This warm and cheesy chili dip is perfect for parties or movie nights! With melty cheese and zesty chili, it’s like a hug in a bowl. Who can resist a scoop with chips?
I love making this dip because it’s super easy and always a hit! Just mix, heat, and serve. It’s extra fun to watch everyone go back for seconds. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Either works well for this dip! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap in ground turkey. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to use cooked lentils or black beans instead for a hearty alternative.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor. Yellow or white onions are great choices, but if you prefer a milder taste, use green onions or scallions instead.
Chili with Beans: Canned chili makes this recipe super quick! You can use your favorite brand, or if you like it spicier, choose a chili that’s labeled hot. For a homemade touch, consider simmering chili made from scratch.
Cream Cheese: It provides a creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, there are great vegan cream cheese alternatives available. Full-fat cream cheese creates a richer dip, which I personally love!
Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese: The blend offers great taste! If you want an extra kick, use pepper jack cheese. For a lower-fat version, try reduced-fat cheeses, but keep in mind the consistency may vary.
How Can You Ensure Your Dip is Creamy and Delicious?
The secret to a creamy dip lies in how well you combine the ingredients! Here’s how to achieve the best results:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. It blends easier and creates a smoother dip.
- When combining the cheeses, mix them in a bowl first to ensure even distribution. This prevents clumps in your dip.
- Let the dip bake until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. This adds a delicious crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth dip.
With these tips in hand, your chili cheese dip will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy with crispy tortilla chips for the best experience!
Chili Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili with beans or your favorite canned chili
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chili Cheese Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, so overall, you’ll need about 30 minutes before you can dig in. Quick and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dip will bake evenly and get bubbly.
2. Cook the Meat and Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or turkey. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir it all together and cook until the meat is browned and the onions are soft—about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Mix in the Chili:
Now, stir in the can of chili with beans. Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. This adds a fantastic flavor base!
4. Create the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until all the cheese is well combined and creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cheese mixture to the skillet with the meat and chili. Stir everything together until well blended and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Carefully transfer the dip mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Now sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness!
7. Bake It:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is melted and bubbly—just the way we like it!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a nice pop of color and freshness. Grab those tortilla chips and get ready to enjoy!
Dig into this rich, cheesy chili dip that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option that works well in this dip. Just cook it the same way as you would the beef for delicious results!
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute cream cheese with a mix of sour cream and yogurt for a similar creamy texture. Just use about 1 cup in total to maintain the dip’s consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Use lentils or beans in place of the meat, and opt for plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheese varieties to keep it fully vegan-friendly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally.