Hot Mushroom and Bacon Dip Recipe

Welcome to the delightful world of dips, where comfort meets flavor in every creamy, savory bite. Today, we are exploring the irresistibly delectable Hot Mushroom and Bacon Dip, a timeless favorite that has graced gatherings and parties with its rich, savory goodness. This recipe, originally discovered at a “Tupperware” party many years ago, has become a staple for those seeking a quick yet indulgent appetizer. Despite its rich ingredients, pairing this dip with an array of fresh, crunchy vegetables offers a somewhat balanced indulgence, making it a “guilt-free” treat.

Ingredients and Preparation Details

Ingredients:

1. 4 strips of bacon
2. 15 grams of butter
3. 1 medium onion, finely chopped
4. 1 clove of garlic, minced
5. 250 grams of mushrooms, finely chopped
6. 2 tablespoons of plain flour
7. 250 grams of cream cheese, softened
8. 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
9. 1 tablespoon of dry sherry
10. 250 grams of sour cream

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 221.4 kcal
• Fat Content: 20.6 g
• Saturated Fat Content: 11.4 g
• Cholesterol Content: 52.4 mg
• Sodium Content: 213.7 mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 4.8 g
• Fiber Content: 0.4 g
• Sugar Content: 0.9 g
• Protein Content: 5.1 g

Servings: This recipe yields one dip, suitable for approximately 8 servings.

Total Time: 30 minutes (Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cook Time: 15 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bacon:

   • Place the 4 strips of bacon in a shallow microwave-safe dish. Cover with a paper towel to prevent splatters.
   • Cook the bacon on high in the microwave for about 3 minutes, or until it becomes crisp.
   • Once done, remove the bacon from the dish and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Add 15 grams of butter to the same dish used for the bacon.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the butter.
   • Cook this mixture on high in the microwave for 2 minutes, allowing the onion and garlic to soften and become fragrant.

3. Add Mushrooms:

   • Stir in the 250 grams of finely chopped mushrooms with the onion and garlic mixture.
   • Cook on high for an additional 2 minutes until the mushrooms start to release their juices and soften.

4. Thicken the Mixture:

   • Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of plain flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir well to combine.
   • This will help thicken the mixture as it cooks, creating a richer, creamier base for the dip.

5. Incorporate Cream Cheese and Seasonings:

   • Add the 250 grams of softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of dry sherry to the mushroom mixture.
   • Cook on high for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time to ensure even melting and blending of the ingredients.

6. Finish the Dip:

   • After the 5 minutes, stir in the 250 grams of sour cream and the previously chopped bacon pieces.
   • Mix well to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated and the dip is smooth and creamy.

7. Serve:

   • Spoon the hot dip into a serving dish.
   • This dip is best enjoyed hot, served with an assortment of raw vegetables such as sliced carrots, capsicum (bell peppers), green beans, and celery. The fresh, crisp vegetables provide a delightful contrast to the rich, creamy dip.

Tips for the Perfect Dip

1. Crispy Bacon: Ensure the bacon is cooked until very crisp to add a pleasant crunch and smoky flavor to the dip.
2. Even Chopping: Finely chop the mushrooms, onion, and garlic to ensure they cook evenly and integrate well into the creamy base.
3. Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending and a smoother texture.
4. Flavor Enhancers: The Worcestershire sauce and dry sherry add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Don’t skip these ingredients unless absolutely necessary.
5. Microwave Power: Microwave times can vary based on the wattage of your microwave. Keep an eye on the cooking process to prevent overcooking or burning.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Variations:

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or chives to the dip for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top before the final heating step for an extra cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions:

• Bread: Serve with slices of toasted baguette or crusty bread for a heartier option.
• Crackers: Pair with an assortment of crackers for added crunch.
• Party Platter: Create a beautiful party platter with the hot mushroom and bacon dip surrounded by colorful vegetables and assorted dippers.

Conclusion

This Hot Mushroom and Bacon Dip is a crowd-pleaser that combines the savory, smoky flavors of bacon with the earthiness of mushrooms and the creamy richness of cream cheese and sour cream. Its quick preparation time and versatility make it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or as a satisfying snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dip is sure to be a hit.

Indulge in this delectable dip and relish every creamy, flavorful bite, knowing that the fresh vegetables offer a balanced accompaniment to the richness of the dip. Happy dipping!