7-layer B. L. T. Dip

There are many layered dip recipes out there - I have a couple of excellent ones in my collection, too. But this is a tasty new version that I think you'll enjoy! :)

• Ready In: 10 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 8  ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise or 1⁄4 cup vegetarian mayonnaise (Vegenaise)
• 1⁄4 cup sour cream or 1⁄4 cup plain yogurt
• 1⁄4 cup  grated parmesan cheese
• 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
•  salt and pepper, to taste
• 1  cup  minced iceberg lettuce
• 1⁄4 cup  minced water chestnut (the crunch is nice) (optional)
• 3⁄4 cup  shredded cheddar cheese
• 3⁄4 cup  shredded monterey jack cheese
• 8  slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled or 8  slices vegetarian bacon
• 4  roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped
• 3  green onions, chopped

Directions

1. Combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste in a bowl.
2. Spread the mixture onto a serving plate.
3. Mix together the minced lettuce with the water chestnuts (if using).
4. Top the cream cheese mixture with remaining ingredients, in order: lettuce/water chestnut, the cheeses, cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped tomatoes, and green onions.
5. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Serve with bread rounds or pita chips for dipping.
7. Note: you can also mix the water chestnuts into the cream cheese mixture instead of into the lettuce, if you prefer.