BLT Dip Recipe in 10 Minutes

This BLT Dip Recipe transforms everyone’s favorite sandwich into an irresistible party appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “bacon.” I’ve watched this creamy, flavor-packed dip vanish from countless potluck tables, leaving folks asking for the recipe every single time.

Growing up in Nonna Betty’s kitchen, Sunday gatherings always meant experimenting with new ways to serve beloved flavors. I remember the first time Betty tried turning a BLT into a dip – she was skeptical that all those fresh, crispy sandwich components could work together in a bowl. But one taste of that creamy, bacon-studded mixture had the whole family gathered around the kitchen island, dipping everything from crackers to celery sticks. The sound of crunching lettuce mixed with satisfied “mmm’s” filled the air, and Betty knew she’d stumbled onto something special. That dip became a staple at every family barbecue and holiday spread. Time to get your mixing bowl ready!

What Makes This BLT Dip So Special

Betty always believed that the best recipes take familiar flavors and present them in surprising new ways. This BLT dip recipe does exactly that – capturing every element of the classic sandwich in a creamy, shareable format that’s perfect for entertaining.

• Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand
• Comes together in just 10 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings
• Delivers that authentic BLT flavor combination everyone craves
• Works beautifully served chilled for summer or baked and bubbly for winter
• Adapts easily to different dietary preferences and serving styles
• Creates the perfect balance of creamy base with crispy, fresh textures

I’ve served this dip at everything from casual backyard barbecues to elegant dinner parties, and it never fails to be the star of the appetizer table. There’s something magical about how those familiar BLT flavors translate into dip form – it’s comfort food meets party food at its finest.

Ingredient Spotlight

Sour cream forms the tangy, creamy base that mimics the cool contrast of mayonnaise in a traditional BLT sandwich. I always choose full-fat sour cream for the richest texture and most authentic flavor.

Mayonnaise works alongside the sour cream to create that signature sandwich spread flavor we all know and love. Betty always preferred real mayonnaise over light versions for the best consistency.

Ranch seasoning mix adds the perfect blend of herbs and spices that complement the bacon and tomato flavors beautifully. In my kitchen, I prefer the classic Hidden Valley packet for consistent results every time, just like in my Hidden Valley Ranch Dip Recipe.

Cooked bacon brings that essential smoky, salty crunch that makes BLTs so irresistible. I always cook extra bacon because some mysteriously disappears during the prep process – it’s practically a kitchen law.

Diced tomatoes provide the fresh, juicy element that balances the rich creaminess. Betty’s tip was always to pat them completely dry with paper towels to prevent a watery dip.

Shredded lettuce adds that crucial fresh crunch and authentic BLT flavor. I fold this in gently just before serving to maintain maximum crispness.

Shredded cheddar cheese makes the perfect golden topping for the baked version, adding an extra layer of richness that transforms this BLT dip recipe into pure comfort food.

How to Make BLT Dip Step by Step

Step 1. I start by combining the sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning in a large mixing bowl, whisking until completely smooth and no seasoning clumps remain.

Step 2. Betty always emphasized gently folding in the bacon pieces first, allowing them to distribute evenly throughout the creamy base before adding the more delicate ingredients.

Step 3. Next, I carefully fold in the diced tomatoes, making sure they’re well-distributed but not mashed or broken up during the mixing process.

Step 4. For the chilled version, I add the shredded lettuce last and fold it in with the lightest touch possible to preserve its crispness.

Step 5. If serving chilled, I cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6. For the baked version, I transfer the mixture (without lettuce) to a greased 8×8 baking dish and top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7. I bake the hot version at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, watching carefully after 15 minutes to ensure the cheese melts and bubbles without burning.

Step 8. After years of making this recipe, I’ve learned that letting the baked version cool for exactly 5 minutes creates the perfect serving temperature – hot enough to be comforting but cool enough to enjoy immediately.

Keeping This BLT Dip Fresh

This BLT dip recipe keeps beautifully when stored properly, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy hosts. I typically store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, though it rarely lasts that long in my house.

Betty’s storage method involves keeping the lettuce separate if you’re making this ahead of time. Mix the creamy base with bacon and tomatoes up to a day in advance, then fold in fresh lettuce just before serving for maximum crispness and visual appeal.

For the best texture when serving leftovers, I bring the chilled dip to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. The baked version reheats beautifully in a 300°F oven for 10-12 minutes, covered with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. I don’t recommend freezing this dip since the dairy base can separate and the vegetables become mushy when thawed.

Perfect Partners for BLT Dip

• Toasted baguette slices provide the perfect sturdy base that won’t break under the dip’s creamy weight, just like good sandwich bread
• Pita chips offer a neutral flavor that lets the BLT elements shine while providing satisfying crunch
• Cucumber rounds create a fresh, low-carb option that echoes the sandwich’s vegetable components beautifully
• Bell pepper strips add colorful crunch and a slightly sweet flavor that complements the bacon perfectly
• Sturdy wheat crackers provide the hearty base that reminds you of good sandwich bread in every bite
• Celery sticks bring that classic BLT crispness while their mild flavor doesn’t compete with the dip

I love serving this with my Whipped Feta Dip with Honey and Herbs for a beautiful appetizer spread that offers both creamy and tangy options. The combination creates that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and satisfying that keeps everyone coming back for more. For heartier gatherings, pair it alongside Air Fryer Baked Potatoes topped with this dip for an amazing loaded potato experience.

FAQs

• Can I make this BLT dip ahead of time? I recommend mixing the creamy base with bacon and tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, but always add the lettuce just before serving to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant color.
• What’s the best way to prevent watery dip? Betty’s solution is always patting the diced tomatoes completely dry with paper towels and using full-fat dairy products, which hold their texture better than low-fat alternatives.
• Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Many home cooks find success with turkey bacon, though I recommend cooking it until extra crispy to achieve that authentic BLT texture and flavor profile.
• How do I keep the lettuce from wilting in the dip? The best approach I’ve tested is adding lettuce in small batches as you serve, rather than mixing it all in at once, especially for longer parties or gatherings.
• Can I make this recipe keto-friendly? To keep carbs low, simply serve with cucumber rounds, Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries, or bell pepper strips instead of crackers or bread-based dippers.