Fiesta Chili Dip
Fiesta Chili Dip is a hearty, flavorful appetizer with spicy chili, melted cheese, and fresh green onions, perfect for parties and gatherings with crunchy chips or tostadas.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. ground chuck
- 2 large onions, chopped ⓘ
- 4 cloves garlic, mashed ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. sugar ⓘ
- 1 small bottle chili powder ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. cumin powder ⓘ
- 6-8 chili pequins ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. salt
- 1 Tbsp. black pepper ⓘ
- 2 large cans tomato sauce ⓘ
- 4 c. hot water ⓘ
- 2 cans hot tamales ⓘ
- 2 lbs. grated sharp cheese ⓘ
- 2 bunches green onions, chopped ⓘ
Instructions
- Put ground chuck, chopped onions, mashed garlic, sugar, chili powder, cumin powder, chili pequins, salt, and black pepper in a large heavy pot.
- Stir until the meat is no longer pink.
- Add tomato sauce and hot water to the mixture.
- Cover the pot and simmer for approximately 3 hours.
- Cool the mixture and refrigerate overnight.
- Remove the grease from the top of the mixture and reheat.
- Add sliced hot tamales and cook until they disintegrate.
- Add grated sharp cheese, reserving 2 cups, and stir until melted.
- Divide the chili into two oblong baking dishes.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and melt in the oven.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
- Serve with tostadas or chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, feel free to add more chili pequins or a diced jalapeño. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground chuck with a mix of black beans and lentils. Additionally, using fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the flavor profile. When simmering, consider adding a splash of lime juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
This fiesta chili dip is perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Serve it with South-Of-The-Border Chips or alongside tostadas for a crunchy contrast. Pair with a refreshing salad for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a hearty appetizer. It also goes well with a side of guacamole or sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili dip for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fiesta Chili Dip contains roughly 132 calories, with 7g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% 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 in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows for deep flavor development.
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).