Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is a delightful and cozy appetizer that packs a punch of flavor. Perfect for game day, parties, or any casual gathering, this dip combines creamy cheese with savory chicken and topped with crispy Turkey Bacon for an irresistible treat. Whether served at a tailgate or family movie night, your guests will be clamoring for more of this delicious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, making it a great last-minute option.
• Flavor Explosion: A mix of spices and cheeses creates a rich and savory taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy.
• Versatile Serving: Pairs well with Frito’s Scoops, crackers, or fresh veggies.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices and toppings based on personal preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process easier and more efficient, gather the essential tools beforehand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe dish
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Excellent heat retention ensures even baking and perfect texture.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is a warm and cozy appetizer that is full of flavor and super easy to make. We’ll get this chili cheese dip mixed together, bake it, then top it with crispy Turkey Bacon and green onions. Serve it with Frito’s Scoops of course and your guests will be fighting over who gets the last scoop.

For the Dip Base

• 1 lb. ground chicken hamburger, cooked and drained
• 1 block cream cheese, softened
• 10 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained well (like Rotel)
• 15 oz. can chili starter
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1-2 tsp hot sauce (I used Louisiana)
• 1/2 medium white onion, diced

For the Toppings

• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 5 strips Turkey Bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
• 2 green onions, diced (green and white parts)
• Frito’s Scoops for serving

How to Make Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dip Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the softened cream cheese with the ground chicken hamburger.
2. Add all remaining dip base ingredients into the bowl.
3. Mix well until smooth. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings according to your preference.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

1. Transfer the dip mixture into a greased or buttered oven-safe skillet (a 10 cast iron works great).
2. Top it off with additional cheddar cheese.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Toppings & Finish Baking

After initial baking:
1. Sprinkle chopped Turkey Bacon on top.
2. Return to the oven until bubbly around the edges, which should take another 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Finish off by adding diced green onions on top before serving warm alongside Frito’s Scoops.

Enjoy your homemade Frito Chili Cheese Dip with family and friends!

How to Serve Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways to enhance your gathering. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive party, these serving suggestions will make your dip the star of the show.

With Frito’s Scoops

• Frito’s Scoops are the perfect vehicle for this dip. Their shape allows for easy scooping and ensures every bite is filled with flavor.

As a Topping for Nachos

• Spread this warm dip over tortilla chips for a delicious nacho platter. Top with extra cheese and jalapeños for added zest.

In Mini Tortilla Cups

• Use small tortilla cups to serve individual portions of the dip. This makes for a fun and interactive eating experience at parties.

Accompanied by Veggie Sticks

• Serve alongside crunchy veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dip.

With Salsa on the Side

• Pair this dip with your favorite salsa. The freshness of salsa complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.

As Part of a Party Platter

• Include Frito Chili Cheese Dip as one element in a larger party platter that features other dips, chips, and finger foods for variety.

How to Perfect Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Creating the ideal Frito Chili Cheese Dip involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are a few ways to make it even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality cheeses to elevate the flavor profile of your dip.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize spiciness by varying the amount of hot sauce or chili powder based on your guests’ preferences.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, mixing in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add an interesting twist.
• Bake Until Bubbly: Ensure you bake until the edges are bubbly and golden; this adds texture and enhances flavors.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with additional ingredients like avocado or diced tomatoes for added freshness and color.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dip base ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake right before serving for convenience.

Best Side Dishes for Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Pairing side dishes with Frito Chili Cheese Dip can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances out the spiciness of the chili cheese dip.
2. Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa brings brightness and acidity that contrasts beautifully with melted cheese.
3. Stuffed Jalapeños: Spicy jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese offer an exciting kick alongside your dip.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins provide a sweet and fluffy counterpart to the savory flavors of the dip.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are great for dipping into chili cheese, adding crunch to each bite.
6. Crispy Onion Rings: Serve crispy onion rings as a fun side that adds texture and flavor to your snack spread.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the cheese-based dish.
8. Tortilla Chips: Additional chips ensure there’s enough crunch to go around while enjoying every last bit of your delicious dip!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Frito Chili Cheese Dip, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Not draining the tomatoes properly: If you don’t drain the diced tomatoes well, your dip can become too watery. Make sure to press out excess liquid before adding them.
• Skipping the taste test: Not adjusting seasonings can lead to a bland dip. Always taste your mixture before baking and tweak spices to suit your palate.
• Overbaking the dip: Leaving the dip in the oven too long can result in dried-out cheese. Keep an eye on it while baking; remove it when bubbly around the edges.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold cream cheese can cause lumps in your dip. Let it soften at room temperature for a smoother texture.
• Forgetting about toppings: Skipping toppings like Turkey Bacon and green onions misses out on added flavor and crunch. Always finish with fresh toppings for a vibrant look and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Frito Chili Cheese Dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Frito Chili Cheese Dip

• You can freeze this dip for up to 2 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, as liquids may separate during freezing.

Reheating Frito Chili Cheese Dip

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dip in an oven-safe dish and heat for 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments of 30 seconds, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a pan, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Frito Chili Cheese Dip.

What is Frito Chili Cheese Dip?

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is a warm, creamy appetizer made with ground chicken, cream cheese, chili starter, and topped with cheese and crispy Turkey Bacon.

How do I make Frito Chili Cheese Dip spicy?

To add more heat to your Frito Chili Cheese Dip, increase the amount of hot sauce or add minced jalapeños or diced green chiles into the mix.

Can I use different meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken with ground beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Frito Chili Cheese Dip?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!