Mason-Dixon Dip
Creamy, cheesy chili dip with a hint of green onion, perfect for parties and gatherings. Rich flavors that pair well with tortilla chips and satisfy any crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat chili in a saucepan for 5 minutes.
- Press softened cream cheese into the bottom of a 1-1/2 quart baking dish.
- Pour chili over the cream cheese and sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with chopped green onions.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. If you want to add some heat, mix in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute the sharp cheddar with a blend of mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply use a meatless chili.
Serving Suggestions
This dip is perfect as a game day snack or party appetizer. Serve it warm alongside tortilla chips, pita chips, or fresh veggies for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with other appetizers like Appetizer Roll-Ups for a full spread. Consider adding a fresh salsa or guacamole on the side for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in short intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mason-Dixon Dip contains roughly 466 calories, with 21g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 816mg per serving (35% 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 prepare this dip in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions.
What type of chili should I use?
You can use any variety of chili, whether it's canned or homemade. For a milder flavor, opt for a traditional chili without beans. If you like it spicy, try a chili with added peppers or beans for texture. Just ensure it complements the cream cheese and cheddar flavors.
Can I make this dip gluten-free?
Yes, this dip is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free tortilla chips for serving. Always check the labels on your chili and cream cheese to ensure no gluten ingredients are included. You can also serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers.
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).