Dogfood Dip
A creamy, cheesy chili dip with a spicy kick, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, served with crackers or tortilla chips for a savory snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread softened cream cheese evenly in the bottom of a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Top with the can of no bean Hormel chili.
- Add a dash of Tabasco sauce to taste on top of the chili.
- Sprinkle evenly with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Bake until warm and the cheese is thoroughly melted.
- Serve with crackers or tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding a little sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mix. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, swap out the Hormel chili for a hearty black bean chili. Don't forget to adjust the Tabasco sauce to your heat preference; a little goes a long way. This dip is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with our favorite 'Family' Birthday Cake for a sweet finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip hot, accompanied by a variety of crackers or tortilla chips for dipping. It also pairs nicely with fresh veggie sticks for a healthier option. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside our Pistachio Nut Dessert for a sweet and savory snack spread that your guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dogfood Dip contains roughly 129 calories, with 8g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value), and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% 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 dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish and cover it with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and heat it in the oven as directed. This is a great time-saver for parties.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture but will still result in a delicious dip.
Is this dip spicy?
The spice level of this dip primarily depends on the amount of Tabasco sauce you add. For a milder flavor, start with just a dash and taste before adding more. If you prefer no heat, you can omit the Tabasco entirely.
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).