This Chili Cheese Dip is a warm, cheesy delight that’s perfect for sharing. With spicy chili and gooey melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
I love serving it with crunchy tortilla chips. You can’t go wrong with a dip that’s so simple and tasty! Just mix it up, pop it in the oven, and enjoy with friends. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds flavor and heartiness to the dip. You can swap it for ground turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Chili: A good quality canned chili with beans works great, but feel free to use homemade chili if you have it. If you want less spice, opt for chili without beans or a milder flavor.
Cream Cheese: Provides that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use Greek yogurt instead, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Shredded Cheeses: Sharp cheddar is a must for its bold flavor. You can use any cheese you prefer or have on hand – gouda, pepper jack, or even a vegan cheese mix.
How Do I Ensure My Cheese Dip is Super Creamy?
Getting that perfect creaminess in your dip is all about the right technique. Start by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it blend smoothly without lumps.
- Cook your beef and onions well before adding the chili to develop flavor.
- Mix the cream cheese in one spoonful at a time, making sure it fully melts into the mixture before adding more.
- Finally, don’t rush the baking. Bake until everything is bubbly and golden brown for that delightful cheesy texture!
Chili Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can chili with beans or your favorite prepared chili
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, for a total of 30 minutes. With just a bit of cooking and baking, you’ll have a deliciously cheesy dip ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will be the perfect temperature to melt all that delicious cheese later on!
2. Cook the Beef and Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Be sure to drain off any excess fat—nobody wants greasy dip!
3. Combine the Chili:
Next, pour in your can of chili. Stir it well to combine with the beef mixture and heat it through. This is where your dip starts to get flavorful!
4. Add Cream Cheese:
Now, stir in the softened cream cheese. Keep mixing until it’s fully melted and everything is blended nicely together. You want it to be creamy!
5. Season It Up:
Add the chili powder, cumin, and black pepper to the mix. Stir well so all those spices are evenly distributed. This will give your dip an extra kick!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your cheesy mixture into an ovenproof dish or a bowl suitable for baking. Smooth it out so it’s even.
7. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the optional Monterey Jack cheese over the top evenly. Who can resist extra cheese?
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for that beautiful, bubbly cheese!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s ready, carefully remove it from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions for a little fresh flavor. Serve hot with tortilla chips for dipping.
10. Enjoy!
Grab some friends, dig in, and enjoy this creamy, spicy dip! It’s a fantastic addition to any gathering.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or a Meat Alternative?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lower-fat substitution, and you can also use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before combining with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or even some hot sauce to the mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste to avoid overwhelming the dip!
Can I Prepare This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chili cheese dip up to 24 hours in advance. Just assemble the dip without baking it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream cheese if it seems thick.
