This creamy and cheesy chili dip is perfect for any party! Just throw everything in the Crockpot and let it do the work. It’s warm, gooey, and super comforting!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make. I love serving it with tortilla chips. Just make sure to have some napkins on hand—things can get a bit cheesy! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I usually go for ground beef for its rich flavor, but turkey is a great leaner option. You could also substitute with vegetarian crumbles if you’re looking for a meat-free choice!
Chili with Beans: You can use canned chili or homemade chili if you have some available. If you’re avoiding beans, just pick a chili without them! Don’t be afraid to spice it up a bit if you love heat.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and richness to the dip. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cream cheese. You’ll still get that wonderful texture!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack for a different flavor. If you want a stronger taste, try sharp cheddar.
Diced Green Chilies: These are optional but flavorful! If you’re not a fan of spice, you can skip them or use a milder variety.
How Do I Ensure My Dip is Smooth and Creamy?
To achieve a smooth and creamy dip, it’s important to follow these steps:
- Cook the ground meat properly and drain the fat—this prevents excess grease.
- Mix the cream cheese in well; cube it for easier melting. You can even soften it for 15-20 seconds in the microwave first.
- Stir frequently during cooking to keep the cheeses from settling and burning.
- Don’t rush it! Let it cook until hot and bubbly for that silky texture.
These simple techniques will result in a delightful dip that everyone will love! Plus, the flavors really come together after some time in the Crockpot.
How to Make Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 (15 oz) can chili with beans (or your favorite chili)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream and extra shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
- Tortilla chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes of prep time and will need to cook in the Crockpot for 2-3 hours on low or about 1 hour on high. Perfect for setting and forgetting while you prepare for your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until it’s completely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dip from being greasy.
2. Combining Ingredients:
After the meat is cooked, transfer it to the Crockpot. Next, add the can of chili (with beans), cubes of cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced green chilies, black beans, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients well.
3. Cooking Time:
Cover your Crockpot and set it to low for 2-3 hours or high for about 1 hour. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to make sure everything melts nicely and gets blended together. You’re looking for a hot, bubbly, and gooey dip!
4. Garnishing and Serving:
Once the dip is ready, scoop some sour cream on top and sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra flavor and presentation. Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and hearty Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip! It’s going to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well in this recipe and can bring a lighter taste to the dip. Just cook it thoroughly before adding it to the Crockpot, just like you would with beef or turkey.
How Can I Make This Dip Vegetarian?
To make this dip vegetarian, simply omit the ground meat and substitute it with more beans (like pinto or kidney beans) or use a meat substitute. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, for extra texture and flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to make sure it heats evenly.
Can I Freeze This Dip?
Yes, you can freeze the dip! Make sure it cools completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm up in the microwave or Crockpot.
