How to Make the Perfect 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip
Tex-Mex · Easy · 25 min · 8 servings
This 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip layers canned chili and cream cheese under a blanket of melted shredded cheddar for the hottest dip at any party. This 3 ingredient recipe requires almost no effort and delivers deep hearty flavor that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips.
Why this recipe works
This 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 25 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 260 calories with 10g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 15 oz can chili with or without beans
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0 no oil needed
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Layer the Base
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer across the bottom of an 8x8 baking dish or a 9-inch oven-safe skillet, making sure to reach the edges.
Step 2: Add Chili Layer
Pour the canned chili evenly over the cream cheese layer and spread gently with a spoon. Do not stir the layers together as keeping them separate creates a better texture and visual presentation when served.
Step 3: Top with Cheese and Bake
Cover the entire surface with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling around the edges. Serve hot with tortilla chips.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- canned chili → homemade leftover chili for an even richer and more complex flavor
- cream cheese → Velveeta cut into cubes for an ultra-smooth and gooey result
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using cold cream cheese straight from the refrigerator makes it impossible to spread into an even base layer and creates lumpy uneven dip
- Overbaking causes the cream cheese to separate and release liquid which makes the dip watery and greasy rather than creamy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 260 calories, 10g protein, 14g carbs, 18g fat, 3g fiber.
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