Crack Dip (Ranch Bacon Cheddar Dip)

This crack dip is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with that salty, savory ranch flavor that makes it impossible to stop eating. It’s the kind of dip that everyone devours at parties because it hits everything people want in an appetizer: cool and scoopable, packed with cheddar, topped with bacon and green onions, and perfect with anything crunchy. Best of all, it comes together in about a minute, so it’s the ultimate last-second dip when you need something everyone will love.

Why This Is The Best Crack Dip Recipe

This easy crack dip is one of those appetizers people hover around. The combo of sour cream, cheddar, and ranch seasoning is already a win, but once you add bacon and green onions on top, it turns into that addictive, can’t-stop-scooping party dip everyone asks about. It’s creamy, salty, a little tangy, and full of big flavor with basically zero effort.

I love making this ranch crack dip whenever we’re hosting anything, even if it’s just a casual hang. It works with pretty much every dipper on the planet: crackers, toasted bread, pita chips, pretzels, celery sticks, carrot sticks, you name it. It’s one of those dips that makes whatever you serve it with taste better.

And the best part is how fast it is. Mix, top, serve. That’s it. When I’m putting out a spread and I want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser without turning the kitchen into a whole project, this is the one I reach for. It’s especially perfect with air fryer tortilla chips or Little Caesar's crazy bread when you want that salty-crunchy dip situation done right.

Crack Dip Ingredients

• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp. Ranch seasoning mix
• ¼ cup bacon bits
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced

By the way, if you have all of these ingredients, then you just need some shredded chicken and a few other things to make this crack chicken pasta, crack chicken casserole and crack chicken noodle soup next!

How To Make Crack Dip

Step 1: Make the dip

Add the sour cream, cheddar cheese, and Ranch seasoning to a mixing bowl. Give everything a good mix until all of the ingredients fully combine.

Step 2: Serve the crack dip

Top the dip with the cooked bacon bits and green onions, and serve with bread, crackers, or veggies for dipping.

Expert Tips To Make The Best Crack Dip

• Use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest crack dip: Full-fat sour cream gives you the thick, scoopable texture people expect. If you use low-fat, the dip can taste thinner and a little tangier. If you want it extra rich, you can swap a portion of the sour cream with softened cream cheese, but it’s not required.
• Shred your own cheddar if you can: Freshly shredded cheddar melts into the dip better on your tongue and tastes sharper and fresher. Pre-shredded cheese works, but it can taste a little waxy because of anti-caking agents.
• Let the dip rest before serving: Even though you can eat it right away, letting it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes gives the Ranch seasoning time to hydrate and the flavors time to blend. The dip gets thicker and tastes more “together” after it rests.
• Cook bacon until crisp, then drain it well: Crispy bacon adds crunch and salty bite, but extra grease can make the dip feel oily. Cook it until crisp and blot it with paper towels before sprinkling it on top.
• Save some toppings for the last second: If you’re serving for a party, keep the bacon and green onions separate until right before serving. This keeps the bacon crisp and the green onions fresh instead of getting soft in the fridge.
• Adjust the Ranch flavor the right way: Ranch seasoning brands vary in saltiness and intensity. Start with a little less if you’re unsure, then add more after tasting. If the dip tastes too salty, more sour cream fixes it. If it tastes flat, a pinch more seasoning or a squeeze of lemon can brighten it.
• Make it a hot crack dip option: If you want a warm version, spread it in a small baking dish, top with extra cheese and bacon, and bake until bubbly. It turns into a party-level appetizer with almost no extra work.
• Pick the right dippers so it doesn’t break: This dip is thick and loaded, so use sturdy dippers. Thick crackers, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, pretzel thins, and crunchy veggies like celery and bell peppers hold up best.

Crack Dip Recipe FAQS

What is crack dip made of?

Crack dip is a creamy Ranch-style dip made with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and Ranch seasoning, then topped with crispy bacon and green onions. It’s called “crack dip” because it’s so addictive and tends to disappear fast at parties.

Can I make crack dip ahead of time?

Yes. You can mix the dip base ahead of time  and refrigerate it for up to a day so the flavors blend. For the best texture, add the bacon and green onions right before serving so they stay crisp and fresh.

How long does crack dip last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving again, and add fresh toppings if you want it to look and taste like new.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream. The dip will taste a little tangier and slightly less rich, but it still works. Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the closest texture.

Can I make this dip without bacon?

Yes. It won’t have that smoky crunch, but it’s still a great cheddar Ranch dip. You can add extra green onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to bring in a little of that savory vibe.

What do you serve with crack dip?

Crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzels, pita chips, and tortilla chips are all great. For a lighter option, serve it with celery sticks, bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds, or carrots.

Can I make crack dip spicy?

Yes. Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, hot sauce, or use pepper jack instead of cheddar. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper on top for a little heat.

More Appetizer Recipes To Try

If you're looking for some more appetizer recipes, we have a few on the blog that everyone is sure to love!

Here are some reader favorites:

• Bisquick sausage balls
• Potato mochi
• Cream cheese dip
• Rotel dip
• Frank's Buffalo chicken dip
• Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp
• Red Lobster stuffed mushrooms

Also, don't forget to follow us on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for even more deliciousness. We post new ones on them every single day.