Hot sausage dip is a flavor powerhouse. The spicy Italian sausage provides a robust and savory base, while the cream cheese and shredded cheddar add a rich, velvety texture. The pickled jalapenos introduce a tangy kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
The real magic happens when these ingredients come together, creating a harmonious blend that’s both spicy and creamy. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
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Hot Sausage Dip
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Hot Sausage Dip
Ingredients
- 500 g 1 pound spicy italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 can 14 oz/400g tomato sauce
- ⅓ cup pickled jalapenos chopped
- ¾ cup cream cheese
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese shredded
- 5 slices processed cheese
- ½ cup full-fat cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
- In a medium pan, placed over medium-high heat, cook chicken sausages for 10 minutes or until fully done. Make sure to break the minced meat with a spatula. If the sausages don’t have enough fat in them — you can add some olive oil to prevent sticking.500 g 1 pound spicy italian sausage, casing removed
- Add pickled jalapenos and cream cheese. Mix well, pour in tomato sauce, add sliced cheese and mix again, making sure that the cheese is fully melted.1 can, ⅓ cup pickled jalapenos, ¾ cup cream cheese, 5 slices processed cheese
- Transfer the chicken dip into a small casserole pan and sprinkle some cheddar on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Serve with some chips.1 cup white cheddar cheese
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 500 g (1 pound) spicy italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) tomato sauce
- ⅓ cup pickled jalapenos, chopped
- ¾ cup cream cheese
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 5 slices processed cheese
- ½ cup full-fat cream
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
In a medium pan, placed over medium-high heat, cook chicken sausages for 10 minutes or until fully done. Make sure to break the minced meat with a spatula. If the sausages don’t have enough fat in them — you can add some olive oil to prevent sticking.
Add pickled jalapenos and cream cheese. Mix well, pour in tomato sauce, add sliced cheese and mix again, making sure that the cheese is fully melted.
Transfer the chicken dip into a small casserole pan and sprinkle some cheddar on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Serve with some chips.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Classic Pairings
When it comes to serving hot sausage dip, you can't go wrong with classic dippers like tortilla chips, crackers, and sliced baguette. These options provide a sturdy base for scooping up the creamy, cheesy goodness of the dip.
Tortilla chips are a popular choice because their crunchy texture complements the smoothness of the dip. Crackers, on the other hand, offer a lighter, crispier alternative that allows the flavors of the dip to shine. Sliced baguette is another excellent option, adding a touch of sophistication to your spread.
Fresh Vegetables
For a healthier twist, consider serving hot sausage dip with an assortment of fresh vegetables. Bell pepper strips, celery sticks, cucumber slices, and baby carrots are all great choices. They add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to your presentation.
Vegetables not only provide a nutritious option for your guests but also balance the richness of the dip. Their natural sweetness and crispness create a delightful contrast, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Creative Additions
If you’re looking to elevate your hot sausage dip experience, try incorporating some creative additions. Pretzel bites, breadsticks, and even apple slices can add a unique twist to your appetizer spread.
Pretzel bites offer a salty, chewy contrast that pairs well with the dip's creamy texture. Breadsticks provide a sturdy and flavorful option for dipping, while apple slices introduce a hint of sweetness that complements the spicy and savory elements of the dish.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Choosing the Right Sausage
The key to a flavorful hot sausage dip lies in selecting the right sausage. Spicy Italian sausage is the preferred choice for this recipe, as it adds a robust, savory flavor that forms the backbone of the dish.
When shopping for sausage, look for high-quality options with a good balance of fat and seasoning. Avoid sausages with excessive fillers or artificial ingredients, as they can compromise the overall taste and texture of your dip.
Perfecting the Cheese Blend
The combination of cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and processed cheese is what gives hot sausage dip its signature creamy texture. To achieve the best results, use full-fat cheeses, as they melt more smoothly and provide a richer flavor.
Make sure to shred the cheddar cheese yourself, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the meltability. Additionally, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before incorporating it into the dip for easier mixing.
Enhancing the Flavor
To take your hot sausage dip to the next level, consider adding a few extra ingredients for enhanced flavor. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can introduce new dimensions to the dish.
Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to find the perfect balance that suits your taste. Just be mindful not to overpower the primary flavors of the sausage and cheese.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Hot Sausage Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Hot sausage dip can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the casserole pan with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
When you're ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and bake the dip as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I Freeze Hot Sausage Dip?
Yes, hot sausage dip can be frozen for future use. After cooking the sausage and combining all the ingredients, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and allow it to cool completely. Freeze for up to three months.
To serve, thaw the dip in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy schedules and last-minute gatherings.
What Are Some Variations of Hot Sausage Dip?
There are countless variations of hot sausage dip that you can try to suit your preferences. For a milder version, use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for unique flavor combinations.
Additionally, consider adding extra ingredients like diced tomatoes, green chilies, or black beans to create a heartier dip. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you're a fan of hot sausage dip, you'll likely enjoy other casserole recipes as well. Here are a few must-try options I love:
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