Introduction
Get ready to unleash the bold flavors of the Wild West with this irresistible Cowboy Spread! Packed with creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a perfect blend of spices, this dip is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe for parties, game nights, or simply indulging in a delicious snack. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something special, this spread promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 8.8 oz (250 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 4.2 oz (120 g) sour cream
- 1.8 oz (50 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 3.5 oz (100 g) bacon, fried and crumbled (about 6 slices)
- 1 oz (30 g) spring onions, chopped
- 0.9 oz (25 g) garlic powder (about 1½ tbsp)
- 0.9 oz (25 g) onion powder (about 1½ tbsp)
- 0.04 oz (1 g) black pepper (about ¼ tsp)
- 0.04 oz (1 g) paprika (about ¼ tsp)
- 1 oz (30 g) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 oz (30 g) chopped jalapeños (optional)
Metric Measurements
- 250 g cream cheese, room temperature
- 120 g sour cream
- 50 g sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 100 g bacon, fried and crumbled
- 30 g spring onions, chopped
- 25 g garlic powder
- 25 g onion powder
- 1 g black pepper
- 1 g paprika
- 30 g diced tomatoes (optional)
- 30 g chopped jalapeños (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
- Prepare Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine room temperature cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until smooth and fully integrated.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Incorporate grated cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Mix in Herbs: Add chopped spring onions and stir well.
- Optional Add-ins: If desired, fold in diced tomatoes and chopped jalapeños.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika over the mixture. Mix until spices are evenly distributed.
- Chill and Serve: Transfer the spread to a serving bowl. For enhanced flavor, refrigerate for about an hour before serving.
Cooking Time and Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour (optional)
- Total Time: 10-70 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing
- Crisp bacon thoroughly for maximum crunch
- Adjust spice levels to personal preference
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese
- Finely chop ingredients for more even distribution
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with smoked paprika or sun-dried tomatoes
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives
- Low-Sodium: Reduce or eliminate added salt
- Spicy Version: Increase jalapeños or add hot sauce
- Herb Variations: Experiment with chives or fresh herbs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long can I store this spread? A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Q2: Can I freeze the Cowboy Spread? A: Not recommended due to cream cheese’s texture changes when frozen.
Q3: What are the best serving suggestions? A: Serve with crackers, chips, vegetable sticks, or as a spread on toast.
Q4: How can I make it less spicy? A: Reduce or omit jalapeños and adjust spice powders.
Q5: Can I make this spread ahead of time? A: Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for an hour.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in sealed container for up to 5 days
- Best Served: Slightly chilled or at room temperature
- Prep Ahead: Can be made 1-2 days before serving
- Serving Tip: Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal spreadability
Saddle up and enjoy this mouthwatering Cowboy Spread that’s sure to be the star of any gathering!