Sausage Cheese Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings bold flavor, rich texture, and pure comfort to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or just craving a hearty snack, this dip never disappoints.
Made with spicy or mild sausage, gooey melted cheese, and zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), it’s a creamy, savory blend that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
What makes this dip a favorite is its versatility—you can spice it up with jalapeños, balance it with cream cheese or sour cream, or throw in extras like black beans or green onions.
Serve it warm with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or veggie sticks, and it becomes the centerpiece of any snack table. Its simplicity also makes it perfect for beginners in the kitchen, requiring just a skillet and a few ingredients.
Beyond its irresistible flavor, Sausage Cheese Dip holds nostalgic value for many—often a staple at family functions, tailgates, and potlucks.
It’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down, tweaked slightly, but always loved. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s more than just a dip—it’s a tradition in a bowl.
SAUSAGE CHEESE DIP
Description
Sausage Cheese Dip is a rich, creamy, and savory party favorite made with spicy or mild sausage, melted cheese (often Velveeta or cream cheese), and a touch of spice from diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Perfect for game day or holiday gatherings, it’s typically served hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
The sausage adds a hearty, meaty flavor while the cheese gives it that irresistibly smooth texture. Easy to make in a slow cooker or on the stove, this dip is a go-to crowd-pleaser that disappears fast.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
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Combine with Cream Cheese:
Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until it melts and combines with the sausage, creating a smooth base.
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Add the Cheese & Tomatoes:
Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, then add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir until the cheese is fully melted. If you like a spicier dip, you can add a bit of chili powder or hot sauce at this point.
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Season & Simmer:
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Allow the dip to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired thickness. If you prefer a creamier dip, mix in the sour cream now.
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Serve:
Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced veggies.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 200kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Cholesterol 40mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 12g24%
- Calcium 100 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Sausage Cheese Dip: Tips & Serving Tricks
Sausage cheese dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer, perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy gathering with friends and family. It's creamy, cheesy, and has a hearty kick from the sausage, making it an irresistible snack.
Whether you're making it for the first time or want to perfect your recipe, these tips and serving tricks will help elevate your dish.
1. Choosing the Right Sausage
The sausage you choose plays a significant role in the flavor of your dip. Ground breakfast sausage or Italian sausage are popular choices.
If you prefer a bit of spice, opt for a hot Italian sausage or add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat. For a milder flavor, go with a sweet Italian sausage or turkey sausage. Be sure to cook the sausage thoroughly and drain the excess fat before mixing it into the dip.
Tip: For a unique twist, consider using chorizo or a smoked sausage to add depth of flavor.
2. Perfecting the Cheese Blend
Cheese is the star of this dip, so choose a good variety that melts well. Cheddar cheese is the most common choice, but a combination of cheeses can make the dip extra creamy and flavorful.
Try mixing sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for a smooth, velvety texture. Cream cheese also helps bind the dip together, making it easier to scoop with chips or bread.
Tip: Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your dip.
3. Using the Right Base for the Dip
The base of the dip is typically a creamy element such as cream cheese, sour cream, or a combination of both. Adding a can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies or salsa to the dip gives it an extra layer of flavor and a little zing. If you want a creamier consistency, add more cream cheese or a splash of milk or heavy cream.
Tip: If you prefer a thicker dip, reduce the amount of liquid in your recipe. If it's too thick, add a little milk or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Baking vs. Stovetop
Both methods of cooking sausage cheese dip work well, but baking it can give it a slightly golden and bubbly top. If you’re in a rush, stovetop cooking is faster and allows you to control the consistency more easily. To bake, transfer the dip to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden.
Tip: For a nice crispy top, broil the dip for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
5. Serving Suggestions & Tricks
Sausage cheese dip is typically served with tortilla chips, crackers, or bread for dipping. But to make your presentation stand out, try these creative serving tricks:
- Serve in a bread bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread, like sourdough, and fill it with the dip. Serve the bread chunks alongside for dipping.
- Pair with fresh vegetables: Offer a healthier alternative by pairing your dip with fresh veggies such as carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips.
- Make it a loaded dip: Top the dip with additional ingredients like diced green onions, jalapeños, crumbled bacon, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor and color.
- Mini servings: For parties, serve the dip in individual cups or ramekins for easy portion control and a fun twist.
6. Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the sausage cheese dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk if it’s too thick. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring frequently, to prevent it from separating.
Tip: Don’t overheat the dip, as it can cause the cheese to become oily. Stir occasionally as it reheats to maintain its creamy texture.
Conclusion
Sausage cheese dip is simple, but with a few tricks, you can take it from good to great. Experiment with different types of sausage and cheeses, adjust the spice level to your liking, and present it in creative ways for a memorable snack. Whether for a game day celebration or a casual gathering, your guests will love this comforting, cheesy dip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sausage Cheese Dip?
Sausage cheese dip is a savory, creamy appetizer made with cooked sausage, melted cheese, and often combined with cream cheese or a cheese sauce.
It's a popular dip for parties, game days, and casual gatherings, offering a rich and flavorful experience. Typically, it's served warm with chips, crackers, or vegetables for dipping.
How do I make Sausage Cheese Dip?
To make this dip, start by browning sausage in a skillet. After draining the excess fat, mix in cream cheese or a combination of shredded cheese and Velveeta for a smooth and melty texture.
You can also add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
Some recipes include Rotel tomatoes (for a bit of tang) or jalapeños (for heat). Stir everything together until melted and well combined, then serve hot.
Can I make Sausage Cheese Dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time. Cook the sausage and mix it with the cheese, then refrigerate it until you're ready to serve.
To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the dip. It's best to reheat gently to avoid the cheese separating.
What can I serve with Sausage Cheese Dip?
Sausage cheese dip is delicious with a variety of dippers. Traditional choices include tortilla chips, potato chips, and crackers.
You can also offer sliced baguettes, veggies (like celery, carrots, or bell peppers), or even soft pretzels. For a twist, serve it with nachos or pour it over baked potatoes for a hearty meal.
