Ugly Dip
Ugly Dip is a creamy, spicy appetizer combining savory sausage, rich cream cheese, and tangy salsa. Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, it offers bold flavors and a comforting texture. Serve warm or cold with chips, salsa, or toast for a crowd-pleasing snack that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the sausage until fully cooked, then drain well.
- Put both packages of cream cheese and the jar of salsa in the microwave and heat for about 7 to 10 minutes or until the cream cheese begins to melt.
- Mix the cooked sausage into the melted cream cheese and salsa mixture.
- Serve warm or cold with salsa, chips, or toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before microwaving. You can substitute the sausage with ground turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier dip, consider using a hot salsa or adding diced jalapeños. This dip is great for parties and pairs well with Crunchy Graham Crackers for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip warm or cold, accompanied by tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or toasted bread. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with salsa or a fresh guacamole. This dip is perfect for game days, potlucks, or as a tasty appetizer at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dip in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ugly Dip contains roughly 543 calories, with 14g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1567mg per serving (68% 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 follow the recipe up to mixing in the sausage, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even a spicy chorizo for added flavor. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the cream cheese and salsa.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dip?
Absolutely! You can swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Adding cooked lentils can also give it a hearty texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
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).