Easy 3-Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip: Perfect Game Day Appetizer
This creamy, spicy, and cheesy dip comes together with just three simple ingredients in under 10 minutes. Perfect for football parties, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili with beans (preferably Wolf Brand or Hormel)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Pickled jalapeños, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave in a bowl for 10-15 seconds. Cut into cubes to speed up softening.
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat or a slow cooker on low, combine the entire can of chili (undrained) and the softened cream cheese. Stir gently but constantly for 2-3 minutes until the cream cheese breaks down and blends with the chili.
- Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth, about 2-3 more minutes. The dip should be thick but pourable.
- If using, stir in garlic powder and onion powder. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Let the dip cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot and bubbly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with pickled jalapeños and green onions if desired. Serve with tortilla chips, pretzel bites, or sliced baguette.
Notes
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and shred cheddar from a block. If using a slow cooker, keep on warm for up to 4 hours; add a splash of milk if it thickens. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day. For a spicier version, use hot chili or add cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
Keywords: chili cheese dip, game day dip, 3-ingredient dip, easy appetizer, football party dip, slow cooker dip, cheesy dip