# Derby Day Delight: The Ultimate Hot Brown BLT Dip Recipe
Get ready to celebrate the Kentucky Derby with a dip that’s as exciting as the race itself! This Hot Brown BLT Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and smoky explosion of flavor inspired by the iconic Louisville Hot Brown sandwich and the classic BLT. It’s perfect for Derby Day parties, tailgating, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious appetizer. Forget the mint juleps for a moment (just kidding, don’t forget the mint juleps!), and let’s dive into this winning recipe!
## What is a Hot Brown, Anyway?
For those unfamiliar, the Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich originating from the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. It typically consists of toasted bread topped with sliced turkey or ham, Mornay sauce (a cheese sauce), bacon, and tomatoes. It’s a rich and decadent dish that’s become a culinary symbol of Louisville.
This dip takes all the best elements of the Hot Brown and the beloved BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) and transforms them into a shareable appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
## Why This Dip is a Winner
* **Flavor Explosion:** This dip is a symphony of flavors, from the smoky bacon and creamy cheese sauce to the bright tomatoes and fresh lettuce. It’s a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.
* **Easy to Make:** While it may sound fancy, this dip is surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip it up in no time.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** This dip is guaranteed to be a hit at any party or gathering. It’s perfect for sharing and is sure to spark conversation.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this dip to your liking. Add different cheeses, meats, or vegetables to create your own unique version.
* **Hot Brown & BLT Fusion:** The best of both worlds! Combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of a hot brown with the fresh, familiar flavors of a BLT makes for an unexpected but undeniably delicious combination.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable Hot Brown BLT Dip:
* **Bacon:** The star of the show! You’ll need about 1 pound of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled. Use your favorite type of bacon – thick-cut is always a good choice for extra flavor.
* **Cream Cheese:** This forms the base of the dip, making it creamy and rich. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. 8 ounces.
* **Mayonnaise:** Adds moisture and tang to the dip. ½ cup.
* **Sour Cream:** Contributes to the dip’s creaminess and adds a slight tang. ½ cup.
* **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** Provides a sharp and cheesy flavor. You can use mild, medium, or sharp cheddar, depending on your preference. 1 ½ cups.
* **Shredded Mozzarella Cheese:** Melts beautifully and adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor. 1 cup.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** Adds a burst of freshness and acidity. About 1 cup, seeded. Roma tomatoes are a great choice because they aren’t too watery.
* **Shredded Lettuce:** Adds a refreshing crunch and visual appeal. About 1 cup, iceberg or romaine lettuce work well.
* **Garlic Powder:** Enhances the savory flavors of the dip. ½ teaspoon.
* **Onion Powder:** Adds a subtle onion flavor. ½ teaspoon.
* **Hot Sauce:** Adds a touch of heat. Use your favorite hot sauce – start with a few dashes and add more to taste. (Optional)
* **Worcestershire Sauce:** Adds a savory and umami flavor. 1 teaspoon.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season generously to bring out all the flavors.
* **French Bread Baguette or Crackers:** For serving. Sliced and toasted baguette slices are a classic choice, but crackers, tortilla chips, or even vegetable sticks also work well.
## Equipment
* Large Skillet or Baking Sheet: For cooking the bacon.
* Mixing Bowl: For combining the dip ingredients.
* 9×13 inch Baking Dish or Oven-Safe Dish: For baking the dip.
* Spatula or Spoon: For mixing and spreading the dip.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your own Hot Brown BLT Dip:
**Step 1: Cook the Bacon**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Alternatively, you can cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat.
* Arrange the bacon strips on a baking sheet or in a skillet.
* Bake for 15-20 minutes, or cook in the skillet until the bacon is crispy. Be sure to flip halfway through if cooking in a skillet.
* Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the oven or skillet and let it cool slightly.
* Crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
**Step 2: Prepare the Dip Base**
* In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
* Beat with an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon until smooth and creamy. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
**Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings**
* Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the mixing bowl.
* Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce (if using), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
* Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
**Step 4: Assemble the Dip**
* Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish or oven-safe dish.
* Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dip.
* Top with the crumbled bacon.
**Step 5: Bake the Dip**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dip is heated through.
**Step 6: Add the Fresh Toppings**
* Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly.
* Top with the diced tomatoes and shredded lettuce.
**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!**
* Serve the Hot Brown BLT Dip warm with sliced and toasted baguette slices, crackers, tortilla chips, or vegetable sticks.
* Enjoy!
## Tips for the Perfect Dip
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the dip will taste. Opt for high-quality bacon, cheese, and cream cheese for the best results.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking can cause the dip to become dry and the cheese to harden. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* **Adjust the Heat:** If you like a spicier dip, add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the dip base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add the cheese and bacon before baking.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Feel free to experiment with different toppings. Try adding diced avocado, green onions, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing.
* **Bacon Cooking Method:** For perfectly crisp bacon, try baking it in the oven on a wire rack. This allows the fat to drain away, resulting in extra crispy bacon.
* **Room Temperature Cream Cheese:** Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will prevent lumps and make it easier to create a smooth, creamy base.
* **Strain Tomatoes:** Drain the diced tomatoes well to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
* **Broil for Extra Color:** If you want the cheese on top to be extra golden brown, broil the dip for a minute or two at the end of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
## Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations and substitutions to try:
* **Turkey or Ham:** Instead of bacon, use diced turkey or ham to make it even more like a traditional Hot Brown.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Pepper Jack.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the bacon and add diced mushrooms or roasted red peppers for a vegetarian version.
* **Spicy Version:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy cheese blend for a kick.
* **Hot Brown Purist:** For a more authentic Hot Brown flavor, incorporate a Mornay sauce into the dip. You can either make your own or use a store-bought version.
* **Jalapenos:** Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick and extra flavor.
* **Spinach:** Mix in some chopped fresh spinach for added nutrients and a subtle flavor.
* **Artichoke Hearts:** Diced artichoke hearts can add a unique and delicious twist.
## Serving Suggestions
This Hot Brown BLT Dip is perfect for serving at a variety of occasions, including:
* **Derby Day Parties:** A must-have for any Kentucky Derby celebration!
* **Tailgating:** A crowd-pleasing appetizer for tailgating events.
* **Game Day Gatherings:** Perfect for watching football, basketball, or any other sport.
* **Holiday Parties:** A festive and delicious addition to your holiday spread.
* **Casual Get-Togethers:** A great way to impress your friends and family at any gathering.
Serve it with:
* **Toasted Baguette Slices:** A classic choice that provides a sturdy base for the dip.
* **Crackers:** Choose your favorite crackers, such as Ritz, Wheat Thins, or Triscuits.
* **Tortilla Chips:** Add a Southwestern twist with tortilla chips.
* **Vegetable Sticks:** Carrots, celery, and bell peppers are healthy and refreshing options.
* **Pretzels:** For a salty and crunchy contrast.
## Make Ahead Instructions
This dip is perfect for making ahead of time, which is especially convenient for parties and gatherings. Here’s how to do it:
1. **Prepare the Dip Base:** Follow steps 2 and 3 of the recipe to prepare the cream cheese mixture with cheese and seasonings.
2. **Store in the Refrigerator:** Cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
3. **Assemble and Bake:** When you’re ready to serve, spread the dip into a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese and bacon, and bake as directed.
4. **Add Fresh Toppings:** After baking, top with the diced tomatoes and shredded lettuce before serving.
By making the dip base ahead of time, you can save time and effort on the day of your event. Just remember to add the fresh toppings right before serving to prevent them from wilting.
## Storage Instructions
If you have any leftover Hot Brown BLT Dip, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store it properly:
1. **Let it Cool:** Allow the dip to cool completely before storing it.
2. **Transfer to an Airtight Container:** Transfer the dip to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
3. **Refrigerate:** Store the container in the refrigerator.
To reheat the dip, you can either microwave it for a few minutes or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Keep in mind that the lettuce and tomatoes will wilt when reheated, so you may want to add fresh toppings before serving.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
* Calories: 250-300 per serving
* Fat: 20-25g
* Saturated Fat: 12-15g
* Cholesterol: 70-80mg
* Sodium: 400-500mg
* Carbohydrates: 5-7g
* Fiber: 1g
* Sugar: 2-3g
* Protein: 10-12g
## Conclusion
This Hot Brown BLT Dip is a winning combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. With its creamy cheese sauce, smoky bacon, and fresh tomatoes and lettuce, it’s a delicious twist on the classic Hot Brown sandwich and the beloved BLT. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to impress your guests with this unforgettable appetizer. Happy Derby Day, and happy dipping!