Bookmark
Cheesy baked dips are always a hit but this Frito Chili Cheese Dip knocks it out of the park with layers of hearty chili spices super creamy cheddar and a topping of crispy bacon for good measure. By building flavor with fresh ground beef chili beans and a few pantry add-ins you get all of that football-watching comfort food magic without grabbing a can. This is the kind of dippable indulgence that disappears fast no matter how many people you have gathered around the table.
I first threw this together for a Sunday game and my entire crew was scraping the edges of the serving bowl before halftime. It is hands-down the most requested appetizer in this house.
Ingredients
- Ground hamburger: gives the dip richness and a hearty bite choose 80 20 for juicier results
- Rotel tomatoes: bring tang and gentle heat use the original or hot variety for more spice
- Chili starter beans and chili sauce: combine to deliver classic hearty chili flavor look for options with lower sodium if you want to control seasoning
- White onion and green onions: add lots of punch plus freshness layer both if you like a sweet onion base and a zippy finish
- Cheddar cheese: provides melty creaminess and sharpness always shred your own for a smoother melt
- Cream cheese: gives this dip ultra creaminess and marries all the flavors together soften before mixing for easy blending
- Crispy bacon: adds crunch and a smoky hit cook until deeply golden for best flavor
- Chili powder garlic powder paprika and cumin: bring depth try toasting the spices in the skillet for a little extra oomph
- Salt and pepper: season everything thoroughly tasting as you go
- Brown sugar and hot sauce: balance the spices and wake up all the savory notes add more for a bit of sweetness or punch
- Always buy the freshest produce and good-quality cheese for the cleanest flavor in your dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- In a heavy skillet over medium heat sauté ground hamburger with white onion about 6 minutes until the meat is deeply browned and some crispy bits form in the pan this adds so much richness to the dip
- Mix the Dip:
- In a large mixing bowl combine softened cream cheese shredded cheddar browned beef and onions Rotel tomatoes chili starter green onion and all the seasonings stir really well until everything is evenly coated check for salt and adjust as needed
- Bake the Dip:
- Butter an oven-safe skillet or a deep baking dish spread the chili cheese mixture in evenly bake uncovered in a preheated 375 degree oven for 10 minutes until bubbly and hot through
- Add Bacon and Finish:
- Sprinkle cooked crispy bacon over the top return the dish to the oven for about 2 to 3 minutes just to warm the bacon and let the edges get slightly golden finish with fresh green onion and any other favorite toppings
- Serve Hot:
- Spoon the bubbling dip right onto a serving platter and set out with Fritos Scoops for dunking serve immediately for perfect gooey pulls and lots of crunch
Bookmark
My favorite part is always the salty crunchy Fritos paired with the creamy cheesy chili base. When my dad tried this at our last family get-together I caught him sneaking a second helping after everyone else said they were full.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in a 325 degree oven or quick zap in the microwave. For longer storage scoop the dip into small freezer-safe containers and store up to one month thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
No beef Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For vegetarians swap in a can of drained lentils and a touch more cumin. Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack if you prefer even more subtle spice or add smoked gouda for extra depth. Vegan cream cheese and vegetarian chili beans work too.
Serving Suggestions
This is a true party dip but it also makes a killer topping for baked potatoes over rice or in a burrito bowl. Spoon leftovers onto split slider rolls for mini chili cheese sandwiches kids love it this way.
Bookmark
Cultural and Historical Context
Chili cheese dips have roots in Tex-Mex cuisine blending classic flavors of American chili with the all-the-way comfort of warm melty cheese and corn chips. The Frito brand actually originated in Texas and has been synonymous with chili cheese snacks at state fairs and sporting events for generations.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I make the dip creamier?
Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. For extra creaminess, add a little more cream cheese or a splash of milk when mixing.
- → What are some topping ideas for extra flavor?
Top with extra crispy bacon, chopped green onions, fresh jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
- → Can I make this in advance?
Yes, assemble the dip up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.
- → What are the best dippers for serving?
Fritos Scoops are ideal, but tortilla chips, pita chips, or sliced veggies also work well with this hearty dip.
- → How can leftovers be used?
Leftover dip makes a tasty topping for hot dogs, burgers, or even as a filling for baked potatoes or nachos.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Add more chili powder or hot sauce for heat, or reduce them for a milder, kid-friendly version.