Super Bowl Loaded Baked Potato

The first Super Bowl party I hosted, I completely forgot to make an actual dip until twenty minutes before people started showing up. I stared at my counter full of baking potatoes and thought, why not just smash up everything people love about loaded potatoes into one bowl? That frantic little invention disappeared faster than the buffalo chicken dip I spent two hours perfecting the year before.

Last year my cousin Sarah showed up with these enormous waffle fries and we discovered they are actually the ideal vehicle for this dip, better than any chip I have ever tried. The combination of hot crispy fries and cold smoky dip became the kind of eating experience that makes everyone go quiet at the table.

Ingredients

• Sour cream: Use full fat for the richest texture, low fat will make the dip feel thin and sad.
• Cream cheese: Let it sit out for thirty minutes before you start, fighting cold cream cheese is nobody's idea of fun.
• Sharp cheddar: The extra aging means more flavor impact, mild cheese will get lost in all those other bold ingredients.
• Bacon: Cook it until it is seriously crispy, soft bacon creates weird texture pockets in an otherwise smooth dip.
• Green onions and chives: Both add that fresh bite that cuts through all the dairy richness.
• Garlic and onion powder: The double onion situation might seem excessive but trust me on this one.
• Smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that makes people wonder what exactly makes this dip so special.

Instructions

Blend the base:

In a medium bowl, beat together the sour cream and cream cheese until you cannot see any white lumps anymore.

Add the good stuff:

Fold in the cheddar, bacon crumbles, green onions, and most of the chives, saving some for the top.

Season it right:

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then give it another thorough mix.

Make it pretty:

Scrape everything into a nice serving bowl and shower it with those reserved toppings.

The hardest part:

Cover the bowl and walk away for at least an hour, the flavors need this time to become friends.

Game time:

Set it out with whatever chips or fries you chose and watch it vanish.

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My friend Mark claims he does not even like football but he shows up to my Super Sunday parties solely for this dip now. There is something about having food that feels like a fully loaded baked potato but requires no utensils that puts everyone in a good mood.

Making It Your Own

The vegetarians in my life have been thrilled with the version where I swap in crispy fried shallots and double the smoked paprika. That smoky depth almost makes you forget the bacon is missing, plus the shallots add this incredible sweet crunch factor.

The Chip Question

After years of testing every vehicle imaginable, I have strong feelings about serving vessels. Thick cut kettle chips work but can be dangerous for the roof of your mouth, while regular chips too often snap under the weight.

Serving Strategy

This dip is an overachiever that keeps well for days, which means you can absolutely make it the night before your gathering. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so do not stress about last minute prep work.

• Sturdy potato wedges or waffle fries are the game changing serving vessel nobody tells you about.
• If you are bringing this to a party, pack the toppings separately and garnish right before serving.
• Keep a small bowl of extra bacon nearby for people who inevitably want to double up on the crispy bits.

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Whether your team wins or loses, this dip is guaranteed to be the real champion of the day.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of cheese is used in the dip?

Sharp cheddar cheese is shredded and mixed into the creamy base to provide rich flavor and texture.

→ Can I make a vegetarian version of this dip?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or crispy fried shallots for a smoky alternative.

→ How long should the dip chill before serving?

It is best to refrigerate the dip for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend thoroughly.

→ What sides pair well with this dip?

Potato chips, waffle fries, or vegetable sticks such as celery and carrot are excellent for dipping.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

The dip itself is gluten-free, but be sure to check that your dipping chips or crackers contain no gluten.

→ What seasonings enhance the dip's flavor?

Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper provide a well-rounded, savory profile.