Warm Turnip Green Dip with Bacon Recipe (2024)

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❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

• Everyone loves a good, creamy dip, but this recipe takes it up a notch with a Southern twist. Using turnip greens sets it apart from the usual spinach or artichoke dips.
• This dip fits every occasion. It’s my go-to recipe because it never feels out of place and always gets great reviews.
• It’s a fantastic blend of creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. The bacon adds depth, while the turnip greens bring a fresh, earthy taste that complements the rich cream cheese and sour cream.
• It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that doesn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s a simple, no-fuss dish that yields delicious results every time.

🛒 Ingredient Notes

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• Frozen Chopped Turnip Greens – Even though you may think fresh turnips would be better, the cheap frozen ones are really best for this recipe. Much easier, too! If you’re unsure what to look for in the frozen section, Pictsweet brand is my favorite. Be sure to get plain turnip greens, not the turnip greens with diced turnips.
• Dry White Wine – The recipe uses a very small amount of wine, but it does impart great flavor. Use something like an inexpensive Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Low-Fat Cream Cheese and Low-Fat Sour Cream – The lower-fat options of both work really well in this recipe. And quite honestly, the full-fat versions would probably make the finished dish far too rich.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Parmesan Cheese – Use an inexpensive finely grated brand such as Kraft in the green box.

🥄 How I Make Turnip Green Dip

Cook the Turnip Greens

1. To start, you’ll cook the frozen chopped turnip greens according to the package directions, omitting salt. Set the cooked greens aside in a colander and let them drain well until you need them later in the recipe.
2. Preheat the oven to broil.

Cook the Bacon

3. Cut three pieces of thick-cut bacon crosswise into little slices, or lardon. Cook bacon in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes or until crisp. Remove the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
4. Pour out all but one tablespoon of the bacon drippings from the pan.

Add Remaining Ingredients

5. To the hot drippings, add the onion and garlic and sauté for about 4 minutes or until the onions begin to appear translucent.
6. Add the wine and cook an additional 2 minutes while stirring to loosen any particles from the bottom of the pan.
7. Stir in the cooked, well-drained turnip greens, cream cheese, sour cream, red pepper flakes, salt, ground pepper, and ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese.
8. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 6 to 7 minutes until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is heated through.

Transfer to Baking Dish

9. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 8×8 baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese.

Broil Until Browned

10. Broil for 4 to 5 minutes or until the Parmesan cheese is very lightly browned.
11. Remove from the oven and garnish with the reserved bacon.

Serve the dip with assorted crackers, pita chips, flatbread, or tortilla chips. Or, for a really southern flair, offer pork rinds on the side for dipping!

🍽️ How to Serve Turnip Green Dip

• Offer a variety of dipping options like toasted baguette slices, pita chips, tortilla chips, and pretzels.
• Embrace the recipe’s Southern roots by pairing it with my lacy cornbread or pork rinds.
• This dip is best enjoyed warm. If you’re taking it to a potluck or party, consider reheating it briefly in the oven or microwave before serving. If you expect it to be out for a while, consider using a warming tray.
• For a more personalized touch, serve in individual ramekins or mini cups.

🔀 Tips and Variations

• Offer the dip with hot pepper sauce on the side for guests who like a bit more spice.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and cook the onion and garlic in olive oil.
• For a super rich, over-the-top version, use regular cream cheese and sour cream.
• Substitute your favorite leafy green for the turnip greens.
• Try it with mild pork sausage instead of bacon.

🍚 How I Store the Leftovers

Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to cover it well to maintain its freshness. I recommend reheating it in the oven or microwave before serving again for the best taste and texture.

❓ Questions About Turnip Green Dip

📖 Recipe

Check out all my delicious southern comfort food recipes!

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