Chili Cheese Spread
A creamy, spicy chili cheese spread perfect for dipping or filling tortillas, combining smooth cheese, hearty chili, and fresh cilantro for a flavorful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a soft tortilla with shredded cheese.
- Microwave for 45 seconds until melted.
- Top with chili and Ortega thick and smooth taco sauce.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier spread, consider blending the cream cheese and chili together before microwaving. If you want to spice things up, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. For a vegetarian option, ensure the chili is meat-free. This recipe also works beautifully with leftover chili from dishes like Party Bean Dip or Hot Nacho Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chili Cheese Spread as a fun appetizer at your next gathering, paired with tortilla chips or fresh veggies. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Nora'S Mexican Cornbread. This dish pairs perfectly with a light salad or guacamole for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spread in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also serve it cold as a dip with tortilla chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Cheese Spread contains roughly 511 calories, with 28g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (469% of the Daily Value), iron (185% of the Daily Value), and calcium (96% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili cheese spread a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving, and it will still be delicious. This makes it a great option for gatherings or game day snacks.
What kind of chili should I use?
You can use canned chili of your choice based on your preference for spice and ingredients. Vegetarian chili works well for a meat-free version, while traditional beef chili adds a hearty flavor. Just ensure it complements the cream cheese.
Can I add other toppings to the spread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture. Experimenting with toppings can create a unique twist each time you make the spread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).