Bacon-Cheddar Dip

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Set an oven rack 4 inches away from the broiler and turn the broiler to high.

2. Step 2

   In a small bowl, combine tomatoes with a dash (or two) of hot sauce and a pinch of salt (or skip this step if using salsa). Set aside to marinate.

3. Step 3

   Heat an 8- or 9-inch cast-iron or broiler-safe skillet over medium-high. Add diced bacon and stir occasionally until crisp and browned, about 5 to 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve. Drain off most of the excess grease from the skillet, leaving 1 tablespoon bacon fat.

4. Step 4

   Add scallion whites and a pinch of salt to the bacon fat and sauté until tender, about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the cream cheese and keep stirring until it melts, about 3 to 4 minutes.

5. Step 5

   Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream, 2 cups grated Cheddar, black pepper, hot sauce and all but 1 tablespoon of the cooked bacon (save remaining tablespoon for garnish). Taste and add more salt and hot sauce if needed. Stir until the mixture is warm but not hot, 2 to 4 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Sprinkle top with ½ cup Cheddar. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is beginning to brown and bubble.

7. Step 7

   Remove from heat and top with scallion greens, reserved bacon and marinated cherry tomatoes. Serve with celery sticks, veggies, tortilla chips, potato chips or crackers.