Meaty Chili Cheese Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is rich, flavorful, and completely satisfying. The combination of ground meat, chili, and melted cheese creates a gooey, indulgent dip that’s easy to make and even easier to devour. It’s also versatile—you can adjust the spice level, add your favorite ingredients, and use it as a dip for chips, nachos, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Plus, it’s made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans, depending on preference)
• 1 packet taco seasoning or chili seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced green chilies or jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies for dipping

Directions

1. Cook the meat: In a large skillet or pan, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add seasonings and chili: Stir in taco seasoning (or chili seasoning) and the can of chili. If you’re using chili with beans, just pour the whole can in; if not, add a little extra water or broth to help make the mixture a bit saucy.
3. Mix in cheese and creaminess: Lower the heat and add cream cheese (if using), sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheeses melt.
4. Heat through: Let the dip simmer on low for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella on top of the dip and cover the skillet. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and enjoy: Remove from heat and serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion size.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to bring the heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more beans, vegetables (like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini), or even crumbled tofu for a hearty, meat-free alternative.
• Extra Cheese: Use different cheeses like pepper jack, Colby, or even Velveeta for extra creaminess.
• Taco-Inspired: Top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream for a taco-inspired dip.
• Southwest Twist: Add black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime for a southwestern flair.

Storage/Reheating

This dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If the dip thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to get it back to a creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving, and it’ll still be delicious!

How can I make this dip spicier?

To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or use a spicier chili. You could also mix in some chipotle seasoning or chili flakes.

Can I use a slow cooker for this?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and add the ingredients to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 2-3 hours, then top with cheese right before serving.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning and check the chili for any gluten-containing ingredients, this dip can be made gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free chips for a totally safe snack.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

You can make a dairy-free version by using dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and plant-based cheese alternatives.

How can I make this dip more filling?

To make it more substantial, you can add more beans, corn, or even cooked chicken or turkey to the dip for added protein.

Conclusion

This Meaty Chili Cheese Dip is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Warm, cheesy, and loaded with savory chili flavor, it’s a dish that’s sure to be the star of the party. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, make it as spicy as you like, and enjoy every melty, delicious bite.

Meaty Chili Cheese Dip

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Meaty Chili Cheese Dip combines the richness of chili, savory meat, and melted cheese in a creamy, indulgent dip. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in, it’s a crowd-pleaser served with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
• 1 packet taco seasoning or chili seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced green chilies or jalapeños (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies for dipping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in taco seasoning and chili. If using chili without beans, add water or broth to make it saucy.
3. Add cream cheese (if using), sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Let the dip simmer on low for 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
6. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.

Notes

• Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate, then reheat before serving.
• For a spicier dip, add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes.
• Use different cheeses like pepper jack for extra heat or Velveeta for extra creaminess.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8th of the dip
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 50mg