This Hot Chili-Cheese Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the rich comfort of melted cheddar with the zesty kick of fresh tomatoes and chili spices. The base of sautéed onions and garlic provides a savory depth that balances the heat from the pepper sauce perfectly. Thickened smoothly with cornstarch, the texture is velvety and luxurious, making it ideal for dipping tortilla strips, chips, or crusty bread. ItâÂÂs a versatile vegetarian option that works beautifully as an appetizer at parties, a side dish for Mexican-inspired meals, or a quick snack on game day. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this dip delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, ensuring it will be a repeat favorite in your recipe rotation.
Hot Chili-Cheese Dip
Description
This Hot Chili-Cheese Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the rich comfort of melted cheddar with the zesty kick of fresh tomatoes and chili spices. The base of saut&# 195;©ed onions and garlic provides a savory depth that balances the heat from the pepper sauce perfectly. Thickened smoothly with cornstarch, the texture is velvety and luxurious, making it ideal for dipping tortilla strips, chips, or crusty bread. ItâÂÂs a versatile vegetarian option that works beautifully as an appetizer at parties, a side dish for Mexican-inspired meals, or a quick snack on game day. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this dip delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, ensuring it will be a repeat favorite in your recipe rotation.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat the cooking oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until tender but not browned, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the chopped tomatoes, chili powder, and hot pepper sauce.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to soften the tomatoes.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth.
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Pour the cornstarch mixture into the tomato sauce, stirring constantly.
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Continue to cook and stir until the dip thickens and becomes bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
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Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
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Serve warm with tortilla strips or chips.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 257.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.9g20%
- Saturated Fat 6.7g34%
- Cholesterol 29.1mg10%
- Sodium 215.9mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 25.9g9%
- Dietary Fiber 2.6g11%
- Sugars 3.7g
- Protein 11.7g24%
* 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
For a smoother texture, you can puree the tomato mixture before adding the cheese.
If the dip becomes too thick upon cooling, microwave it briefly and stir in a splash of milk or water to loosen.
Substitute Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.