This hot sausage cheese dip is a family favorite that I’ve made countless times, especially when we have gatherings or just need a snack to munch on. I remember the first time I made it for a game day party; everyone couldn’t stop asking for the recipe, and it has since become one of those go-to dishes for casual get-togethers. It’s easy to make, and with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect when you’re short on time but want something flavorful.
My husband loves spicy food, so I like using spicy sausage to give the dip a little kick. However, if you’re not a fan of too much heat, you can easily swap it for a milder version. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and tomatoes with green chilies makes this dip incredibly creamy, with just the right amount of tanginess. And the best part? It only takes 35 minutes to make, including prep and cooking time!
This dip is one of those recipes that is not only simple but also versatile. You can serve it with chips, veggies, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. I love that it’s always a crowd-pleaser, and there are never any leftovers. I usually whip this up when I want something comforting and quick, especially during busy weekends when we’re craving something hearty.
Making Hot Sausage Cheese Dip
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Jimmy Dean)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream (8 oz)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s fully browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Add the cooked sausage to the cheese mixture and mix again until well combined.
Spread the sausage and cheese mixture evenly in an 8-cup baking dish.
Bake for about 25 minutes or until the dip is heated through and bubbling around the edges.
Serve hot with tortilla chips, corn chips, or even veggies. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
This dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Cooking Tips
If you prefer a milder dip, you can swap the spicy sausage for a regular or mild variety. For added texture, consider mixing in some black beans or corn. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, but you can also serve it with sliced veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers for a lighter option. It’s also great as a filling for tacos or as a topping for nachos!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have spicy sausage on hand, ground beef or turkey can work as a substitute. You can also switch up the type of cheese—Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds a nice flavor twist. If you want a bit more creaminess, add extra sour cream.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, fresh diced tomatoes and jalapeños can be used in place of the canned tomatoes with chilies for a fresher flavor. During colder months, you can add a touch of smoked paprika or chili powder to give the dip a warm, comforting feel.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance. You can substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives. For a gluten-free version, ensure your sausage and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
FAQ
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and bake it when you’re ready to serve. It tastes just as delicious, if not better, when the flavors have had time to meld.
Can I freeze this sausage dip?
While you can freeze this dip, the texture may change slightly due to the cream cheese. If you choose to freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can use any cheese that melts well. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella are great alternatives that will add different flavors.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To amp up the spice, you can add chopped jalapeños or use hot diced tomatoes with chilies. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture for an extra kick.
What can I serve with this dip besides chips?
In addition to tortilla or corn chips, you can serve this dip with sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even toasted bread. It’s also great as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.
Can I make this dip without meat?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage and add a variety of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to keep it hearty and filling. You can also increase the amount of cheese for extra creaminess.
Hot Sausage Cheese Dip
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Jimmy Dean)
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup sour cream (8 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz, drained)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain off the excess grease.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir in the cooked sausage.
- Spread the mixture evenly in an 8-cup baking dish.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for around 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbling.
- Serve the dip with tortilla or corn chips for dipping.
