This Chili Cheese Dip is a warm, cheesy delight! Made with spicy chili, gooey cheese, and just the right seasonings, it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
It’s so easy to whip up—you just mix, heat, and serve! I love scooping it up with tortilla chips. Just a heads up, you’ll want to keep some extra on hand; it disappears fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds heartiness to the dip. For a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version!
Onion and Bell Pepper: These bring great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use any onion and bell pepper you have. Frozen mixed vegetables can work too!
Cream Cheese: The creamy base is essential. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
Cheddar Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for a great flavor boost. However, feel free to mix in Monterrey Jack or pepper jack for some extra spice!
Chili: A can of chili is super convenient but you can always use homemade chili. You can control the heat by choosing spicy or mild varieties!
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Dip Is Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that super creamy texture is all about mixing properly. Start with softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. Make sure you stir it in well with the other ingredients. Here’s a quick step guide:
- Cook the meat and veggies fully before adding the cheese.
- Remove the skillet from heat before stirring in the cream cheese; this helps it blend easier.
- Use a spatula to fold in the cheeses gently until everything is combined smoothly.
Keep an eye on the dip while baking; don’t overcook as it can become tough! Letting it cool slightly before serving also helps thicken the dip a bit more.
Chili Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can mild or spicy chili with beans (or homemade chili)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chili Cheese Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, making the total time about 30 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and hot for your cheesy dip.
2. Cook the Meat and Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. As it cooks, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft. Then, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add the Flavor:
Stir in the can of chili (with beans), ground cumin, chili powder, and some salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together.
4. Mix in the Creaminess:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Now, stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is mixed together well and creamy.
5. Bake the Dip:
Carefully transfer this cheesy mixture to an oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it off with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
6. Time to Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and has that lovely golden brown color.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the dip cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish it with some fresh cilantro leaves to add a nice touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in with tortilla chips while it’s warm! Enjoy the creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness of your Chili Cheese Dip!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works well in this dip. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s browned, just like you would with ground beef.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you love heat, try using spicy chili instead of mild. You can also add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the mixture for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve it, just pop it in the oven to bake it until bubbly and golden.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a little extra cheese if desired for creaminess!