For the Carnivores

Here is my version of Neiman Marcus Dip (no bacon)

• 8 oz smoked sausage, chopped OR 1 1/4 cups cooked (in butter or oil) and finely chopped button or cremini mushrooms

• 1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened 

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 8 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded 

• 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions, plus more for garnish 

• 1/2 cup lightly toasted sliced almonds, plus more for garnish 

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika if using mushrooms plus optional liquid smoke

• 1 tsp. black pepper 

• 1 tsp. hot sauce

Directions:

1. Cook sausage in a skillet until browned and some fat renders.  Chop it small while it’s warm.
2. If using mushrooms, cook them in a little butter or vegetable oil (not olive oil) and chop finely.
3. Mix cream cheese and mayo in a large bowl.
4. Fold in cheese, green onions, almonds, pepper, hot sauce, and cooked saugage/mushrooms until just combined. 
5. Add smoked paprika if using mushrooms. You can add a drop of liquid smoke if you want that flavor, but no more than 1 drop.
6. Garnish with more almonds and onions if desired.
7. Serve with your favorite crackers, crudites, or tiny thin slices of firm bread.