Baked Cowboy Dip Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Baked Cowboy Dip

This delicious dip is perfect for any gathering, blending creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors into one mouthwatering dish. Below is the step-by-step guide to prepare this indulgent appetizer.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces hot Italian sausage links, casings removed
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups frozen sweet corn, thawed and drained
• 1 (14 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced Hatch green chiles
• cup diced fresh jalapeo peppers
• cup sliced green onions
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

Topping

• 2 tablespoons grated sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon sliced green onion, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425F (220C).

Step 2: Place the sausage links in a dry pan over medium heat. Cook them, using a spoon or flat wooden spatula to break them up as they cook. Continue cooking for 10-12 minutes until the sausage is browned and crumbly. Once cooked, remove from the heat and drain any excess grease, if desired.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, 4 ounces of grated Cheddar cheese, thawed corn, cooked sausage, fire-roasted tomatoes with chiles, Hatch green chiles, diced jalapeos, sliced green onions, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and smooth out the top. Sprinkle the remaining grated Cheddar cheese on top, along with a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Step 5: Place the baking dish on a sheet pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dip is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Once baked, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top before serving.

Chef's Notes

• Feel free to use any kind of melty cheese instead of Cheddar, and you can substitute regular diced tomatoes if you prefer less heat.
• For the best flavor, opt for premium sweet corn rather than a cheaper brand.
• If you'd like to serve this dip cold, skip the baking and follow Steps 2, 3, and 5.
• To make this dish ahead of time, follow Steps 2 and 3, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the remaining steps.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	261
Total Fat	22g (29%)
Saturated Fat	12g (61%)
Cholesterol	62mg (21%)
Sodium	516mg (22%)
Total Carbohydrates	8g (3%)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4%)
Protein	9g (17%)
Potassium	202mg (4%)

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

Origin and History

The Baked Cowboy Dip, also known as "Cowboy Casserole" or "Cowboy Dip," is a popular dish that originates from the Southwestern United States, particularly from Texas and the neighboring regions. This dip draws inspiration from Tex-Mex flavors and combines rich, creamy textures with spicy elements like jalapeos and chiles. The dish likely gained popularity due to its hearty and filling ingredients, making it a perfect choice for gatherings, parties, and sports events like the Super Bowl. Though the exact date of its creation is unclear, its rise to fame can be attributed to the food culture of the American Southwest, where ranchers and cowboys would often rely on rich, substantial meals to fuel their long days. Over time, this dish evolved, incorporating various regional ingredients like spicy sausage, cheese, and corn, creating a savory and indulgent dip.

Regional Features

Cowboy dips appeal lies in its blend of flavors and versatility. The key ingredientscream cheese, sausage, cheddar cheese, and cornare commonly found in Southwestern and Tex-Mex dishes. The inclusion of Hatch chiles and fire-roasted tomatoes with green chiles adds a distinctly regional flair, lending the dip its signature smoky and slightly spicy flavor. These regional ingredients not only enhance the dips flavor but also reflect the influence of the Tex-Mex cuisine that is so popular in the southwestern United States. The dish is often customized by adding other regional favorites, like black beans, chorizo, or even bacon, depending on personal taste and the occasion.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While there are many cheesy dips in the appetizer world, such as classic spinach and artichoke dip or buffalo chicken dip, Baked Cowboy Dip stands out due to its bold combination of ingredients. The use of sausage (often spicy Italian sausage or chorizo) creates a meaty base that sets it apart from other dips that are typically vegetarian or based on lighter proteins like chicken. Additionally, the incorporation of sweet corn and fire-roasted tomatoes gives the dip a balance of sweetness and smokiness, which is less common in other cheesy dip recipes. The addition of jalapeos and green chiles provides a level of heat that makes it perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice with their cheesy comfort food.

Where It Is Usually Served

Baked Cowboy Dip is often served at casual events like tailgates, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its a go-to appetizer at parties, especially for Super Bowl watch parties or other sporting events, thanks to its ability to please a crowd and be easily served with chips or crackers. The dip is typically presented in a large baking dish, making it easy to share and enjoy with friends and family. Some variations may even feature additional toppings like bacon bits or more jalapeos, which add to its customizable and hearty nature. Its comfort-food status has made it a favorite at potlucks and holiday gatherings as well.

Interesting Facts

• Baked Cowboy Dip is known for its versatility; you can customize it by adding different types of cheese, meat, or even a variety of spices to suit your taste.
• Although the dip is often associated with Tex-Mex cuisine, its not exclusive to Texas. It has been embraced across the United States, particularly in regions with a strong Mexican-American influence.
• Some versions of the dip incorporate ranch dressing or barbecue sauce for added flavor, making it even more adaptable to different palates.
• The dip can also be served cold as a spread, but its baked version, with bubbly cheese and a crispy top, is the most popular method of preparation.

FAQ about Baked Cowboy Dip Recipe

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