Imagine a dip so irresistible that it becomes the star of every gathering, a creamy, spicy sensation that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Gail's Chili Cheese Dip is not just another appetizer – it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich, hearty taste of chili with the smooth, tangy goodness of cream cheese and the sharp bite of cheddar. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a family get-together, or just craving a delicious snack, this dip promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that takes just 30 minutes to prepare!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chili
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), creating an ideal baking environment for the dip.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Add the entire can of chili to the cream cheese and mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Finely dice the onions and slice the jalapeños, ensuring uniform size for even distribution of flavor.
- Fold the diced onions and sliced jalapeños into the chili and cream cheese mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9-inch baking dish or oven-safe casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the mixture, covering the entire surface.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the dip cool for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Let your cream cheese sit out for about 10 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free blending.
- Cheese Selection: For extra flavor, try using a mix of cheeses like pepper jack or monterey jack alongside the cheddar.
- Spice Control: Adjust the jalapeños to your heat preference – remove the seeds for a milder dip or add more for extra kick.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dip up to a day in advance and reheat it in the oven just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Beyond chips, try serving with toasted baguette slices, pretzels, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
- Leftovers Hack: If you have any remaining dip, it makes an incredible topping for nachos or a spread for sandwiches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 70mg
