Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip wakes up a snack table with warm, melty goodness. This quick dip gives you creamy cheese, hearty chili, and a gooey top in under 30 minutes—perfect for game nights, school nights, or when you need comfort food fast. If you like simple, crowd-pleasing recipes, you might also enjoy our 3-Ingredient Rhubarb Squares for dessert. The smell of melted cheese and chili fills the kitchen and makes everyone gather.
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 20–30 minutes, with just three main ingredients.
- Family Favorite: Mild, cheesy, and familiar — kids and adults usually love it.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common canned and dairy items you may already have.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat.
This recipe stands out because it needs very little prep and still feels warm and special. The cream cheese base gives a smooth, rich texture while the chili adds savory meat and spices. It’s the kind of recipe that brings comfort and a little nostalgia—like an easy snack your family asks for again and again. For more three-ingredient ideas, try this rhubarb squares recipe.
Ingredients
For the base:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (room temperature so it spreads easily)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chili (with or without beans, drained slightly if very watery)
For the topping:
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend), shredded fresh for best melt
Optional garnish (small amounts, not counted as main ingredients):
- Chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of paprika
How to Make Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish (8×8-inch or similar).
- Why: Preheating gives even cooking and a bubbly top.
- Spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. Use the back of a spoon for a smooth surface.
- Tip: If cream cheese still feels firm, microwave it 10–15 seconds to soften more.
- Spoon the canned chili evenly over the cream cheese. Gently spread it so the chili covers the base without mixing the layers.
- Why: Layering keeps each bite creamy and hearty.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the chili. Use more cheese for extra gooeyness.
- Tip: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and edges show light browning.
- Why: Baking blends flavors and gives a warm, inviting top.
- Remove from oven and let rest 3–5 minutes before serving. Add optional chopped green onions or sliced jalapeños on top for color and brightness.
How to Serve Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip
- Serve hot with sturdy tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices for dipping. The warm, melty texture clings nicely to thick chips.
- Make a simple platter: place the dip in the center, surround with sliced bell peppers, carrot sticks, and pita wedges.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, a dash of paprika, or a few pickled jalapeño slices for a bright contrast.
How to Store Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip
- Refrigerator: Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Not ideal for best texture, but you can freeze in a shallow airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring between, until hot. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly.
Tips to Make Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Drain very watery chili a bit so the dip doesn’t get soggy.
- Shred cheese yourself for a smoother melt.
- Let the dip rest a few minutes after baking so it firms up slightly and is easier to scoop.
Variation
- Vegetarian: Use a canned vegetarian chili (bean-based) instead of meat chili. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
- Extra creamy: Swap half the cream cheese for 8 ounces of Velveeta for a silkier, pull-apart dip (same bake time).
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Layer the cream cheese on the bottom, add the chili, top with cheese, and cook on low for 1–2 hours until melted and bubbly. Stir once before serving for even texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use Velveeta for a very smooth, creamy result or a block of mild cheddar mixed with a little milk for a different texture. Expect flavor and firmness to change.
Is canned chili with beans okay to use?
Absolutely. Chili with beans adds more texture and fiber. If your chili is very watery, drain a bit so the dip stays thick and scoopable.
Conclusion
This Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip is the kind of cozy, simple recipe that fills a kitchen with warm smells and brings people together. It’s quick to make, easy to share, and flexible enough for picky eaters or spice lovers. If you want to compare versions or see a similar idea, check out 12 Tomatoes’ 3-Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip for another take. Please leave a comment and a star rating if you try it, and share the recipe on Pinterest or Facebook so others can find this cozy snack. What twist did you try? Let us know below!
Print
Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and simple chili cheese dip made with cream cheese, chili, and shredded cheese, perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (15-ounce) can chili, drained slightly if very watery
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish.
- Spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer on the bottom of the dish.
- Spoon the canned chili evenly over the cream cheese.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the chili.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve hot with tortilla chips or baguette slices. Optional garnishes include chopped green onions or jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg