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Craving a dip that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-deliciously easy to make? This irresistible Broccoli Dip has everything you need: tender-crisp broccoli florets, savory bacon, and a rich blend of melted cheeses all baked into a warm, gooey masterpiece perfect for dipping. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to enjoy a decadent snack, this broccoli and cheese dip will steal your heart!

“Lining this one up for the Super Bowl this year! I’ve made it before and it’s just easy and delicious! Comfort food at its best! Thanks!”

– AMY
Overhead photo of broccoli cheese dip garnished with crispy bits of bacon and sliced green onions.

Update: This recipe was originally published in April 2015. I took new photos, tweaked the recipe slightly and made updates to the post below to include more information about this cheesy broccoli dip.

Hey friends – today we are celebrating the life of any party—besides yourself of course—creamy, cheesy dips!

Table of Contents

About this broccoli dip

This hot broccoli cheese dip is everything you could want in a dip recipe. Imagine tender-crisp broccoli florets, crispy pieces of bacon, aromatic garlic, sweet onions, a medley of delicious seasonings, and a trifecta of cheeses all melted together into a warm, creamy, totally irresistible dip.  

But, this broccoli and cheese dip isn’t just delicious, it’s also an absolute breeze to prepare and you can make it in the crockpot, slow cooker, or oven—your choice.

Perfect for sharing as an appetizer at family gatherings and game days, it pairs great alongside crudite, crackers, and chips. Or stuff it inside a baked potato and treat your taste buds to a cozy hug. Regardless, this is a recipe that will have you coming back for more. 

If you’re looking for more easy, cheesy appetizers, check out these reader favorites next: goat cheese hors d’oeuvres, baked brie en croute, and oven baked camembert cheese.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Grab a party-sized bag of chips and get ready to score a touchdown with this insanely cheesy dip:

  • Balance of Delicious Flavors. With the fresh crunch of broccoli, smoky bacon, and aromatic seasonings in a creamy base made with 3 melty cheeses, this broccoli dip brings the perfect balance of flavors and textures with just the right amount of cheesy indulgence. 
  • Cozy and Comforting. Warm and cheesy, it’s a dip that everyone will reach for.
  • Family-Friendly. Broccoli sneaks in a bit of wholesome goodness while bacon and cheese keep it a hit with kids.
  • Totally Customizable. Make it in the oven, slow cooker, or crockpot and swap out cheeses, make it spicy, add sweet bell peppers, or nix the bacon to make it vegetarian. With this bacon cheese dip you can have it your way. 
  • Prep Ahead Friendly. You can easily prep this recipe for cheesy broccoli dip in advance. Simply uncover the baking dish, pop it in the oven, and enjoy.
Overhead photo of a head of fresh broccoli cut into bite-size florets on a large wood cutting board with a knife next to the florets.

Ingredients for cheesy broccoli dip

As promised, you’ll just need simple, easy-to-find ingredients to make this cheesy veggie dip. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a punch of smoky, salty, umami flavor. I prefer to use center cut bacon because it has less fat and prevents the dip from becoming greasy. The recipe calls for 6 slices of bacon, but you can most definitely use more if you like. 
    • Vegetarian? You can easily omit it or see below for a vegetarian version.
  • Yellow Onion: Half of a large yellow onion adds a touch of mild onion flavor.
  • Spices & Seasonings: Fresh garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt and ground black pepper all provide tons of flavor.
  • Broccoli: You need three cups of fresh chopped broccoli. You can save time by using pre-cut bags of riced broccoli.
  • Cheeses: A trifecta of cheeses add complex flavor and make this dip with broccoli irresistible. Cream cheese provides a rich creaminess, and Colby Jack or cheddar cheese delivers a mildly sweet taste and smooth texture, while parmesan adds a subtly sharp flavor. Make sure you grab blocks of cheese and shred or grate them yourself for the best taste and texture.
  • Scallions: Green onions provide delicate onion flavor and make a beautiful garnish.
  • Dairy: The combination of Sour cream, milk and mayonnaise give the dip a thick and creamy texture while providing a slightly tangy flavor.
  • Worcestershire: Worcestershire sauce is the secret ingredient that adds a faint, yet powerful umami flavor that can’t be beat. Don’t skip it!

Recipe variations

Get creative in the kitchen and make this broccoli dip recipe your own–add ingredients you love and eliminate the ones you don’t. Below are a few ideas to inspire:

  • Vegetarian Option. Omit the bacon and use a vegetarian bacon substitute. Alternatively, you can swap in sauteed mushrooms and a little bit of smoked paprika.
  • Vegan Option. Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan shredded cheese, and plant-based bacon or skip it altogether and go for the mushroom option above.
  • Swap Cheeses. Swap out the colby jack for your favorite melty cheese, like cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda. 
  • Spicy Version. Add chopped green chiles, minced jalapenos, or red pepper flakes if you like things fiery hot. 
  • Broccoli Ranch Dip. If you love tangy ranch as much as I do, add a little ranch seasoning mix to the dip mixture before cooking.
  • Make it Lazy. Use pre-cooked bacon bits and skip steps 1 and 2 of the recipe entirely. Then just combine all the ingredients together in a baking dish and bake or crock pot and slow cook as directed.
Overhead photo of raw broccoli florets, sautéed diced onions, crispy pieces of bacon, shredded cheese, cream cheese, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl - before being mixed together.

How to make broccoli and cheese dip

  1. Cook Bacon: In a large sauté pan over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside to drain.
  2. Saute onions + aromatics: Drain off all but 2 teaspoons of the bacon grease. Add the onion and season with salt and pepper. Cook until translucent. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  3. For the slow cooker:  Spray the inside of the slow cooker insert with cooking spray.  Transfer the onions and bacon to the slow cooker. Stir in all the remaining ingredients. Cover and cook the dip on LOW for 2-3 hours, or until the broccoli is tender, stirring halfway through cooking.
  4. For the oven:  Grease an 8-inch baking dish and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine onions, bacon and the remaining ingredients (through salt and pepper), reserving 1/4 cup of the Colby cheese for topping.  Transfer the dip to the baking dish. Sprinkle reserved Colby cheese evenly on top of drop. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until bubbly. Optional: During last 3-4 minutes, switch the oven to broil for a more golden brown top!
  5. To Serve:  Garnish with more parmesan and scallions if desired. Enjoy!

Follow these chef expert tips for the best success!

  • Proper Broccoli Prep. Make sure you very finely chop the broccoli florets. I like to use a food processor to make quick work out of this. If you prefer your broccoli on the super soft side–versus tender crisp–you can lightly steam or par-boil the florets before chopping them.
  • Grate Cheese Yourself. Grab blocks of cheese and grate or shred them yourselves. Those bags of pre-shredded cheese contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting into a smooth, creamy puddle of dip goodness.
  • Cook Bacon to Crispy. Cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy and well done to ensure it doesn’t turn soggy in the dip.
  • Slow Cooker Tip. The precise cooking time will depend on the strength of your slow cooker. Make sure you cook the dip on low and check on it periodically. Cook until the broccoli is just tender, there is nothing worse than mushy broccoli dip!
  • Baking Dish Tip. You can use any ovenproof baking dish that is approximately  2 to 2 1/2 quarts, or 8 to 9 inches.  An 8-inch or 9-inch square baking dish, pie pan or cake pan all work wonderfully. Or, you can also use an oven proof skillet.
  • Serve Warm. This broccoli and cheese dip is best when you serve it hot and slightly gooey. While I recommend you let the dip cool slightly so you don’t burn your tongue, make sure you enjoy it while it’s warm.
  • Garnish Thoughtfully. Garnishes are the best way to make a dish really shine. I recommend topping this dip with more crispy bacon (reserve some from step 2) or candied bacon, plenty of chopped fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of ground black pepper.

Step by step photos: making this recipe at home

If you’re looking for the detailed measurements and full recipe instructions, please scroll down to the bottom of the page. 

Step-by-step photo collage illustrating how to make broccoli dip with written instructions on each step.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! If you have a question you don’t see listed below, please drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 

What is broccoli cheese dip?

If you love broccoli casserole, you are going to love this broccoli dip!

This warm and cheesy dip essentially takes those same flavors, adds some cream cheese for extra creamy richness and bacon for salty, umami flavor, and bakes it up into an unbelievably creamy, bubbling hot dip.

How to prepare broccoli for dip?

For this dip you will need to remove the florets from the stem or the stalk. The florets are the individual flowery parts growing off of the stalk of broccoli. But don’t discard those stems – save them and make vegetable stock, add them to soups and stir-fries or roast them for snacking!

Learn how to trim broccoli here! And then put those florets to good use in these recipes next: Broccoli Salad with Grapes, Easy Tabbouleh with Broccoli, Broccoli Tater Tots, and Creamy Broccoli Pasta.

Can I make this dip without bacon?

Absolutely. Simply omit the bacon from the recipe and replace it with crumbled veggie bacon or chopped sautéed mushrooms.

Can I make recipe for broccoli dip in advance?

Absolutely! This bacon cheese dip with broccoli is a wonderful make ahead dish!

  • Mix the dip ingredients together according to the recipe instructions.
  • Transfer the dip to the prepared baking dish.
  • Cover the dip with tightly with plastic wrap.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
  • When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and let the dip sit on the counter to remove the chill while the oven preheats. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.

What can I do with leftover cheese and broccoli dip?

Got leftover dip and want to repurpose it into something new?! You can easily turn this vegetable dip into a rich, creamy homemade sauce! Thin the dip with a little whole milk, heavy cream or half and half and reheat it over low heat on the stove. Voilà – you have an incredible homemade cheese sauce that tastes amazing with pasta, rice or even potatoes!

Angled photo of a piece of bread inserted into a dip made with broccoli florets, cheese, and bacon.

Serving dip with broccoli

While this broccoli dip is best served hot or warm, if you’re baking the dip make sure you let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes before serving so your guests don’t burn their mouth.

Common serving suggestions

  • Crackers and Bread: Pair alongside a variety or crackers, homemade bread crostinis, or even roasted garlic bread to pick up all this cheesy goodness.
  • Chips: Salty chips are another no brainer for warm dips. Any sturdy chip, such as thick-cut tortillas, Fritos, and pita wedges will work best.
  • Crudités: Keep things wholesome and serve your dip with your favorite raw veggies, like broccoli, cauliflower, red bell pepper strips, carrots, and/or mini sweet peppers.

Unique serving ideas

  • Inside a Bread Bowl: Serve your cheesy dip inside a bread boule for a fun and pretty presentation. Plus, the dip soaked bread tastes pretty fantastic.
  • Potato Skins: If you have never tried topping your potato skins with broccoli dip you are missing out. This is truly a match made in culinary heaven.
  • Make it a Meal: Spoon the warm cheesy broccoli over roasted chicken breasts or thighs for a quick and delicious dinner.
Close-up, overhead photo of broccoli and cheese dip with a crostini inserted into the dip.

Storing leftovers

Storage instructions

  • Allow the broccoli dip to cool completely at room temperature. Either wrap the cooled baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the dip to an airtight storage container. Store in the fridge for 4-5 days.

Reheating instructions

You can reheat this creamy dip two different ways:

  • Oven: Remove the dip from the refrigerator to remove chill while the oven preheats to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If the dip is in a storage container, transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish. Reheat for approximately 22-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and hot throughout.
  • Microwave: Transfer individual portions of the dip to a microwave-safe container or bowl. Place a microwave-safe lid on top of the container, leaving the lid slightly cracked at the side (to prevent splatter and form a vent). Microwave for 45 second intervals until warm throughout.

Freezing instructions

I do not recommend freezing this broccoli bacon dip due to the mayonnaise and sour cream. However, you can prepare this dip in advance and store it in the refrigerator, or you can half the recipe if you are worried about having leftovers.

Action photo of a crostini scooping up cheese broccoli dip.

With the perfect balance of indulgent cheese and bacon with veggie goodness, ’m pretty sure this warm broccoli dip is what you call winning in life. Until next time, friends, cheers and happy cooking!

Cheyanne

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More warm cheese dips!

Looking for more hot dip recipes? Try these family favorites next:

Close-up photo of a crostini toast inserted into broccoli dip.

Broccoli Dip

5 from 2 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Craving a dip that's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-deliciously easy to make? This irresistible Broccoli Dip has everything you need: tender-crisp broccoli florets, savory bacon, and a rich blend of melted cheeses all baked into a warm, gooey masterpiece perfect for dipping. Whether you're hosting a party or just want to enjoy a decadent snack, this broccoli and cheese dip will steal your heart!

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 Baking Dish OR Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)

Ingredients 

Instructions

  • Cook Bacon: Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and add the bacon.
    Cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and cooked through.
    Use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside to drain.
  • Sauté Onion and Aromatics: Drain all but 2 teaspoons bacon grease from the pan – reserving remaining bacon grease for another use or discarding.
    Place the pan back over medium heat and add the diced onion. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
    Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then remove the pan from the heat.
  • SLOW COOKER INSTRUCTIONS:  Spray the inside of the slow cooker insert with cooking spray. 
    Transfer the onions and bacon mixture from the sauté pan to the slow cooker. Add the cheeses, scallions, sour cream, heavy cream, mayonnaise and Worcestershire. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir until well combined.
    Cover slow cooker with lid and cook the broccoli and dip on LOW for 2-3 hours, or until the broccoli is tender (but not mushy) and the cheese is melted, stirring halfway through cook time. 
    Taste the dip and adjust it for seasoning.
  • OVEN BAKING INSTRUCTIONS: Grease an 8-inch baking dish and preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 
    Add the onion and bacon mixture to a large bowl. Add the cream cheese, 1 1/4 cup Colby cheese, parmesan cheese, scallions, sour cream, heavy cream, mayonnaise and Worcestershire. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir until well combined.
    Transfer the dip to the prepared baking dish.  Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Colby cheese evenly on top of dip. 
    Place into the oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated throughout. 
    OPTIONAL: During last 3-4 minutes, switch oven to broil for a more golden brown topped dip.  Just make sure you keep an eye on it as it can go from delicious to burnt quickly.
  • Serve Broccoli Dip: Garnish the top of the cheesy bacon dip with grated parmesan, more crispy bacon, and sliced scallions.
    Serve with crackers, crostinis, crudités and enjoy!
    Overhead photo of Broccoli Dip in a white oval baking dish with a slice of toasted baguette inserted into the dip and slices of baguette, a green linen, and ramekins of sliced scallions and salt surrounding the baking dish.

Video

Notes

  1. Broccoli Prep: While I like the actual taste of broccoli in this dip, if you are trying to be more sneaky and serve this to picky eaters, make sure you very finely chop the broccoli before proceeding with the recipe.  If you prefer your broccoli on the softer side (versus the tender-crisp side), partially stem the head of broccoli before chopping.
  2. Cooking Method: This hot broccoli and cheese dip can be made one of two ways – either in the crockpot (slow cooker) or in the oven!  I have included directions for both in the recipe below.  If you are opting to bake this dip, make sure you reserve 1/4 cup of Colby Jack cheese for topping before baking!
  3. Cream Cheese: You can use any type of cream cheese you would like in this dip.  If I have it on hand, I prefer whipped cream cheese because it is lends a lighter mouthfeel to the dip.
  4. Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  5. Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 8 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 296kcal    Carbohydrates: 9g    Protein: 16g    Fat: 22g    Saturated Fat: 10g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g    Monounsaturated Fat: 7g    Trans Fat: 0.03g    Cholesterol: 51mg    Sodium: 861mg    Potassium: 326mg    Fiber: 1g    Sugar: 4g    Vitamin A: 626IU    Vitamin C: 32mg    Calcium: 391mg    Iron: 1mg
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American

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Overhead photo of broccoli and dip in a white oval baking dish with a slice of toasted baguette inserted into the dip and slices of baguette, a green linen, and ramekins of sliced scallions and salt surrounding the baking dish.