Frito Chili Cheese Dip Recipe

If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with bold flavors and creamy, cheesy goodness, this Frito Chili Cheese Dip is about to become your new go-to. It brings together savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and just the right kick of spices all melted into a luscious, velvety base of cream cheese and cheddar. Served with crunchy Frito’s Scoops, this dip perfectly balances comfort and excitement in every bite, making it an absolute must-have for game days, parties, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Frito Chili Cheese Dip lies in its simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one brings a unique flavor or texture that builds the dip’s irresistible depth, from creamy dairy to spicy notes and hearty meatiness.

• 1 lb. ground hamburger: Adds a rich, savory base that makes the dip hearty and satisfying.
• 1 block cream cheese, softened: Provides a smooth, creamy foundation that binds everything together.
• 10 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained well: Offers juiciness and a fresh tang, use varieties like Rotel for a zesty lift.
• 15 oz. can chili starter: Infuses that classic chili flavor, enhancing the dip with bold spices and a thick texture.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into the dip adding sharpness and gooey indulgence.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts flavor with a warm, aromatic undertone.
• 1 tsp chili powder: Gives the dip a subtle smoky heat that’s essential for that chili vibe.
• 2 tsp brown sugar: Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness.
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds depth and a mild smoky character.
• 1/2 tsp cumin: Brings an earthy warmth that rounds out the flavor profile.
• 1-2 tsp hot sauce (like Louisiana): Personalize the heat level to your liking with a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
• 1/2 medium white onion, diced: Adds texture and a mild sharpness to cut through the creaminess.
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: For topping, this melts and browns beautifully in the oven.
• 5 strips bacon, cooked crispy and chopped: Gives a smoky crunch that elevates every bite.
• 2 green onions, diced (green and white parts): Provide a fresh, vibrant finish for color and flavor contrast.
• Frito’s Scoops for serving: Perfect for scooping up the dip with their sturdy, crunchy texture.

How to Make Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s ready for the final baking, which is key to achieving that bubbly, golden cheese topping we all crave.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the cooked and drained ground hamburger. Add the diced tomatoes, chili starter, garlic powder, chili powder, brown sugar, paprika, cumin, hot sauce, and diced onion. Mix everything thoroughly until you get a smooth, uniform base. This step lets all the vibrant flavors marry together beautifully—give it a quick taste and adjust seasonings to suit your spice preference.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the dip mixture into a greased or buttered 10-inch oven-safe skillet (cast iron works wonderfully here). Sprinkle the initial cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes, just until the cheese begins melting and the edges start to bubble.

Step 4: Add Bacon and Finish Baking

Remove the skillet and generously top the dip with the crispy chopped bacon. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the dip is bubbly all around and the cheese topping has browned nicely.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the diced green onions over the dip for a pop of fresh color and zesty flavor. Serve this Frito Chili Cheese Dip warm alongside plenty of Frito’s Scoops for dunking. The crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up all that cheesy, meaty goodness.

How to Serve Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Garnishes

A sprinkle of diced green onions adds just the right freshness and a hint of sharpness that cuts through the richness. If you want to kick it up a notch, consider topping with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs beautifully with simple sides like crisp veggie sticks—carrot, celery, or bell pepper—to balance out the indulgent flavors. For a full spread, try adding a fresh garden salad or some garlic breadsticks that complement the dip’s hearty profile.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Frito Chili Cheese Dip in a rustic cast iron skillet or a colorful ceramic baking dish to make your appetizer look as inviting as it tastes. You can also create individual portions by baking the dip in mini ramekins for a fun, elegant presentation perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover dip in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently to preserve that creamy texture and melded flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that cream cheese-based dishes may separate slightly after freezing, so thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight for best results before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and bubbly, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch but be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent cheese from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make Frito Chili Cheese Dip without ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with cooked shredded chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian-friendly version. Just ensure it’s well cooked and drained before mixing.

What’s the best type of cheese to use?

Cheddar cheese is classic for its sharp flavor and excellent melting quality, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack for creaminess or a mix of cheeses if you want to add extra depth.

How spicy is this dip? Can I adjust it?

The spice level is totally customizable. The recipe includes chili powder and hot sauce, but you can easily reduce or increase these to make the dip milder or hotter depending on your taste.

Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Yes! Prepare the mixture the day before, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, just bake it as directed. This makes entertaining a breeze.

Is Frito Chili Cheese Dip gluten-free?

The dip itself is gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free chili starter and hot sauce. Always double-check labels if you’re serving guests with gluten sensitivities. The Frito’s Scoops are gluten-free, making them a perfect pairing.

Final Thoughts

This Frito Chili Cheese Dip is such a fantastic recipe to have in your back pocket — it’s simple, packed with flavor, and endlessly comforting. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or just indulging yourself, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t wait for the next game day—grab those ingredients and whip up a batch that brings everyone together around one delicious bowl of homemade goodness!

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