Tired of the same old cheese dip at every potluck? This Spicy Sausage Cheese Dip is here to shake things up with bold flavors and just the right amount of heat. Perfect for game-day gatherings, work meetings, or any get-together, this dip is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. With the savory kick of spicy sausage, the zing of jalapeños, and the creamy goodness of Velveeta cheese, this dip has it all. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to your trusty slow cooker.
Whether you like your cheese dip thick and hearty or smooth and dippable, this recipe has you covered. The addition of milk in this recipe ensures that the dip remains silky and perfect for scooping with your favorite chips. And if you’re someone who enjoys a bit more spice in your life, feel free to up the jalapeño ante—this dip can handle it.
So, the next time you’re asked to bring something to a potluck, ditch the usual suspects and surprise everyone with this flavorful, creamy dip. Trust me, it’ll disappear before you know it!
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
To make this delicious dip, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound spicy breakfast sausage, browned and drained: The spicy sausage gives the dip a robust, meaty flavor that’s hard to resist.
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes: The star of any cheese dip, Velveeta melts smoothly and creates a creamy base.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy richness that balances the spice and creaminess.
- 1/2 cup diced red onion: Brings a bit of sweetness and crunch.
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced: For a kick of heat; adjust to taste.
- 1/2 cup salsa (any kind will do): Adds another layer of flavor and a bit of tomatoey goodness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Ensures the dip is silky smooth and easy to scoop.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall savory flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own:
Extra Spicy
- Add more jalapeños: For those who like their dips with an extra kick, add additional jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce.
Milder Version
- Use bell peppers: If you’re serving a crowd that’s sensitive to spice, swap out the jalapeño for diced bell peppers. You’ll still get great flavor without the heat.
Cheese Lovers
- Mix in more cheese: For a richer dip, you can add a cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. It’ll make the dip even more gooey and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Perfect Cheese Dip
Let’s get started on making this irresistible dip:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Brown the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the spicy breakfast sausage until fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dip from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Load Up the Slow Cooker
- Add the ingredients: In a 3-quart or larger slow cooker, start by adding the browned sausage. Then, add the cubes of Velveeta cheese, followed by the sour cream, diced red onion, diced jalapeño, salsa, milk, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Stir everything together: Give everything a good stir to start combining the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Dip
- Cover and cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to high. Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure even melting and to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness: The dip is ready when the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is hot and bubbling.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the dip: Once the dip is done, give it a final stir and serve it hot. Pair it with a big bowl of corn chips or your favorite dipping snacks. It’s ready to be the star of your party spread!
Ingredient Notes & Tips
- Sausage Selection: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, you can opt for a mild breakfast sausage instead. But if you love heat, go for an extra-spicy variety or add more jalapeños to the mix.
- Velveeta Cheese: While Velveeta is a classic choice for cheese dips due to its smooth melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Salsa Options: Any salsa will work in this recipe—mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference. You can also try different flavors like chipotle or roasted tomato salsa for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings
To make this dip even more special, consider these serving ideas:
Corn Chips
- Classic combo: Serve the dip with a big bowl of corn chips. Their crunchiness complements the creamy dip perfectly.
Veggie Sticks
- Lighter option: For a healthier alternative, offer some sliced veggies like celery, carrots, or bell peppers for dipping.
Crusty Bread
- Rustic pairing: Serve the dip with slices of crusty bread or baguette. The bread’s firm texture pairs well with the creamy dip.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Sausage Cheese Dip is more than just a dip—it’s a surefire way to become the favorite guest at any gathering. With its bold flavors, creamy texture, and just the right amount of heat, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to disappear fast. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker.
So, the next time you’re in need of a dish that’s big on flavor and low on effort, give this cheese dip a try. Whether you’re hosting a party or attending a potluck, it’s bound to be a hit. Just make sure to bring enough chips—this dip is addictive! Happy cooking!
Spicy sausage cheese dip
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy breakfast sausage browned and drained: Provides a robust, meaty flavor.
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese cut into cubes: Melts smoothly to create a creamy base.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness to the dip.
- 1/2 cup diced red onion: Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 1 jalapeño seeded and diced: Brings heat; adjust to taste.
- 1/2 cup salsa: Adds tomatoey flavor and additional spice.
- 1/2 cup milk: Ensures the dip is smooth and dippable.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall savory flavor.
Instructions
- Brown the spicy breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the browned sausage to a 3-quart or larger slow cooker, followed by the Velveeta cheese cubes.
- Stir in the sour cream, diced red onion, diced jalapeño, salsa, milk, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cover and cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dip is hot.
- Serve hot with corn chips, crusty bread, or veggie sticks. Enjoy!