This Sausage Cheese Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Combining the bold flavors of Italian sausage, melted cheeses, and savory seasonings, this dip is perfect for serving with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. It’s easy to make and loaded with cheesy goodness, making it a go-to for game days, potlucks, or any casual get-together.
Ingredients for Sausage Cheese Dip
- 12 ounces Italian sausage
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 8 ounces processed cheese block (such as Velveeta), cubed
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions: How to Make Sausage Cheese Dip
1. Cook the Sausage and Onions
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the sausage is browned and fully cooked, add the diced onion and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Melt the Cheeses
- Reduce the heat to low and add the Velveeta and cream cheese to the sausage mixture. Stir frequently until both cheeses are fully melted and smooth.
3. Add Milk and Seasonings
- Stir in the milk, dry mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Continue stirring until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add the Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the dip is creamy.
5. Serve
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish or keep it warm in a slow cooker. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables, and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Sausage Options: You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. For a milder option, try substituting with breakfast sausage or ground turkey.
- Cheese: Velveeta gives the dip a smooth, creamy texture, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with another processed cheese or additional cream cheese.
- Slow Cooker Option: To keep the dip warm during a party, transfer it to a slow cooker on the “low” setting and stir occasionally.
Recipe Variations: How to Customize Your Sausage Cheese Dip
Spicy Sausage Cheese Dip
- Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the onion and sausage mixture for an extra kick of heat.
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Add diced bell peppers, green chilies, or even spinach to the skillet along with the onions to add more texture and flavor to the dip.
Keto-Friendly Version
- Use a full-fat cheese blend and swap the Velveeta for additional cream cheese or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. Serve with keto-friendly chips or vegetables.
Meat-Free Option
- Swap the sausage for meatless sausage crumbles or mushrooms to make a vegetarian version of this delicious dip.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Cheese Dip
Q1: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat or in a slow cooker until it’s warm and creamy.
Q2: Can I freeze sausage cheese dip?
This dip freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q3: What can I serve with sausage cheese dip?
This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables like celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper slices.
Q4: How can I thicken the dip if it’s too thin?
If the dip is too thin, you can let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken up. Alternatively, you can stir in a little extra cream cheese or shredded cheddar.
A Creamy, Savory Dip Perfect for Any Occasion
This Sausage Cheese Dip is a rich and satisfying appetizer that’s easy to whip up and sure to impress. With its savory sausage, melty cheeses, and flavorful seasonings, it’s the ultimate dip for any party, game day, or casual get-together. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy the delicious, cheesy goodness with every bite!
