Picture a bubbling skillet of chili cheese dip, the rich aroma of melted cheddar mingling with savory ground beef and tangy cream cheese.
This warm, indulgent appetizer is wonderfully simple to prepare, making it a beloved favorite for gatherings.
As the ingredients meld together, they transform into a creamy, irresistible dip that beckons you to plunge into with tortilla chips.
Let’s bring this comforting dish to life and enjoy the deliciousness!
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 large skillet
- 1 mixing spoon
- 1 serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili with beans
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Chili Cheese Dip, follow this timeline:
- Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
- Read through the recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients required.
- Prep Work (5 minutes)
- Gather all the ingredients and equipment needed, such as the large skillet, mixing spoon, and serving dish.
- Chop the green onions if you plan to use them as a garnish.
- Cooking (15 minutes)
- 0-5 minutes: Heat the large skillet over medium heat and begin cooking the ground beef until browned.
- 5-6 minutes: Drain the excess fat from the skillet.
- 6-8 minutes: Add the chili with beans, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet.
- 8-10 minutes: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 10-15 minutes: Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are melted and the dip is heated through.
- Resting (5 minutes)
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- During this time, you can clean up the kitchen or prepare any additional dippers like tortilla chips.
- Serving
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve the dip with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.
Adjust as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Add the chili with beans, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are melted and the dip is heated through.
Transfer the dip to a serving dish and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Serve with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.
Serving Tips
- Tortilla Chips: Classic choice for scooping up the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Crusty Bread: Offers a hearty and satisfying texture to complement the smooth dip.
- Vegetable Sticks: A lighter option, perfect for those looking to balance flavors and add crunch.
- Pita Bread: Soft and chewy, it pairs well with the rich flavors of the dip.
- Baked Pretzels: Adds a salty twist and a delightful contrast to the creamy dip.
Storage
To store chili cheese dip, let it cool to room temperature.
Then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Freezing
To freeze chili cheese dip, allow it to cool completely.
Then transfer it to an airtight container.
Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating Chili Cheese Dip, use a microwave or stovetop on low heat.
Stir occasionally. Guarantee even heating to maintain texture and flavor.
Avoid overheating to prevent cheese separation.
Final Thoughts
Chili Cheese Dip is a delicious and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering.
The combination of ground beef, chili with beans, and a creamy cheese blend makes for a savory and satisfying dish.
You can customize the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.
For an extra flavor boost, try mixing in different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
This dip can be prepared ahead of time and simply reheated when needed, making it a convenient choice for parties.
Serve it with tortilla chips, and your guests are sure to enjoy every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Turkey Instead of Ground Beef in the Dip?
You can definitely use turkey instead of ground beef. It infuses a lighter, leaner taste while still capturing that rich, savory depth. Sauté it to a golden brown, and let the spices beautifully meld for a delightful experience.
What Are Some Alternative Dippers Besides Tortilla Chips?
You’ve got plenty of options for dippers. Try crispy pita chips, crunchy celery sticks, or savory pretzel bites. Each offers a unique texture and flavor, enhancing the creamy, cheesy delight. Let your taste buds explore!
How Can I Make the Dip Vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils or black beans. Their earthy flavor and hearty texture create a delightful vegetarian experience. Add smoked paprika for depth, and let the gooey cheese and aromatic spices serenade your senses.
Is It Possible to Make This Dip in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely, you can use a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the cooker. Set on low, let the flavors meld and enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it cooks.
How Long Can the Dip Be Left Out at Room Temperature?
You can leave the dip out at room temperature for up to two hours. After that, bacteria can start to grow. Keep it creamy and delicious by serving it warm and storing leftovers in the fridge promptly.
Chili Cheese Dip Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 Mixing spoon
- 1 Serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can chili with beans
- 1 package cream cheese softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions optional
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the chili with beans, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are melted and the dip is heated through.
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.
Notes
