This Cream Cheese Sausage Dip is a creamy and cheesy delight that’s perfect for any gathering. With savory sausage and rich cream cheese, it’s super easy to whip up!
Serve it with crunchy chips or fresh veggies—everyone will want to dig in! I love making this for game day. It always gets gobbled up before I can grab a second bite! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: Choose either mild or spicy ground sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too—just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may need a bit less time.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for that creamy texture. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. I’ve tried cashew cream cheese, and it works well!
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for added flavor, but feel free to use mild if you like a smoother taste. You can also substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: If you can’t find Rotel, regular canned tomatoes work in a pinch; just add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for that extra zing.
Green Onions: They add a nice crunch. If you don’t have them, chopped cilantro can be a fresh substitute. Don’t skip the garnish; it makes a big visual difference!
How Do You Get Cream Cheese to Mix In Smoothly?
Getting cream cheese to blend smoothly can sometimes be a challenge. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using it. This softens it up and makes mixing simpler.
- Cut the cream cheese into chunks to speed up melting when you add it to the sausage.
- Stir vigorously as it melts. If you’re finding it hard to mix, you can even use a hand mixer for a super creamy dip!
How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy depending on preference)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Cream Cheese Sausage Dip takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect when you need a quick snack for game day or a last-minute get-together. Let’s dive into making it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir often until it’s nicely browned and cooked all the way through. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease from the pan to keep it from getting too oily!
2. Mix in the Cream Cheese:
Once your sausage is cooked, turn the heat down to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet with the sausage. Mix it all together until the cream cheese melts and is fully combined with the sausage. It should look creamy and delicious!
3. Add More Ingredients:
Next, stir in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and half of the chopped green onions. Keep stirring until everything is melted together and super smooth. Taste your dip and add salt and black pepper as needed.
4. Finish It Off:
Once everything is well mixed and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the dip to a serving dish. Top it off with the diced tomatoes and the rest of the green onions for a nice colorful touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Cream Cheese Sausage Dip is now ready to go! Serve it hot with tortilla chips or crackers on the side for dipping. Enjoy this creamy, savory treat that’s sure to please everyone!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding the cream cheese.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider using spicy sausage or adding extra chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper. You can also swap the mild canned tomatoes for the spicy variety!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time! Simply follow the instructions, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick!
