This Chili Cheese Dip is a warm and cheesy delight that’s perfect for parties or movie nights. Made with creamy cheese and hearty chili, it’s super simple to whip up!
I love to serve it with crispy chips, and you might catch me sneaking spoonfuls when no one is looking. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds a hearty flavor, but you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try crumbled tempeh or black beans.
Onion: A small onion gives a nice base flavor. Yellow onions work well, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can use green onions instead.
Chili: You can use canned chili for convenience or make your own. If you’re aiming for less spice, opt for a mild chili. Look for vegetarian chili if you want to skip the meat!
Cream Cheese: This helps create that creamy texture. You could replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, just keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of extra kick. Don’t forget to save some for the topping for that melty goodness!
How Do I Get the Perfect Melted Cheese?
Melted cheese is the star of this dip! To get it perfectly gooey, make sure to mix the cream cheese in well with the chili before baking. This ensures a smooth texture throughout.
- Combine the cream cheese when the chili mixture is still warm. It will melt easier.
- Layer the cheese on top, and bake until bubbly. The cheese should be fully melted.
- Adding the remaining cheese after baking keeps it melty and visually appealing!
Enjoy your delicious dip and happy snacking!
How to Make Chili Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can chili with beans (or homemade chili)
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chili Cheese Dip will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for quick gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the perfect temperature for melting that cheesy goodness!
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.
3. Stir in the Chili and Seasonings:
Add your can of chili with beans to the skillet along with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all those yummy flavors to blend.
4. Add the Cream Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cream cheese! Add it to the skillet and stir until it completely melts and combines with the chili mixture. This will make your dip creamy and rich.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Carefully transfer the warm chili and cream cheese mixture into a baking dish or an oven-safe bowl. Make sure to spread it out evenly so every bite is delicious!
6. Top it with Cheese:
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of your mixture. We all love that cheesy layer!
7. Bake:
Put the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly!
8. Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top so it melts into the warm dip.
9. Garnish:
Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch and a pop of color!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the dip warm with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and hearty chili cheese dip with family and friends. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat after browning to keep the dip from becoming greasy.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. You can also use spicy chili instead of mild varieties. Adjust the spices to your taste!
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dip a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it until heated through and bubbly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven, and stir to ensure even heating. Add a little extra cheese on top for that fresh melt!