Description
This recipe creates a warm, savory dip inspired by Cincinnati chili, featuring a rich ground beef chili base layered over creamy cream cheese and topped with a bright cheddar swirl, perfect for easy weeknight meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups bright cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.25 tsp hot sauce, optional
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large, sturdy skillet, cook 1 lb lean ground beef with 0.5 cup chopped onion over medium heat until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat thoroughly from the pan.
- Build the Chili Base: Stir in 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, and 0.25 tsp hot sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 15 oz tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
- Layer the Dip: Spread 8 oz softened cream cheese evenly in the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish. Carefully spoon the hot chili mixture over the cream cheese, ensuring an even spread.
- Add the Bright Cheddar Swirl: Generously sprinkle 2 cups shredded bright cheddar cheese over the chili layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375F (190C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted, gooey, and slightly golden.
Notes
For a lighter option or healthy recipes for dinner, consider extra-lean ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for vegetarian. Use dairy-free cream cheese for lactose intolerance. Freshly grated, sharp yellow cheddar melts best and offers a richer flavor. Microwave cream cheese for 15-20 seconds if not soft enough to spread. For a speedy shortcut, use two 15 oz cans of your favorite canned chili, skipping steps 1-2. Consider organic ingredients or serving with whole grain tortilla chips.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cincinnati-style
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup (120 g)
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: skyline dip, cheddar swirl, Cincinnati chili, easy dinner, game day, savory dip, ground beef, cheesy, family-friendly, quick meal