Easy Chili Dip Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Chili Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the bold flavors of chili and a crispy topping. The layers of tangy cream cheese, savory ground beef chili, and melted cheese create a rich and satisfying dip that’s perfect for game days, parties, or a fun snack. It’s easy to make, can be prepared in just a few steps, and is served with Fritos Scoops for the perfect bite. Top it with fresh green onions, tomatoes, and crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ cup sour cream, divided
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1 (15-ounce) can chili with beans or 2 cups homemade chili with beans
• 4 ounces pre-shredded Mexican-style 4-cheese blend (about 1 cup)
• 1 green onion, sliced
• 1 plum tomato, chopped (about ½ cup)
• ¼ cup crispy fried onions (such as French’s)
• Corn chip scoops (such as Fritos Scoops), for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Cream Cheese Base:
   In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, onion powder, and 2 tablespoons of the sour cream until thoroughly blended. Use a silicone spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch deep pie plate or 10-inch oven-safe skillet. Set aside.
3. Cook the Chili Layer:
   • Heat the canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground beef and kosher salt to the skillet, cooking and breaking up the meat into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned, crispy in some spots, and most of the moisture has evaporated, about 8 to 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the cooked beef to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Do not wipe the skillet clean.
   • Add the chili to the same skillet and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
   • Once the chili is heated through, remove from the heat and stir in the reserved beef. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, if desired.
4. Assemble and Bake the Chili Dip:
   • Spoon the chili mixture over the cream cheese base, spreading it evenly.
   • Sprinkle the shredded Mexican-style cheese over the chili.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dip is warmed through.
5. Top and Serve:
   • Remove the dip from the oven and top with sliced green onions, chopped tomatoes, and crispy fried onions.
   • Serve immediately with Fritos Scoops and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sour cream for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations and Tips

• Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the chili layer for an extra spicy kick.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, for a different flavor.
• Protein Variations: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dip.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and use vegetarian chili or beans and corn for a delicious meatless dip.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a low oven (around 300°F) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chili instead of canned chili?

Yes, homemade chili works great in this recipe! Just ensure it’s thick and has enough seasoning to add flavor to the dip.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it as instructed, or reheat it in the oven.

Can I make this dip without the sour cream?

Yes, you can omit the sour cream or substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Add sliced olives, avocado, or even shredded lettuce as extra toppings before serving for a fun twist.

How do I make this dip spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chili layer, or top with a spicy cheese like pepper jack for more heat.

Conclusion

Easy Chili Dip is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, combining the richness of creamy cheese, hearty chili, and melty cheese into one irresistible dip. With the added crunch of fried onions and the fresh toppings, this dip is both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you serve it for a game day snack or a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit every time!

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