This warm and cheesy dip is perfect for gatherings! Made with chili and melted cheese, it’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. Just toss everything in your Crockpot and relax!
I guarantee this dip will be the star of your next party! Everyone loves cheese, and the simplicity of making it is just the cherry on top. Serve it with tortilla chips for maximum fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like the flavor of ground beef in this dip, but you can use turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using a mix of sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
Chili: You can choose any canned chili you prefer. If you’re avoiding beans, look for chili labeled “no beans.” Homemade chili is great too, if you have the time!
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess. You could substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter touch or use a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re on a dairy-free diet.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added spice. Just remember to keep some for the topping for that melty goodness!
Sour Cream: If you’re out of sour cream, plain yogurt works well. It’ll still give you that tangy flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Dip is Smooth and Creamy?
To achieve that silky finish, follow these tips during preparation:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Stir the ingredients thoroughly in the crockpot to break any clumps and mix flavors uniformly.
- When cooking, stir occasionally; this helps the ingredients blend and ensures even heating.
- For a super creamy dip, leave the lid on the crockpot as the cheese melts to trap the steam!
Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can chili (with or without beans)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Crackers or tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high for cooking in the Crockpot. You’ll have a warm, cheesy dip ready to enjoy in just a few hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dip from being greasy.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, mix together the cooked ground beef, chili, softened cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Give it a nice stir until everything is blended well. It’s like a cheesy hug for your taste buds!
3. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. If you’re using the low setting, let it cook for 2-3 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, make it on high for 1-2 hours. Remember to stir occasionally to keep everything nice and smooth.
4. Add the Cheesy Topping:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the last 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the dip. Cover it again to let the cheese melt into gooey perfection.
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for added color and flavor. Serve the dip warm directly from the crockpot, alongside your favorite crackers or tortilla chips. Dive in and enjoy the scrumptiousness!
Enjoy your rich, cheesy Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip with friends and family! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or sautéed mushrooms as substitutes for the meat.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like some heat, you can add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix. Just adjust to your preferred spice level!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just combine everything in the crockpot and let it cook 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. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
