Hot Sausage Cheese Dip – The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
If you’re looking for a delicious, cheesy, and slightly spicy dip that will be the star of your next gathering, this Hot Sausage Cheese Dip is the perfect choice! Packed with bold flavors from Italian sausage, a creamy cheese blend, and a hint of Dijon mustard, this dip is rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a holiday get-together, or just want a warm, comforting snack, this dip is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a stress-free appetizer.
- Rich & Creamy – A perfect combination of cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Versatile – Serve it with tortilla chips, pretzels, crackers, or even sliced veggies.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Easily prepared in advance and reheated before serving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dip:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casing
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips, pretzels, crackers, or sliced veggies
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing spoon
- Serving dish
How to Make Hot Sausage Cheese Dip
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Once browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium saucepan, heat the chicken broth over medium heat.
- Gradually whisk in the cream cheese until smooth and melted.
- Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
- Add the milk, flour, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and is heated through.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked sausage to the cheese mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish and serve warm with tortilla chips, pretzels, or crackers.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Make it spicier – Use hot Italian sausage and add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Mild version – Use mild sausage and reduce the Dijon mustard.
- Add veggies – Stir in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.
- Swap the cheese – Experiment with different cheeses like Pepper Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
- If the dip thickens too much after refrigerating, stir in a splash of milk before reheating to loosen it up.
What to Serve with Hot Sausage Cheese Dip
This dip pairs perfectly with:
- Tortilla chips – The classic choice for dipping.
- Pretzels or breadsticks – Adds a salty crunch.
- Crackers – Perfect for a party platter.
- Sliced vegetables – For a slightly healthier option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dip a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat before serving.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After cooking the sausage and melting the cheeses, transfer the mixture to a slow cooker on the “Warm” setting to keep it hot for serving.
Can I freeze Hot Sausage Cheese Dip?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dip, as the cheese mixture can separate when thawed.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Sausage Cheese Dip is a must-try for anyone who loves cheesy, savory appetizers. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit at any party or gathering. Try it out, and let us know how it turned out for you!
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