Mexican Salsa Chilli Dish
A creamy, spicy Mexican salsa chili dish featuring chili, picante sauce, and melted cheddar, perfect for sharing with tortilla chips at gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat out the cream cheese in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer the chili (no beans) over the cream cheese.
- Spread the picante sauce evenly over the chili.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in a 350° oven for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Serve hot with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before pressing it into the pan. You can substitute the chili with a vegetarian option for a meat-free version. If you prefer spicier salsa, opt for a hotter picante sauce or add diced jalapeños. This dish is perfect for parties, combining well with appetizers like Bean And Cheese Quesadillas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican salsa chili dish hot, alongside crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. It pairs well with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed as a topping for nachos. For larger gatherings, consider serving it as part of a spread with other Mexican recipes, like Layered Nacho Dip No. 2, to keep your guests satisfied.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Salsa Chilli Dish contains roughly 326 calories, with 18g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Simply assemble all the layers in the pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Just ensure that it's spreadable for even layering.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier variety of chili. You can also mix in some hot sauce into the picante sauce before spreading it over the chili.
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).