This Easy Chili Cheese Dip is the ultimate comfort food for game day, parties, or just when you need a cheesy, hearty snack. With layers of cream cheese, spicy chili, and melted cheddar, this dip is ready in no time and guaranteed to be a hit. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or even veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or having a cozy night in, this dip will satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Fresh veggies (such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips) for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Assemble the Dip
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to make sure the layer is smooth and even.
- Pour the chili over the cream cheese layer and spread it out evenly. You can use chili with or without beans, depending on your preference.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chili layer. Make sure the cheese covers the chili completely for an even melt.
- If desired, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika over the cheese for an extra depth of flavor.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and jalapeños, if desired.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or your favorite dippers. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Chili Choice: Use your favorite canned chili, either with or without beans. You can also use homemade chili if you prefer. If you want to add more protein, go for a hearty beef or turkey chili.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy spreading. This helps create an even layer that mixes well with the other ingredients.
- Cheese Selection: Cheddar works great, but you can also use a Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of extra spice. Using a mix of cheeses can add more depth of flavor.
- Make It Spicy: If you like your dip on the spicier side, add a few dashes of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the chili layer before baking. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top.
- Layering Tip: Be sure to layer the ingredients evenly for a consistent flavor in every bite. You can use a spatula or spoon to make sure each layer is spread smoothly.
Variations
- Vegetarian Chili Dip: Use vegetarian chili for a meatless version of this dip. You can also add black beans, corn, and chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Layered Dip: Add a layer of salsa on top of the cream cheese before adding the chili for an extra kick of flavor. You can also layer refried beans under the cream cheese for added texture.
- Refried Beans: Add a layer of refried beans under the cream cheese for even more texture and flavor. This addition makes the dip heartier and more filling, which is perfect for larger gatherings.
- Extra Cheesy: Use a combination of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack for an extra cheesy dip. The mix of cheese adds a delicious gooey texture to every bite.
- Tex-Mex Version: Add a layer of corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes for a Tex-Mex twist. Top it all off with some cilantro for a fresh touch.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you want to keep the dip warm for a longer period, you can make it in a slow cooker. Layer all the ingredients as described and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until everything is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This Chili Cheese Dip is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dippers:
- Tortilla Chips: The classic choice for dipping into this cheesy goodness.
- Crackers: Saltine crackers or buttery round crackers are perfect for scooping up the dip.
- Fresh Veggies: Serve with sliced bell peppers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or cucumber rounds for a lighter option.
- Bread: Toasted baguette slices or breadsticks also make a great option for dipping.
- Nachos: Pour the dip over a plate of tortilla chips to make a quick and easy plate of nachos.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the instructions. This makes it a perfect option for parties or gatherings where you want to minimize prep time.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Stirring it halfway through reheating helps ensure even heating.
3. Can I Make This Dip in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To make this dip in a slow cooker, layer the ingredients as you would in a baking dish. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the cheese is fully melted and everything is heated through. This method is great for keeping the dip warm during a party.
4. What Can I Serve with Chili Cheese Dip?
This dip is great with tortilla chips, but you can also serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies like celery, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips. It pairs well with a variety of dippers, making it a versatile appetizer.
5. Can I Add Meat to This Dip?
Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken to make this dip heartier. Simply cook the meat before adding it to the chili layer. This variation works well if you want to make the dip more substantial.
6. Is There a Way to Make This Dip Healthier?
To make a lighter version of this dip, use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat shredded cheese. You can also use a leaner version of chili, such as turkey chili, and serve the dip with fresh veggies for dipping instead of chips.
Easy Chili Cheese Dip is a simple, quick, and incredibly tasty appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just want a comforting snack, this dip is guaranteed to be a hit. With creamy layers of cheese, hearty chili, and just the right amount of spice, it’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast. Customize it to suit your preferences, and serve it with your favorite dippers for a snack that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and watch as everyone gathers around for a bite of this cheesy, delicious dip!