Texas Christmas Dip

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This Texas Christmas Dip is everything you want in a holiday appetizer: creamy, smoky, cheesy, and just the right amount of spice. It brings together the bold flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch, and sharp cheddar into one irresistible bowl. Perfect for scooping with buttery crackers or crisp veggies, it disappears in minutes at any gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a casual holiday party or need a quick starter for a Christmas potluck, this easy dip delivers. It can be made in minutes and served cold or baked until warm and bubbly. Either way, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that tastes like comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Christmas Dip

• No cooking required unless you want it warm
• Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge
• Bursting with Southern flavors like ranch, cheddar, and bacon
• Customizable with different cheeses or mix-ins
• Makes holiday entertaining easier and tastier

What Kind of Bacon Should I Use?

You’ll want to go with thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture. Fry it until crispy and crumble it into bits before folding it into the creamy mixture. If you’re short on time, store-bought real bacon bits will also do the trick, but freshly cooked bacon gives the best results.

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Ingredients for the Texas Christmas Dip

Cream Cheese – This is the rich and creamy base that holds everything together. It adds tang and body to the dip.

Sour Cream – Helps lighten the texture of the cream cheese while bringing a cool tangy note.

Cheddar Cheese – A bold, sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon. Shred it fresh for best melt and taste.

Bacon – Crispy, salty, and smoky. Adds crunch and deep savory flavor that makes this dip shine.

Ranch Seasoning Mix – Brings herby and zesty flavor, making the dip taste like everyone’s favorite dressing.

Green Onions – Adds a fresh pop and slight bite to balance the richness.

Pimentos – These sweet peppers add color and a subtle tang that complements the creamy base.

Paprika – A pinch on top for warmth and color.

Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a fresh green finish.

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How To Make the Texas Christmas Dip

Step 1: Prep the Creamy Base

Let your cream cheese soften at room temperature. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Flavor and Texture

Fold in the shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, drained pimentos, and ranch seasoning. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. This step really makes a difference!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, top with a sprinkle of paprika and freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crackers, chips, or veggie sticks.

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How to Serve Texas Christmas Dip

This recipe yields 12 servings and is perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or game days. Serve it in a festive bowl surrounded by buttery crackers, sliced baguette, celery sticks, or pretzel thins. For a warm version, bake it at 350°F for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

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Storing the Texas Christmas Dip

This dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you plan to make it ahead, simply mix all the ingredients (except garnish), store, and add garnishes just before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change due to the dairy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Texas Christmas Dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s actually better when made ahead since the flavors blend more deeply after chilling for a few hours.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter version. Just cook it until crisp to mimic the texture of regular bacon.

Can I serve this dip warm?
Definitely! Just transfer it to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

What can I serve with this dip?
Buttery crackers, sliced baguette, celery sticks, mini bell peppers, or pretzels all work beautifully.

Can I make it spicier?
Of course. Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat.

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Want More Dip Ideas That Steal the Show?

If you’re all about cheesy, savory dips like this one, try these flavor-packed favorites next:

• Irresistible Shrimp Crab Spinach Dip
• Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
• Cowboy Butter Dipping Sauce
• Creamy Sharp Cheddar Jack Cheese Dip
• Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra bacon or keep it classic? Try it warm or cold?

I love seeing your creations and hearing your twists. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other dip better.

Looking for more holiday dip recipes? Check out my collection at Life With Livia!

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