Description
Mississippi Sin Dip
Ingredients
1 loaf of French bread or sourdough bread (unsliced)
8 oz (1 package) cream cheese (softened)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup diced ham (or cooked bacon pieces)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Hollow Out the Bread:
Cut off the top of the bread loaf and hollow out the center, leaving a sturdy shell. Reserve the removed bread pieces for dipping later.
Make the Dip:
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, diced ham, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Fill the Bread Bowl:
Spoon the dip mixture into the hollowed-out bread loaf. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar on top.
Bake:
Wrap the filled bread loaf in aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly. For the last 5 minutes, uncover the top to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
Serve:
Garnish with additional green onions and serve warm with the reserved bread pieces, crackers, or veggies for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Calories: ~250 per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for at least 30 minutes; this prevents a lumpy dip. When hollowing the bread, use a serrated knife to cut a wide opening and a small paring knife to carefully score and remove the interior, leaving a 1/2-inch thick shell. Tear the reserved bread into bite-sized chunks and toast them on a baking sheet for 10 minutes at 350°F for extra crunch. For the filling, use a hand mixer on low speed to blend the cream cheese and sour cream first, creating a smooth base before folding in the other ingredients with a spatula. This ensures even distribution without over-mixing.
Serving Suggestions
While the toasted bread bowl pieces are classic, this dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Offer sturdy potato chips, pretzel rods, or sliced bell peppers and celery sticks for a fresh crunch. For a heartier spread, serve alongside chicken wings or sliders. To elevate presentation, place the baked bread bowl on a large platter surrounded by the dippers and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley.
How-to Summary
In brief: Soften cream cheese, hollow a bread loaf, and mix all filling ingredients. Fill the bread shell, top with cheese, wrap in foil, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until hot. Uncover for the last 5 minutes to brown the cheese. Serve warm with assorted dippers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dip in the bread bowl, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What are good substitutes for the ham? Cooked and crumbled bacon, spicy sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken work excellently. For a vegetarian version, use chopped artichoke hearts and spinach.
My dip is too thick. How can I thin it? Stir in a tablespoon or two of milk, buttermilk, or a creamy ranch dressing until your desired consistency is reached.
Can I bake this in a dish instead of a bread bowl? Absolutely. Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8 baking dish or a small oven-safe skillet. Bake as directed, and serve with sliced bread or crackers.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover dip (removed from the bread shell) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese, as it will not blend smoothly and will create lumps in your dip. Do not over-hollow the bread bowl, making the walls too thin, or it may collapse during baking or serving. Resist the urge to over-mix the filling once the cheeses are incorporated, as this can make the texture gummy. Finally, do not skip the final step of uncovering the foil; this crucial step allows moisture to escape and gives the top cheese a perfect, appetizing golden-brown finish.
Conclusion
This Mississippi Sin Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in a fun, edible bread bowl. Its simplicity in preparation belies its impressive impact, making it a guaranteed hit for game days, parties, or any casual gathering. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize it to your taste. Prepare for this delicious, comforting dip to disappear quickly and become a requested favorite at all your events.