Oh, let me tell you about the Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes! This dip is a creamy, dreamy delight that transforms fresh tomatoes into a cheesy masterpiece. The moment you take a scoop, you’re greeted with that rich creaminess and a burst of flavor that just makes you smile. It’s perfect for gatherings, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive holiday party. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds—if not thirds!
What really makes this dip special is the combination of textures. You’ve got the smoothness of the cream cheese and mayonnaise, mingling beautifully with the juicy chunks of ripe tomatoes. And then, oh that cheesy goodness! The cheddar adds a sharpness while the Parmesan gives it that umami kick that keeps you wanting more. The fresh basil and sprinkle of garlic powder tie everything together, bringing a touch of freshness that brightens every bite.
I remember the first time I made this dip for a family reunion. I was nervous—what if nobody liked it? But as soon as I set it out, the aroma filled the air, and people were drawn to it like bees to honey! My cousin even dubbed it “the magic dip,” and it’s been a staple ever since. I love making it ahead of time; it’s so easy to prepare, and when I pop it in the oven just before guests arrive, the anticipation builds as the bubbly goodness wafts through the house. Just thinking about it makes me want to whip up a batch right now!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delicious Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need, along with some handy tips:
- 12 ripe tomatoes, chopped: Choose juicy, vibrant tomatoes for the best flavor. I love using vine-ripened ones because they’re bursting with sweetness!
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. This gives the dip its creamy base.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This adds an extra layer of richness. You can use regular or light mayo, depending on your preference.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: I like sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but feel free to use mild if you prefer something softer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The nutty notes of Parmesan really elevate the dip. Grate it fresh if you can for maximum flavor!
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped: Fresh basil is a must! It brightens the dish and adds a lovely herbal note.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor. Adjust the amount based on your garlic love!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skip this—seasoning brings all the flavors together!
Gather these ingredients, and let’s get ready to create something magical!
How to Prepare the Neiman Marcus Dip 12 Tomatoes
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this creamy, cheesy dip! Don’t worry, it’s super simple and comes together in no time. Just follow these easy steps and you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: First things first, let’s get that oven heated up! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and toasty for our dip.
- Mix the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend them together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the luscious base of our dip!
- Add the tomatoes and cheeses: Now, it’s time to fold in the chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to combine everything, making sure those juicy tomatoes are evenly distributed throughout the cheesy mixture.
- Season it up: Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil and garlic powder. Give it a good stir, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens, so taste and adjust as needed! You want that perfect balance of flavors!
- Transfer to baking dish: Once everything is well mixed, transfer the dip mixture into a baking dish. I like to use a 9-inch pie dish or a small casserole dish for this. Make sure it’s spread out evenly.
- Bake to perfection: Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Just imagine that cheesy, aromatic goodness filling your kitchen!
- Serve warm: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a minute before serving. This dip is best enjoyed warm, so grab your favorite crackers or slices of bread and get ready to dig in!
And there you have it! A step-by-step guide that turns those simple ingredients into a delightful Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes. Trust me, you’re going to be the star of your next gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dip comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time! Perfect for last-minute gatherings or unexpected guests.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: With a delightful blend of cream cheese and mayonnaise, each bite is smooth and indulgent. You’ll find it hard to resist going back for more!
- Delicious Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh tomatoes, sharp cheddar, and savory Parmesan creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Each scoop is a tasty journey!
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with crackers, bread, or even fresh veggies. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that fits any occasion!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dip a day in advance and simply bake it before serving. This makes entertaining so much easier!
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins. Want a little spice? Toss in some jalapeños! The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some practical tips and tricks that I’ve picked up through my own kitchen experiments:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use cream cheese that’s softened to room temperature. This helps it blend smoothly with the mayonnaise and avoids any lumps in your dip. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
- Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can work in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh basil for the best flavor. You can even mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a unique twist!
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the tomatoes and cheese, mix gently. You want to keep some of that texture from the tomatoes intact for a delightful burst in every bite.
- Taste as You Go: This is key! As you mix in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder, taste the mixture. You might want a little more garlic or seasoning depending on your personal preference!
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your dip as it bakes. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want it to overcook. Look for that perfect golden brown top and bubbling edges!
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to switch up the cheeses! Try adding some creamier mozzarella for extra gooeyness or crumbled feta for a tangy kick. There are no rules here—just deliciousness!
- Chill Before Serving: If you have leftovers, let the dip cool completely before storing it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to three days, and I swear, the flavors deepen as it sits!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable Neiman Marcus dip that’ll have everyone raving about your cooking skills!
Variations of the Neiman Marcus Dip 12 Tomatoes
Ready to take your Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes to the next level? There are so many fun ways to customize this dip and make it your own! Here are some variations that I absolutely love:
- Cheese Swaps: Experiment with different cheeses to create unique flavor profiles! Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or some creamy goat cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings its own personality to the dip!
- Herb Medley: While fresh basil is a standout, you can mix in other herbs too! Chopped fresh parsley or dill can add a refreshing note. For an Italian twist, throw in some oregano or thyme to elevate the flavor further!
- Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in some extra nutrients? Finely chop vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini and mix them in. They’ll add color and texture while enhancing the dip’s health factor!
- Savory Add-Ins: For a little extra umami, consider mixing in some cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham. It adds a wonderful depth and makes it even more satisfying!
- Spicy Surprise: If you’re a fan of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Just a little can bring a delightful kick that balances out the creaminess!
- Seasonal Flavors: Change things up depending on the season! In the fall, mix in some roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree for a cozy twist. In the summer, fresh corn or even diced avocados can bring a fresh, bright flavor!
- Sweet and Savory: For a unique flavor contrast, try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to the mix. It creates a sweet undertone that pairs beautifully with the savory ingredients!
These variations let you play with flavors and textures, making the Neiman Marcus dip your own masterpiece. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the delicious journey of experimenting with this fabulous dip!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this incredible Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes, and now you’ve got some leftovers. No worries—this dip is just as delicious the next day, and I’ve got the scoop on how to store and reheat it to keep all that creamy goodness intact!
Storing Leftovers: First things first, let your dip cool completely before storing. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. This is super important because it helps prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days, but trust me, it probably won’t last that long because it’s just too good!
Reheating Tips: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, I recommend reheating the dip in the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip back into an oven-safe dish if you stored it in something else. Cover it with aluminum foil to help retain moisture while it warms up. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly. If you want to get that top a little crispy, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed to your liking. Keep an eye on it, as microwaves can make it hot in a hurry!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes again and again. Happy dipping!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note before you dig into this deliciousness! The nutritional information provided for the Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. Factors like the type of cheese or mayonnaise can make a difference, so always double-check if you have specific dietary needs. I want you to enjoy this dip without any worries!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the Neiman Marcus dip featuring 12 tomatoes? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my best tips and suggestions to help you make the most of this fabulous dip.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, which will still give you that creamy texture without all the fat. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened to keep the flavor profile intact!
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
No worries at all! You can use dried basil in a pinch, but remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. A good rule of thumb is to use about a third of the amount, so try 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead. Alternatively, fresh parsley or oregano can also add a delightful twist!
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, I encourage it! You can prepare the dip a day in advance, just mix everything together and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven to bake. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious!
What should I serve with the dip?
The options are endless! This dip pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers. I love serving it with crunchy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh veggies like carrots and bell peppers for a healthier touch. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun twist!
How can I make this dip spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top after it comes out of the oven for an extra kick!
Is there a way to make this dip gluten-free?
You bet! Just make sure to use gluten-free crackers or bread for dipping. The dip itself is already gluten-free since all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. So you can enjoy it without any worries!
Feel free to reach out with any other questions you might have! I’m here to help make your Neiman Marcus dip adventure as delightful as possible!
Print
Neiman Marcus Dip 12 Tomatoes: Creamy Deliciousness Unveiled
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy dip featuring tomatoes, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and mayonnaise.
- Add chopped tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix in basil and garlic powder.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm with crackers or bread.
Notes
- Can be made a day in advance and baked before serving.
- Adjust the amount of garlic powder to taste.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: neiman marcus dip, tomato dip, creamy dip, appetizer recipe
