Neiman Marcus has been synonymous with over-the-top luxury since its opening in Dallas, Texas, in 1907. Throughout the years, the department store’s high-end fashion has drawn the likes of Coco Chanel, Gloria Vanderbilt, Howard Hughes, and Anna Wintour.
While the couture there might be a little too rich for the average budget, the brand’s cheesy dip (yes, the store has several namesake recipes) is rich in taste only. It won’t break the bank—but it will have you (and your guests) coming back for more.
What Is Neiman Marcus Dip?
Also known as Million Dollar Dip, Neiman Marcus Dip is a mayonnaise-based concoction loaded with Cheddar cheese, bacon, green onion, and toasted almonds. It’s simple to make, and even easier to eat. You’ll find it served chilled with chips or crackers at tailgates, brunches, and holiday parties. However, because this is a little thicker than most dips, make sure your scooping vessel is strong enough to handle it without breaking.
The Story Behind Neiman Marcus Dip
The cheesy dip originated at Neiman Marcus’ flagship upscale restaurant, the Zodiac Room. In the 1950s, the store’s Director of Food Services, Helen Corbitt, developed the recipe, which quickly gained a following. (Fun fact: Helen also invented Texas caviar, which Neiman Marcus later sold canned by the thousands.) After its debut at the Zodiac, Neiman Marcus Dip became a party favorite, first in the homes of Texans, and then all across the nation. That’s when it earned a new name, Million Dollar Dip, because—you guessed it—it tastes like a million bucks.
Chef John
Tips and Tweaks
- The recipe calls for an 8-ounce package of shredded Cheddar cheese. For a more pleasing appearance, we suggest using equal parts orange Cheddar and white Cheddar. For a flavor boost, you can add in a second type of cheese, like Swiss or even blue.
- For best results, use a sharp knife to cut the green onions. A dull blade will crush the stalks, releasing pungent sulfuric compounds and producing a much harsher flavor.
- Take time to cook the bacon until completely crisp. Doing this will make the bacon easier to chop and also provide the dip with just the right crunch. When you see white foamy bubbles form on the strips, you’ll know the bacon is ready.
- After toasting the almonds, let them cool completely before adding to the other ingredients.
- The dip’s ultra-rich flavor is one reason for its popularity, but if it’s too rich for your taste, adjust the recipe. Instead of 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise, use 3/4 cup mayo and 3/4 cup sour cream, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt, depending on your flavor preference.
- Neiman Marcus Dip is traditionally served cold, but one Allrecipes Community member tweaked the recipe by heating the dip to make it super creamy and easier to scoop.
What the Allrecipes Community Has to Say
- “We make this dip all the time! Especially when hosting. Our guests always rave about it. … We usually make it the night before a party and it makes for an easy appetizer to pull out of the fridge and munch on while we make the main dish. We make the recipe exactly as written and it is perfect.” —Lindsey StHilaire
- “The tastiest dip (or spread) anyone could ask for. My friends at a party practically inhaled the stuff like a vacuum!” —Nicholas Ahlstrand
- “I made this exactly as written and it was perfection. This will definitely be a go-to dip now. Very easy to make, too.” —fabeveryday
- “Delicious. Rich. You will feel very contented. Great on a buttery cracker.” —Samuel Huntington
- “Excellent dip! Perfect on the recommended Ritz crackers. Made exactly as written. If there is an ingredient you don’t like (green onions, nuts), then just leave it out—it will still be perfect—but I used all ingredients and it was SO GOOD!” —brbayou1
- “Yum! Highly recommend! Just as Mom made while I was a kid.” —Jeanie Quenneville Thomas
fabeveryday
