Mardi Gras is coming up quick- it's this coming Tuesday, March 01. Maybe you are celebrating this weekend? Our community is having lots of Mardi Gras celebrations over the next week, so hopefully I'll get to one.. or at least grab a beignet or two!

I'll be honest, I don't have the paitence much these days for baking & frying pastry, like beignets. I'll leave that to the professionals this year and share with you another one of my favorites that gathers folks together for any celebration. 

No matter if you are partying Mardi Gras style, hosting Friday night game night or having the crew over for Saturday/ Sunday game  day(even though Spring training is being delayed, it is still basketball season, right?? I know it's not March madness yet!), then add this cheese dip to your recipe log!

When it's baked, it's not your traditional runny cheese dip. The Crumbled Crackers combined with the bacon make it heavenly, but it's texture won't resemble nacho cheese or any "runny" dips of such. On top of a ritz, the salty goodness is soo.. well, finger licking good! You might need to make 2 dishes just to get through your event! 

I was first introduced to this dip via my friend's mom when I was in grad school. Who doesn't fall in love with hot cheese, crumbled crackers, and bacon? (okay, maybe all of you who are lactose intolerant and/or vegan will have to take a pass at this one..) 

Go ahead! Try it! Happy Mardi Gras!