Hot Pork Roll and Cheese Dip

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Pork Roll Dip

For folks from New Jersey like me, there are some very heated debates. Jets or GIants? Bruce or Bon Jovi? Sprinkles or jimmies? And, of course, pork roll or Taylor ham?

If you are not from New Jersey, you are probably asking, what the heck even is pork roll, aka Taylor ham? It is a processed meat made from ground up pork that is spiced and seasoned to perfection, then packed into a cotton bag to form the well-known tube shape. Just like a good Jersey diner or bagel shop, you will want to slice it, pan-fry it, then pile it onto a bagel or Kaiser roll with eggs and cheese. This is the quintessential way to enjoy this Garden State classic that is so popular it even has a festival dedicated to it.

Today, I’m turning this iconic sandwich into a melty appetizer perfect for when you are watching the aforementioned Giants or Jets! Browned bits of pork roll swimming in a sea of creamy goodness make this a game day snack that’s perfectly spiced with the tangy sharpness of good cheddar cheese. I’m sure this dip will turn you into a pork roll superfan. Here’s why…

• Easy to make. Since the pork roll is already nice and seasoned, you get tons of flavor with only a few ingredients. Just stir it all together, top it with cheese, and pop it in the oven.
• Fun to eat. While you can definitely set it out with your usual platter of veggie, crackers, or tortilla chips, it’s extra enjoyable to scoop up with bagel chips. Gluten free ones are hard to find, but you can make your own gluten free bagel chips using store bought ones or my homemade gluten free plain bagels or, for more flavor, gluten free everything bagels.
• Gluten free-friendly. Speaking of GF, you will need to check the brand of pork roll or Taylor ham you use. Most do not have any gluten-containing ingredients, but do not indicate they are gluten free. Case’s makes gluten free pork roll.

Recipe Ingredients

Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need to make this pork roll dip. Scroll down to the recipe card for the full amounts and instructions on how to make it.

• Pork roll. Also known as Taylor ham. You cna buy it as a long or in slices, you’ll just want to dice it into 1/4-inch cubes
• Cream cheese. Softened to room temperature to make it easier to mix. You can use regular or light, but not fat free.
• Plain Greek yogurt. I usually use nonfat, but lowfat or whole milk yogurt are fine. You can also substitute sour cream.
• Nutmeg. This boosts the flavor of any type of cream sauce or mixture. It can be omitted.
• Cheddar cheese. Sharp or extra sharp is recommended, but you can use your favorite.
• Items to dip. Bagel chips are great, or use vegetables, crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced of French bread.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Fridge – Any extra pork roll and cheese dip should be covered with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerated. It will keep for 2 to 3 days.
• Freezer – I do not recommend freezing this dip as it will separate and become watery due to the dairy ingredients.
• Reheat – You can place the whole pan back in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until it is hot and melty again, or microwave individual portions. Just check it frequently to avoid overheating as that cam cause the oils to separate form the cheese.