Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Serving dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Add in the chopped bacon, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and smooth out the top with a rubber spatula.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the spread chilled with crackers, toasted bread, or vegetables.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 1 1/2 cups of spread, which is enough for about 8-10 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 210mg
Total carbohydrates: 2g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- You can use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits instead of regular bacon.
- If you don't have fresh chives, you can use dried chives or substitute with green onions.
Variations:
- Add in some shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Mix in some diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Use different herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the spread.
- Cook the bacon until crispy and chop it finely for the best texture.
- Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This spread is best served cold, so there is no need to reheat it.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the spread in a decorative bowl or on a platter with crackers and vegetables arranged around it.
Garnishes:
- Top the spread with additional chopped chives or crumbled bacon for a pretty presentation.
Pairings:
- Serve this spread with crackers, toasted bread, or vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers.
Suggested side dishes:
- This spread makes a great appetizer or snack, but it can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the spread is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the spread is too runny, you can add more cream cheese or sour cream to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon thoroughly before adding it to the spread.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and discard after 3 days.
Food history:
- Bacon and chive spread is a popular appetizer that originated in the United States.
Flavor profiles:
- This spread is creamy, savory, and slightly tangy with a smoky bacon flavor and a fresh herbaceous note from the chives.
Serving suggestions:
- This spread is perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a snack while watching TV.
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