Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip

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Turn up the heat and let the creamy goodness flow with this Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip. Whether you’re hosting a game night, prepping for a holiday party, or just craving something savory and spicy, this dip is guaranteed to be the star of the snack table. With a luscious base of melty cream cheese and a kick of chili, it combines smooth, spicy, and hearty flavors in each bite.

This is a go-to recipe when you’re looking for something quick, crowd-pleasing, and outrageously delicious. No complicated prep or long ingredient list—just bold flavors and cheesy satisfaction ready in minutes. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, so you might want to double it just in case.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip

It’s the ultimate comfort food for spice lovers. The creaminess of the cheese tones down the heat just enough, while the chili adds a bold savory depth. Plus, it’s baked to perfection, which means it comes out warm, bubbly, and ready to scoop with chips, bread, or veggies. This dip also holds up great for game days and gatherings, staying warm and tasty on a hot plate or slow cooker.

What Makes This Dip So Good?

The beauty of this dip is in its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, and the result is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It works great with canned chili, making it a fast pantry-friendly option. Want to elevate it? Try homemade chili, add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before baking, or even throw in some jalapeños for an extra punch. You’ve got options!

What Kind of Chili Should I Use?

Canned chili with or without beans both work beautifully here. If you’re in a rush, go with your favorite canned brand—something with a little spice and hearty texture. But if you have leftover homemade chili from dinner, that’s even better. For those who like things really spicy, try a chili that uses habaneros or hot green chilies. The dip is wonderfully versatile, so go with what you love.

Ingredients for the Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip

This dip keeps things simple and satisfying. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and hearty.

• Cream Cheese
• Chili (canned or homemade)
• Cheddar Cheese
• Green Onions (optional for garnish)
• Tortilla Chips (for serving)

Start with cream cheese as the rich, creamy base. It softens beautifully in the oven and gives the dip that signature velvety texture.

Then comes the chili, the heart of the dish. Use a spicy canned chili or your own homemade version to build bold flavor and warmth.

Next, melt in some cheddar cheese for added gooeyness and sharp flavor. It pulls the whole thing together and gives that irresistible cheesy finish.

Top with freshly chopped green onions for a hint of freshness and pop of color if you like.

Don’t forget tortilla chips or sliced baguette for scooping. This dip deserves good company.

How To Make the Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip

Step 1: Soften the Base

Spread a layer of softened cream cheese in the bottom of a small oven-safe baking dish. Let it come to room temperature so it spreads more easily.

Step 2: Layer with Chili

Spoon your chili right over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly. Whether you go canned or homemade, make sure it’s warm and full of flavor.

Step 3: Add Cheddar Goodness

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chili. You want a solid cheesy blanket that will melt and bubble in the oven.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling

Pop the dish into a preheated 375°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with green onions and serve immediately with tortilla chips. Serve it straight out of the baking dish for a rustic feel or transfer to a warm dip bowl.

How to Serve and Store Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip

This dip is best served hot out of the oven, when the cheese is gooey and the chili is piping. Pair it with sturdy dippers like tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or even veggie sticks like celery and bell peppers.

It’s perfect for sharing and feeds about 6 people as an appetizer. If you’re serving a larger crowd, go ahead and double the recipe in a larger casserole dish.

Leftovers? Just cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can even reheat it in a slow cooker for a hands-off option at parties.

What to Serve With Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip?

Cheesy Garlic Bread

All that spicy, creamy goodness begs for a thick slice of garlic bread to mop it up.

Crispy Jalapeño Poppers

Add even more heat to your spread by serving this dip alongside some crispy jalapeño poppers.

Chicken Wings

Classic wings bring the party vibes and make a fun pairing for this bold dip.

Baked Potato Wedges

Thick-cut potato wedges are sturdy enough for scooping and totally satisfying.

Loaded Tater Tots

A crunchy, cheesy side dish that complements the creamy heat perfectly. Try it with these Loaded Tater Tots.

Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Sweet and salty bites like these always disappear fast when there’s chili dip nearby.

Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Balance out the spice with something soothing like our Creamy Broccoli Pasta.

Cheesesteak Tortellini

It may sound bold, but trust us—pairing it with Cheesesteak Tortellini is pure indulgence.

Want More Dip Ideas with a Kick?

If you love this spicy, cheesy flavor profile, don’t stop here. Try one of these next:

• Meaty Texas Trash Dip for a hearty Tex-Mex classic.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce when you’re in the mood for a cheesy pasta spin.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a mellow yet flavorful option.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a fast and creamy skillet solution.
• Creamy Beef and Shells for another comfort-filled, easy dinner twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack or party food board so you can whip it up anytime the craving hits.

Tried this Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip? Let me know in the comments how spicy you went, or if you snuck in extra cheese—no judgment here!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and indulgent dips on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and get inspired to create something crave-worthy every day.

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