Print

Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Dip: Best Game Day Appetizer

slow cooker chili cheese dip - featured image
Print Recipe

This Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Dip is the ultimate game day appetizer—warm, melty, and slightly spicy, made with simple ingredients and perfect for feeding a crowd. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to enjoy the party.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chili with beans
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: diced jalapeños, sliced green onions, chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, crumbled bacon

Instructions

  1. Prep the cream cheese. Take the cream cheese out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start. Cut it into cubes so it softens faster. If you forget, microwave it on low power for about 15 seconds—just until it’s soft, not melted.
  2. Combine the seasonings. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), and a few cracks of black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Mix the creamy base. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  4. Layer in the slow cooker. Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom. Pour the can of chili over the top and spread it gently. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chili.
  5. Add the cheese. Sprinkle both shredded cheeses evenly over the top. Don’t stir yet.
  6. Cook on low. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours. Do NOT cook on high. After about 1.5 hours, give it a gentle stir.
  7. Stir and finish. Once the cheese is fully melted and the dip is hot all the way through, stir everything together until smooth and uniform. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If it’s too thick, stir in a tablespoon of milk or beer to thin it out.
  8. Add toppings and serve. Sprinkle with your desired toppings. Serve directly from the slow cooker on the ‘keep warm’ setting. Place a stack of sturdy tortilla chips right next to it.

Notes

Don’t rush the melt—cook on low to avoid grainy cheese. Shred your own cheese for the smoothest texture. Watch the salt, as canned chili, ranch seasoning, and cheese all contain salt. Stir gently to prevent the cheese from breaking. Keep the dip warm on the ‘warm’ setting for hours; if it thickens, stir in a splash of milk or beer.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chili cheese dip, game day dip, easy appetizer, chili cheese dip, crockpot dip

Find it online: https://cookluma.com/easy-slow-cooker-chili-cheese-dip-best-game-day-appetizer/