South Of The Border Mason-Dixon Dip
A flavorful, cheesy dip with chili and green onions, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, served hot with tortilla chips for a spicy, savory treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Heat chili in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 minutes or microwave for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Press softened cream cheese into the bottom of a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour heated chili over the cream cheese.
- Sprinkle grated sharp Cheddar cheese over the chili.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes, until mixture is hot and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and top with chopped green onion tops.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the cream cheese with a bit of sour cream before pressing it into the dish. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor. To make it spicier, add jalapeños to the chili or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before baking. For a vegetarian version, use a meatless chili.
Serving Suggestions
This dip is perfect for game day or gatherings. Serve it hot alongside tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even in taco salads for a unique twist. It pairs beautifully with Easy 7-Layer Dip for a complete appetizer spread. You can also offer some salsa or guacamole on the side for additional 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 microwave-safe dish and heat it on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Of The Border Mason-Dixon Dip contains roughly 593 calories, with 27g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1040mg per serving (45% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What type of chili should I use?
You can use any canned chili you prefer, including vegetarian options. Look for chili with beans for added texture, or choose a spicier version if you enjoy heat. Just be sure to check the label for flavor enhancements that might complement the dip.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make it in a slow cooker, layer the cream cheese, chili, and cheese in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. This method keeps the dip warm and gooey, making it great for parties.
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).