: Though the dip makes the BEST appetizer, I’ve also been known to pair it with something like air fryer steak tips for a super simple, weeknight dinner before baseball practice.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to make the BLT Dip:
- Mayonnaise: This gives the dip an insanely creamy base. Though many recipes are made with cream cheese, I find this version a little lighter.
- Ranch Dressing: Gives a zesty, flavorful punch with its tangy and herby notes.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Any cheese can actually be used here, but sharp cheddar is a classic (it’s what’s used the most in my longhorn mac and cheese recipe). If you’re feeling fun, try a fiesta blend.
- Bacon: The kind you choose may change the texture of the party dip a bit. Whichever one you use, just make sure it’s cooked crispy.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Tools you’ll need
Before starting the recipe, you’ll want to have all your kitchen essentials ready. I recommend having the following items:
Flavors To Try
Customizing your BLT dip recipe can make it even more enjoyable and tailored to your taste. Here are some easy ways to give your dip a personal touch:
- Cream cheese dip or yogurt: Replace the mayonnaise with cream cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt for a different kind of creamy texture. If using cream cheese, you’ll need to thin it with half mayonnaise or sour cream.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate diced avocados for a creamy texture or chopped green onions for an added crunch and flavor. Bell peppers can also add sweetness and color to the mix. This is my go-to when I’m making this dip into a full-on dinner.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier version, mix in shredded chicken or cooked, ground turkey (leftover from these air fryer turkey spring rolls). This will make it more filling and add a new flavor dimension while still keeping that classic BLT essence.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the mix if you enjoy a little heat.
How To Make a Layered BLT Dip
Step 1: Add the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder to a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir well.
Step 4: Spread the mixture into an 8×8 baking dish and layer on the lettuce.
Step 5: Evenly distribute the chopped tomato, followed by the bacon.
Step 6: Top the dip with the remaining cheese and any extra bacon pieces. Serve.
Note
Let the dip chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive taste. If you’re preparing the dip for a gathering, you can make it a day in advance.
Helpful Hints
Pro tip: Use Fresh Ingredients
Make sure that your ingredients are as fresh as possible, especially the lettuce and tomatoes. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also improve the overall texture of the dip.
Here are some helpful hints for making the BLT dip that can ensure great results:
- Cook bacon crispy. When using bacon, cook it until it’s crispy before adding it to the dip. This will prevent it from becoming soggy and help maintain that satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Drain the tomatoes: Try to drain the tomatoes once chopped as much as possible so they don’t make the dip watery. Patting the lettuce dry helps with this as well.
- Adjust the creaminess: You can adjust the creaminess of the dip to your personal preference by varying the amounts of mayonnaise and ranch dressing. Adding a bit more ranch can enhance the flavor while maintaining a creamy texture
How To Store It
To store the BLT dip, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness. Make sure to seal the container tightly to prevent any odors from the fridge from affecting the dip’s flavor.
Make It Ahead: Preparing your dip in advance can save time on the day of your gathering. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. I personally like to wait to layer the tomatoes, bacon, and final layer of cheese until just before serving.
How To Serve It
This chilled dip can be served with a variety of dippers like crispy tortilla chips, crackers, or even sliced baguette. We also enjoy it in the following ways:
- Paired with hard vegetables like carrots and celery for dipping.
- Spooned into mini half peppers for bite-sized snacks (this is a great one to bring TO a sports game).
- Paired with shrimp fruit salad or Japanese teriyaki edamame for a snackable dinner.
Layered BLT Dip FAQ
More Easy Family Recipes
If you tried this Layered BLT Dip or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it goes!
BLT Dip
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups mayonnaise
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups lettuce finely chopped
- 1 cup tomatoes seeded and diced
- 8 slices bacon cooked and chopped
Instructions
Mix the Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well blended.
Add Cheese:
- Fold in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly incorporated.
Spread the Mixture:
- Transfer the mixture to an 8×8-inch baking dish (or similar) and spread it out evenly.
Layer Toppings:
- Sprinkle the chopped lettuce over the dip.
- Add the diced tomatoes on top.
- Finish with the chopped bacon and the remaining 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar.
Serve:
- Enjoy your BLT Dip with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies!
Notes
Nutrition
Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Medium bowl
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
My go-to recipe for all thigns potlucks. It’s simple and always a crowd pleaser.