If there's one thing I know for sure, it's that a good party starts with a great dip! And this Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip? Oh, it's the kind of cheesy, scoop-it-up, go-back-for-seconds goodness that has everyone hovering around the slow cooker.
Whether you're hosting game day, having friends over, or just looking for an excuse to break out the tortilla chips, this one's a keeper! Just be warned, you might want to make a double batch because nobody's stopping at one scoop!
What makes this a must make for tailgating
Tailgating is all about good food, great friends, and cheering on your favorite team, not spending the whole party fussing over appetizers! That's why this dip is a game-day winner.
It's hearty enough to satisfy a hungry crowd, easy to transport, and stays warm in the slow cooker so everyone can help themselves. Plus, there's no fancy serving required. Just set out a big bowl of tortilla chips and let everyone dig in. Trust me, this dip might get more attention than the game!
And if you're feeding a crowd, why stop at one appetizer? Add a platter of Tater Tot Nachos and a batch of Sticky BBQ Chicken Wings to round out your game-day spread. Trust me, with snacks like these, nobody's going home hungry!
Who knows? The food might get more attention than the game! 🏈
Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip
Equipment
- 1 Crockpot
Ingredients
- 30 ounces canned chili with or without beans (I used 2 cans of Hormel No Beans)
- 8 ounces cream cheese cut into cubes
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded from the block
- sliced green onion or pickled jalapenos for garnish optional
Instructions
- Spray the inside of a crockpot with cooking spray or use a crockpot liner.
- Add the chili to the bottom of the crockpot. Next, add the cubed cream cheese, followed by the salsa.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for two hours.
- Remove the lid and stir well, making sure the cream cheese is fully melted and combined into the chili and salsa.
- Add the shredded cheddar, replace the lid, and cook for another 15-20 minutes until the cheddar cheese is fully melted.
- Once the cheddar is fully melted, give the dip another stir and turn the crockpot to "Keep Warm".
- Serve straight from the crockpot and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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Ingredients
Please refer to the printable recipe card for the exact measurements for this recipe.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ's)
Absolutely! Have leftover homemade chili in the fridge? Even better! Substitute about 4 cups of your favorite homemade chili for the canned chili. Just make sure it's nice and thick so your dip doesn't turn out too runny.
I recommend shredding your own cheese from a block. I know, it's one more step, but trust me, it's worth it! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking ingredients that can keep it from melting as smoothly. Freshly shredded cheese gives you that creamy, gooey goodness we're after!
You've got options! Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, American cheese, or pepper jack are all delicious choices. Velveeta works beautifully for an extra creamy dip, too! You can even mix and match your favorites. Just avoid aged, dry cheeses that don't melt as smoothly.
Once the dip is ready, switch your slow cooker to the Keep Warm setting. It's great for parties because everyone can help themselves! Just make sure the dip stays at 140°F or hotter for food safety, and give it an occasional stir to keep everything creamy.
Deb's top tip
Spice it up! Like a little heat? Use hot salsa, swap the salsa for a can of drained Rotel tomatoes, or toss in a diced jalapeño or two! A small can of green chiles adds great flavor, and a pinch of cayenne will really turn up the heat. Start small and add more to taste. You want a little kick, not a five-alarm fire! 🔥
Test kitchen notes
Keep the double-dippers at bay! Set out small bowls and a ladle so everyone can scoop up their own serving. That way, everyone can dip to their heart's content without sharing more than the good food! (If you know what I mean!😂)
More great dip recipes
If you're like me and believe you can never have too many good dip recipes, I've got a few more you'll love! My Ground Beef Taco Dip is hearty, cheesy, and always a crowd favorite. The Lipton Onion Soup Spinach Dip is a classic that's perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you need an easy appetizer.
And don't miss my Easy Quesadilla Dip! It's another delicious option for your next get-together! With these recipes in your back pocket, you'll be the MVP of the snack table!
Game time
Well, there you have it, my friend! Another easy appetizer that's sure to earn a permanent spot in your party lineup. Whether your team wins or loses, at least you know the snacks will be a hit! So grab your chips, gather your favorite people, and dig in!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got some football to watch and a big bowl of cheesy goodness calling my name! 🏈 Before you go, be sure to save this recipe for your next game day gathering. Trust me, you're going to want to make it again!
Sue Turcsany says
How easy can you get! great suggestion to use on hot dogs and hamburgers--- It's been way too long since I've had a great chili dog. (not trying for another win---I always comment on recipes that I want to try). Might also be good if you mixed it into macaroni and cheese for something different.
Carol says
This dip is perfect for the next Sunday Football get together. Even better, if there is any leftover, I can freeze and that for the next football game we watch.