This chili cheese dip is a warm and cheesy treat that everyone will love! It’s packed with hearty chili and gooey cheese, making it perfect for parties or cozy movie nights.
Trust me, once you start dipping, it’s hard to stop! I love serving it with tortilla chips and watching friends fight over the last scoop. Enjoy it warm for the best cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dip its hearty base. If you prefer a lighter option, use ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
Chili: Using canned chili is convenient, but you can also make your own to control the spice level and ingredients. Low-sodium varieties are available if you’re watching your salt intake.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Rotel adds flavor and heat. If you want to tone it down, use regular diced tomatoes. A splash of hot sauce can also give it a kick.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These add creaminess. Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream for a lighter option. You can skip cream cheese, but it makes the dip extra rich!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a classic taste. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for additional flavor. Just ensure it melts well.
How Can I Achieve the Best Cheese Stretch?
The secret to that beautiful cheese pull lies in how you layer and bake the dip. First, ensure your cheese is freshly shredded as pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent melting properly.
- Compress the cheese after sprinkling it on top; this helps it melt into the dip’s layers.
- Bake until bubbly, but don’t overcook, as cheese can get rubbery if left too long.
Letting it cool a minute before serving also enhances the stretchiness when you scoop out the dip!
How to Make Chili Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 jalapeño, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili cheese dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dip in just under 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your dip is assembled.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Mix in the Main Ingredients:
Now, stir in the chili, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook the mixture for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and combined nicely.
4. Add the Creamy Components:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream and cream cheese until everything is fully blended and smooth.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the dip mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
6. Cheese it Up:
Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Make sure to cover the whole surface for that delicious cheesy melt!
7. Bake the Dip:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
8. Let it Rest:
Once baked, carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. This helps avoid burns and allows the cheesy goodness to settle.
9. Garnish:
Top your dip with sliced jalapeños and chopped cilantro for a fresh kick!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the dip warm with tortilla chips for dipping. Get ready for a cheesy, spicy treat that everyone will love!
Enjoy your gooey, spicy chili cheese dip!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. It will still provide a fantastic flavor when cooked with the onion and garlic.
Can I Make This Dip Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a can of black beans or kidney beans for added protein. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or corn for texture and flavor.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of cream or milk to help restore the creamy texture.
Can I Prepare This Dip in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time! Assemble the dip without baking it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
