Cream Cheese Chili Dip Recipe
Cream Cheese Chili Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer combining smooth cream cheese, tangy sour cream, flavorful ranch seasoning, hearty canned chili, and a melty nacho cheese blend. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, this dip is easy to prepare and satisfying to share.
- Author: Dana
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers and Party Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Base Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 oz ranch dressing mix
Chili Layer
Topping
- 2 cups shredded nacho cheese blend
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the dip.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a square 9-inch or 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer Cream Cheese Mixture: Transfer the creamed base mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to form the first layer of the dip.
- Add Chili Layer: Pour the canned chili evenly over the cream cheese layer and gently spread it out for consistent coverage.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded nacho cheese blend evenly over the chili layer, covering the dip completely.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is bubbling hot.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle chopped chives on top for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth texture without lumps.
- You can use your favorite brand or type of canned chili; mild or spicy depending on preference.
- Feel free to substitute the nacho cheese blend with cheddar or Monterey Jack if desired.
- For a spicier dip, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the base mixture.
- Serve with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (about 1/2 cup)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: cream cheese dip, chili dip, party appetizer, baked dip, easy dip recipe, ranch dip, nacho cheese dip