Name: Frito Chili Cheese Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef, cooked and drained; 1 block cream cheese, softened; 10 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained; 15 oz. can chili starter; 2.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (divided); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp chili powder; 2 tsp brown sugar; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 medium white onion, diced; Frito's Scoops for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings warmth and laughter to any gathering, then this Frito Chili Cheese Dip is your answer! This dip is everything you want in a party snack: cheesy, hearty, and so easy to whip up. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this for family game nights or casual get-togethers with friends. It’s always a hit, and honestly, who can resist dipping Frito’s Scoops into a bubbling bowl of chili cheese goodness?

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious appetizer ready for everyone to enjoy. Plus, it’s versatile enough for busy weeknights or festive celebrations. Just imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they dive into this warm dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Easy: You only need a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love scooping into this cheesy delight.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, movie night, or just because, this dip fits right in.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dip earlier in the day and pop it into the oven when guests arrive.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and cheeses creates an irresistible taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Frito Chili Cheese Dip, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; these are things you can find at any grocery store!

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground hamburger, cooked and drained
– 1 block cream cheese, softened
– 10 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained well (like Rotel)
– 15 oz. can chili starter (like Bush’s Chili Magic)
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 2 tsp brown sugar
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1-2 tsp hot sauce (I used Louisiana)
– 1/2 medium white onion, diced
– 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
– 5 strips bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
– 2 green onions, diced (green and white parts)
– Frito’s Scoops for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this Frito Chili Cheese Dip is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have at home or what flavors you love.

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger for a lighter option.
Add more veggies: Mix in some chopped bell peppers or black beans for extra texture and flavor.
Make it spicy: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or increase the hot sauce.
Go vegan: Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use lentils instead of meat.

How to Make Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your dip bakes evenly and gets nice and bubbly when we’re ready to dig in.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked ground hamburger, and all remaining dip base ingredients. Mixing them together until smooth is key; it helps meld all those wonderful flavors together beautifully. Taste it as you go! Adjust seasonings if needed—this is your dip!

Step 3: Bake It Up

Transfer your mixture into a greased oven-safe skillet (a cast iron works wonders). Top it off with additional cheddar cheese before popping it in the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows everything to heat through while creating that glorious cheesy layer on top.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Once the initial baking time is up, sprinkle on the crispy bacon bits—trust me, they add such a tasty crunch! Return it to the oven for another few minutes until bubbly around the edges.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Finally, finish off your dip with diced green onions. They add freshness that balances out all that richness from the cheese and bacon. Serve warm alongside those irresistible Frito’s Scoops—and watch everyone enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Frito Chili Cheese Dip

This dip is sure to be a hit, and a few tips can make it even better!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of your dip, making it taste more vibrant and delicious. Opt for freshly shredded cheese and ripe tomatoes for the best results.
Adjust the spice level: If you like heat, feel free to increase the amount of hot sauce or add diced jalapeños. Tailoring the spice level will make the dip suit your taste perfectly.
Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is classic, try mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for added creaminess and flavor. Different cheeses can bring a unique twist to your dip.
Make it ahead of time: Preparing the dip a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just reheat before serving for a warm, comforting appetizer.
Serve it bubbly: To achieve that perfect bubbly texture, ensure your dip is heated through until it’s bubbling at the edges. This not only looks appetizing but also enhances the overall experience.

How to Serve Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Presentation can elevate any dish, and Frito Chili Cheese Dip is no exception! Here are some fun ways to serve it up:

Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese.
Sour cream: A dollop of dairy-free sour cream provides a creamy contrast that balances out the spices in the chili, making each scoop even tastier.

Side Dishes

Vegetable platter: Pair this dip with an assortment of crunchy vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers. They add freshness and crunch while offering a healthier dipping option.
Cornbread muffins: These sweet little muffins complement the savory flavors of the chili cheese dip perfectly. Their fluffy texture provides a delightful contrast with every bite.
Tortilla chips: For an extra crunch, serve with tortilla chips alongside Frito’s Scoops. This adds variety and gives your guests more options for dipping!
Guacamole: The creamy avocado goodness of guacamole pairs wonderfully with spicy dips like this one. It adds richness while keeping things light and fresh on your table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Frito Chili Cheese Dip will be an unforgettable addition to any gathering! Enjoy every last scoop!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Frito Chili Cheese Dip is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness any time. You can prepare it in advance for parties or simply save some for later!

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will keep well for about 3-4 days.
Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

To freeze, transfer the cooled dip into a freezer-safe container.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
For best results, allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

Thaw the dip overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Frito Chili Cheese Dip:

Can I make Frito Chili Cheese Dip without meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or even use beans for a hearty vegetarian version.

How do I spice up my Frito Chili Cheese Dip?

To enhance your Frito Chili Cheese Dip, consider adding more hot sauce or diced jalapeños. You can also experiment with different cheese types for extra flavor!

What should I serve with Frito Chili Cheese Dip?

Fritos Scoops are a classic pairing, but you can also serve it with tortilla chips, veggies like celery and bell peppers, or even pita chips for dipping.

Is there a way to make this Frito Chili Cheese Dip spicier?

Definitely! Increase the amount of chili powder or hot sauce according to your heat preference. Adding diced green chilies or jalapeños is another great way to amp up the spice level!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Frito Chili Cheese Dip as much as I do! Its warm and cheesy goodness is perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in. Remember, each scoop brings a comforting burst of flavor that everyone will love. Happy cooking!