Chili Dip Recipe

Name: Chili Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened; 1 (15 ounce) can chili without beans; 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, drained

Cook Time: 5 minutes

This simple and delicious dip is perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a creamy, spicy dip that will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (15 ounce) can chili without beans
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, drained

Directions

Step 1: In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, combine the cream cheese, chili without beans, and diced tomatoes with green chile peppers.

Step 2: Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute. After 1 minute, remove from the microwave and stir the ingredients together.

Step 3: Return the bowl to the microwave and heat again on high for 1 more minute. Stir once more until the dip is hot and the ingredients are thoroughly blended.

Step 4: Serve warm with your favorite chips, crackers, or vegetables. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Amount per Serving	Percentage Daily Value
Calories	37
Total Fat	3g (4%)
Saturated Fat	2g (9%)
Cholesterol	10mg (3%)
Sodium	110mg (5%)
Total Carbohydrate	2g (1%)
Dietary Fiber	0g (1%)
Total Sugars	0g
Protein	2g (3%)
Vitamin C	1mg (1%)
Calcium	10mg (1%)
Iron	0mg (2%)
Potassium	37mg (1%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This Chili Dip is a simple, yet delicious dip made from cream cheese, chili without beans, and diced tomatoes with green chile peppers. It's the perfect addition to any party or game day gathering.

History and Origin

The origins of Chili Dip are tied to the Tex-Mex cuisine, a blend of traditional Mexican ingredients with American influences. This dish, like many Tex-Mex creations, became popular in the southwestern United States, especially in Texas, where chili is a staple. While the exact origin of this dip is unclear, it is believed to have evolved in the 20th century as a quick and easy party snack. The dish has gained widespread appeal due to its simplicity and bold flavor, making it a favorite at tailgates, BBQs, and family gatherings.

Regional Variations

As with many popular dishes, regional variations of Chili Dip exist across the U.S. In Texas, where chili is a beloved dish, the dip may include more complex ingredients such as ground beef, jalapeos, or even different types of cheese. Some regions prefer to use a spicy chili with beans, while others keep it simple with chili without beans. The addition of diced tomatoes with green chiles is a signature flavor for many, but some might opt for salsa or Rotel for an extra kick. Depending on the region, you might also find this dip served with tortilla chips, Fritos, or even as a topping for nachos.

How It Differs from Similar Dips

Chili Dip stands out from other cheese dips and Tex-Mex appetizers due to its combination of hearty chili and smooth cream cheese. Unlike traditional cheese dips, which rely on melted cheese as the primary ingredient, this dip uses cream cheese to create a rich, creamy texture that complements the chili's spiciness. In contrast to dips like queso, which focus on cheese and sometimes meat, Chili Dip integrates the complex flavors of chili without beans, offering a satisfying depth. It's a more substantial dip that pairs well with thicker chips like Fritos or tortilla chips, making it unique among similar offerings.

Where It's Typically Served

Chili Dip is a crowd-pleaser at casual gatherings, particularly at football games, tailgates, or BBQs. Its the kind of dish thats easy to prepare and can be kept warm in a slow cooker for hours. Many people serve it as an appetizer at parties, where it is paired with crunchy snacks like tortilla chips, crackers, or Fritos Scoops. Its versatility also allows it to be enjoyed as a topping for nachos, baked potatoes, or even as a side dish to complement grilled meats. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a great dish for spontaneous gatherings where guests can help themselves to a hearty, flavorful snack.

Interesting Facts

The combination of chili and cream cheese has become a popular fusion in the world of dips, especially in the southern United States.
Chili Dip is often served at events like Super Bowl parties, where its a hit for its ease of preparation and the ability to serve large groups.
Despite being a Tex-Mex dish, Chili Dip can be found in many other regions, often tailored with local ingredients or spices.
The dips popularity has led to various versions of it being published online and in cookbooks, each with its unique twist on the ingredients.

Whether youre looking to impress at a party or simply craving a spicy, creamy snack, Chili Dip is the perfect choice. Try it today and enjoy the comforting flavors of Tex-Mex in a bowl!

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FAQ about Chili Dip Recipe

Leftover chili dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Yes, you can prepare the chili dip ahead of time. Combine all the ingredients and refrigerate the mixture before microwaving it when you're ready to serve. This will help save time, especially for parties or gatherings.

Yes, you can freeze chili dip. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with sour cream or a lighter version like Greek yogurt if you prefer. However, the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

To make the dip spicier, you can add extra diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili powder. You can also use chili with beans that contains a spicier blend of spices.

Yes, a slow cooker is a great way to keep chili dip warm for extended periods. Set it to low heat to avoid thinning out the dip, and stir occasionally for even heating.

For large groups, you can serve the chili dip in a large serving dish or slow cooker. Make sure to have plenty of dipping options like tortilla chips, Fritos, or sliced vegetables on hand.

Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken to the dip to make it heartier. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before mixing it into the dip.

You can add a variety of ingredients to the chili dip for extra flavor, such as shredded cheddar cheese, onions, or bell peppers. You can also try swapping the tomatoes with salsa or adding a bit of cream for extra richness.

This recipe is not vegetarian due to the use of chili without beans. However, you can substitute the chili with a vegetarian-friendly chili, such as a bean chili or a meatless chili alternative.

Comments

Allrecipes Member

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This is a GREAT recipe for parties. I make it in the slow cooker on low so it stays hot, if you keep it on high the dip thins out. Variations: use 1 can of nacho cheese soup and 1 pk of cream cheese with the chili - it's creamy with spice to give it a kick. It is best with Fritos Scoop corn chips. Thank you for the recipe, I use it all the time.

littlehemmy

05/30/2010 12:08:02 PM

Yummy!!! I made this for a party in the crockpot. Used two cans of chili with beans, 2 cans of Rotel tomatoes w/green chilis, 2 blocks of cream cheese. I added chili seasoning for extra flavor and shredded sharp cheddar to thicken it a bit. I kept it hot in the crockpot and kept refreshing the serving bowl with it. The guests went through it like crazy! We served it with Frito's Scoops. This was a big hit and SO easy to make.

Sarah Jo

01/15/2011 12:59:34 PM

HUGE hit with my boys. I used reduced fat cream cheese, chili with beans (because that was all I had on hand), fire roasted tomatoes and a can of green chilies only because I don't keep Rotel on hand. I threw it all in my mini crockpot on low after breakfast and it was set to go by lunchtime. They INHALED it in less than an hour. Awesome for our dip weekends.

Dave Kinney

12/27/2016 12:58:38 AM

If you want to make this a five star dish add 1 cup of cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon of chipotle chili sauce 1 teaspoon of cumin and 1/4 cup of salsa. Then cook it in an oven until it bubbles in the middle at 350° . It will get an ugly crust but just stir it all up add some cheese on top with a little bit of chili pepper on top for garnish place back in the oven for two minutes or until cheese is melted...let it set, then serve.

Rita Hall

12/08/2022 08:59:52 PM

Yes I added a pound of cooked ground chuck beef with onions and peppers everyone said they love it 😊 I know they did it was all gone 😊😊😊

Trish-the-Dish

02/13/2023 05:32:22 AM

I added 1/2lb. ground beef, garlic, onions, green pepper, serrano peppers. Spices: onion and garlic powders, cayenne, black pepper, Kosher salt, and cumin. Some cheddar cheese, sour cream and salsa too. I wanted it to have more of a homemade chili taste. Overall, it was good, but didn't knock my socks off. I would rate this 3 1/2-4 stars. Served warm with tortilla chips.

SweetBasil

10/20/2011 05:08:49 PM

Had some leftover homemade chili so threw this together for football watching on Sunday. Only additions were a little garlic powder and some shredded pepper jack cheese on top. Really tasty!

Keri

07/04/2019 10:08:43 PM

This was good. However, I will add cooked hamburger meat with garlic and onion the next round. Will also add more green chiles (than what the Rotels have) just because we like our food a little spicy. Did add a splash of Siracha afterwards and it kicked it up a little. Thanks for the recipe!

Fran

07/13/2019 01:52:27 PM

I made this for a family barbecue party and it was a super hit. I did add a shredded Mexican cheese blend and used it to stuff those sweet snacking peppers. It had just enough heat. For more heat add some red pepper flakes or even jalepenos instead of sweet peppers.

BusyBeeTami

02/03/2013 06:18:45 AM

I used 1 1/2 c of my home made chili in place of the canned chili...amazing!

Karen Saurer

12/31/2024 07:13:31 PM

First and foremost , this chili cheese dip is easy to prepare exactly as described. Delicious dip. Popular with guests. Tweaks are acceptable but not necessary in order to please my friends and family. We don’t serve it in a slow cooker because we don’t have convenient outlets to plug in warming devices. I use a crockery type serving dish. It retains heat somewhat. We run the dip through a microwave every thirty minutes or so to reheat. That’s the only downside to this trusty old, but popular dip for chips. For some reason, most of the long ago dip recipes are preferred at tailgates, family gatherings, and appetizer only parties.

MatureGlass1535

02/06/2025 09:51:17 PM

Love how good this is and easy to make

Karen Saurer

12/31/2024 07:13:31 PM

Kenzie

04/29/2024 01:42:23 AM

Trish the dish: you gave it 3 stars but completely changed the recipe. So you gave your own recipe 3 stars. Amazing. This was good as written. Guests liked it.

Nicholas Wilson

03/21/2024 12:34:48 AM

Even my teen nephew loved it.

Ccooks

06/28/2023 04:29:20 PM

Definitely easy to make, and tasty.

CoralWater2254

02/13/2023 01:34:09 PM

This was a tasty and quick Superbowl snack. My guests devoured it.

luvs2cook

12/28/2022 11:14:41 PM

Oh my goodness, this dip was delicious and a huge hit with everyone here on Christmas Eve. I have always loved Chili restaurants bean dip and wished I could make it at home. Well, this tastes a lot like it but only better. It will definitely be a regular at our house.

Garfield49

12/17/2022 07:57:07 PM

I've been making this FAST recipe for years, with and without beans in the chili, and have never added the tomatoes!! Everyone loves it, can't guess how easy it is. I always have the ingredients for drop-ins.

SweetDill4505

05/04/2022 06:21:54 PM

mmmm yummy yummy in my tum tum mmmmm

Cook Time: 25 minutes