Chili Cheese Dip is a crowd-pleasing, creamy, and flavorful dip that’s perfect for parties, game day, or just a cozy snack. With the hearty goodness of chili and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit! Here’s an easy recipe to make this delicious dip:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans, depending on preference)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra spice)
- Tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced veggies for dipping
Instructions:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
- If using, dice the onion and jalapeños.
- Shred the cheddar cheese if not using pre-shredded cheese.
2. Combine Cream Cheese and Chili:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the can of chili. Stir until smooth and combined. If you prefer a thicker dip, use chili without beans.
3. Add the Cheese and Sour Cream:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, cumin (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything together until the cheese begins to melt and everything is well combined.
4. Heat the Dip:
- Stovetop Method: Transfer the dip mixture to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is heated through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the dip mixture into an oven-safe dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
- Microwave Method: Transfer the dip mixture into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the dip is warm and the cheese is melted (about 3-4 minutes total).
5. Add Optional Garnishes:
- Once heated, top the dip with diced onions, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of extra cheese for added flavor.
6. Serve:
- Serve your Chili Cheese Dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping. You can also serve it with slices of baguette or pita chips.
Tips:
- Make it spicier: Add more jalapeños, hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Use a vegetarian chili if you prefer a meatless version of the dip.
- Make ahead: This dip can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
- Add ground beef: For extra heartiness, cook and add some browned ground beef to the chili mixture before mixing in the cream cheese and other ingredients.
This Chili Cheese Dip is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy!
