Introduction

This Chili Cheese Dip is a warm, comforting blend of creamy cheeses and flavorful chili, perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare in a crockpot, it’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or Fritos.

A round wooden board holds a large pile of yellow-orange, crispy chip-like snacks spread evenly around the outer edge. In the center, a clear glass bowl is filled with thick, smooth, orange-colored dip, speckled lightly with herbs or spices. Nearby, a white ceramic pot contains more of the same dip, glossy and creamy in texture. A white and blue striped kitchen towel lies partially visible to the side on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces Velveeta cheese
8 ounces cream cheese
15 ounces canned chili without beans
1/2 packet chili seasoning (see notes)

Instructions

Step 1: Chop the Velveeta and cream cheese into cubes to ensure even melting.
Step 2: Add the canned chili to a crockpot and place the cheese cubes over the top.
Step 3: Sprinkle the chili seasoning evenly over the cheeses and chili.
Step 4: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has melted and the dip is hot throughout.
Step 5: Set the crockpot to ‘warm’ and serve directly from it with tortilla chips or Fritos, or transfer to a serving bowl.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dip before cooking.
Using cream cheese at room temperature helps it melt more smoothly into the dip.
You can substitute canned chili with homemade chili or your favorite chili brand—just ensure it’s without beans for the best texture.
Adding a handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving adds extra cheesiness and color.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white round bowl filled with a smooth, creamy yellow cheese dip with spices, placed in the center of a pile of yellow curved corn chips with a crunchy texture. A woman's hand is dipping one chip into the cheese sauce, lifting it so the sauce clings to the chip and stretches slightly. Behind the bowl, there is a white slow cooker with a red light and a white knob, and a white marbled surface with a blurred white and gray striped cloth in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip without a crockpot?

Yes, you can melt the ingredients together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth and heated through. Just be careful to avoid burning the cheese.

Is this dip gluten-free?

The dip itself is gluten-free if you use gluten-free chili seasoning and canned chili. Always check the labels to be sure. Serve with gluten-free chips if needed.