Preparation:

• Prep Ingredients:
  • Shred the smoked gouda.
  • Cook the bacon using your preferred method until crispy, then chop it. If you’re unsure about how to cook a large quantity of bacon, try baking it in an oven set to 400F for 10 to 20 minutes.
  • Chop the scallions.

Cooking Process:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

• Set your oven to preheat at 400F degrees.

2. Soften the Cream Cheese:

• Place the cream cheese into a large bowl.
• Microwave it for approximately 30 seconds or until it softens, making it easier to stir.

3. Create the Creamy Base:

• To the softened cream cheese, add both the mayo and sour cream.
• Whisk these ingredients together until they become smooth. The resulting texture should be creamy but slightly runny.

4. Incorporate Main Ingredients:

• Before you add everything to the mix, set aside the following for garnish: 1/3 cup of the shredded smoked gouda, ¼ cup of the chopped bacon, and 2 tablespoons of the chopped scallions.
• Introduce the remaining cheese, bacon, scallions, and freshly ground black pepper to the creamy base. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.

5. Transfer and Bake:

• Pour the dip mixture into an oven-proof dish.
• Sprinkle the top with the cheese and bacon that you had reserved earlier.
• Place the dish in the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for roughly 30 minutes. The goal is for the dip to turn a golden brown and bubble up.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• • Once out of the oven, garnish the dip with the remaining chopped scallions that you had set aside.
  • Serve immediately for the best experience!