Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Dip is a hearty, flavorful appetizer that combines all the best parts of a classic bacon cheeseburger with a smoky bourbon BBQ twist. This creamy, cheesy dip is loaded with ground beef, crispy bacon, tangy barbecue sauce, and a touch of bourbon for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for game day or any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with flavor: It captures the taste of a smoky bacon cheeseburger with every bite.
- Party-perfect: This dip is a guaranteed hit for any crowd.
- Customizable: Adjust the level of smokiness, sweetness, or spice to your liking.
- Comfort food at its finest: Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent—what’s not to love?
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- Cream cheese
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- BBQ sauce
- Bourbon
- Diced tomatoes (optional)
- Green onions (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Prepare the base: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, BBQ sauce, and bourbon until smooth.
- Combine the ingredients: Fold in the cooked ground beef, half of the shredded cheeses, diced tomatoes (if using), and half of the crumbled bacon.
- Assemble the dip: Spread the mixture into a baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve warm with chips, pretzels, or toasted baguette slices.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 8-10 as an appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicier dip: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Different cheese options: Try pepper jack, Colby, or gouda for unique flavor combinations.
- No bourbon: Skip the bourbon or replace it with a splash of apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
- Vegetarian version: Use plant-based ground “beef” and omit the bacon.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
2. Can I skip the bourbon?
Yes, you can omit the bourbon entirely or replace it with apple cider vinegar or liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor.
3. What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce—sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties all work well.
4. Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through.
5. Can I freeze this dip?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
6. What can I serve with this dip?
Serve with tortilla chips, pretzels, crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies like celery and carrots.
7. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a lighter option that works well in this recipe.
8. How do I make this dip dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese alternatives. Adjust seasonings to taste.
9. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or even spinach can be added for extra flavor and texture.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish to serve a bigger crowd.
Conclusion
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Dip is the ultimate indulgent appetizer, bringing together the smoky, savory, and cheesy flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in dip form. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in, this dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Serve it warm and watch it disappear!
Print
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Dip is the ultimate party dip, loaded with bold flavors of smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, gooey cheese, and a hint of bourbon. It’s like your favorite burger in a creamy, irresistible form! Perfect for game day or any gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional, but recommended)
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (60 g) pickles, finely diced (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Prepare the dip base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the flavors:
- Stir in the cooked ground beef, crumbled bacon (reserve some for garnish), BBQ sauce, and bourbon. Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing well.
- Assemble the dip:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish or an oven-safe skillet.
- Bake the dip:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with the reserved bacon, diced pickles, and chopped green onions.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, toasted bread slices, or fresh veggies.
Notes
- Bourbon Substitute: If you prefer not to use alcohol, omit the bourbon and add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- This dip can be made ahead and baked just before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.