This creamy, cheesy sausage dip is a hit at every gathering! With sausage, cream cheese, and a touch of spice, it’s both warm and comforting. Perfect for scooping with chips!
Honestly, I could eat this dip for every meal! Pair it with crunchy chips or fresh veggies, and you might just find it disappears in minutes! 🐷💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: This is the star of the show! You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on how much heat you want. If you need a lighter option, go for turkey or chicken sausage.
Cream Cheese: A key for that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, low-fat cream cheese works too! Alternatively, neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute as it has fewer calories.
Cheddar Cheese: I suggest a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra flavor. If you want to change it up, try pepper jack for some spice, or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and a tangy bite. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It’s creamy and adds extra protein!
Spices: Garlic and onion powder are essential for flavor. Feel free to add more spices or try fresh herbs if you have them!
How Do I Make Sure My Dip Stays Creamy?
Ensuring your dip stays creamy is all about mixing and baking properly. Here are some tips:
- Soften your cream cheese before mixing—this helps everything blend smoothly without lumps.
- Don’t rush the cooking of the sausage! Browning it well adds depth to the flavor.
- Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and spices until completely smooth before adding the sausage. This way, the sausage is evenly distributed.
- Watch the baking time. You want it bubbly but not overly dried out. If it looks too thick, stir in a splash of milk while mixing!
Following these tips will help your dip be creamy and delicious every time!
How to Make Cream Cheese Sausage Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving
Time Needed:
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll want to bake it for around 20 minutes. So, in total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your dip is ready to go in!
2. Cook the Sausage:
Next, take a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. When it’s done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
3. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you like), salt, and pepper. Use a mixer or a spatula to blend it all together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine with Sausage:
Now, stir in the cooked sausage and about half of the shredded cheese into the creamy mixture. Mix well so everything is nicely combined.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Get your baking dish or oven-safe skillet and transfer the mixture into it. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top!
6. Bake:
Put your dish in the preheated oven and bake it for about 20 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. Keep an eye on it—nobody likes a burnt dip!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a minute. Then, top it with the diced tomato and chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch. Trust me, your guests will love the extra color!
8. Enjoy!
Grab some tortilla chips or crackers and dig in! This warm and creamy sausage dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or snack time at home!
Enjoy every bite of this savory dip!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork Sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works just as well in this dip. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as with pork sausage.
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dip and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of sour cream or milk for extra creaminess if needed!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dip?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some diced jalapeños for heat, bell peppers for crunch, or even black beans for added texture. Just make sure to adjust the bake time if you add a lot of extra ingredients!
