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Crispy Ultimate Football Party Spread

crispy ultimate football party spread - featured image

A crispy, creamy, and addictive game day dip perfect for football parties, tailgates, and casual get-togethers. Features a golden panko-Parmesan topping and a savory, cheesy base.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free panko can be used)
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook and crumble the bacon: cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble. Pre-cooked bacon bits can be used as a shortcut.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Beat together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the creamy base and stir well.
  5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions gently until evenly combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture to an 8×8 inch oven-safe baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle evenly over the dip.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Watch closely near 20 minutes to avoid burning.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to set.
  10. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette.

Notes

Let cream cheese soften before mixing to avoid lumps. Tent with foil if topping browns too quickly. Rest dip 5 minutes after baking for better texture. Line baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to keep topping crispy. Can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: football party dip, game day dip, crispy dip, cheesy dip, panko topping, bacon dip, easy appetizer, party food