Sausage Cheese Dip is a deliciously creamy and savory appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering or casual get-together. This dip combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage and sharp cheddar cheese with the smooth textures of Velveeta and cream cheese. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next party or game day event.
Overview of the Recipe
This dip is made by cooking Italian sausage with onions, then melting in a blend of processed cheese, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar. Enhanced with dry mustard powder and Worcestershire sauce, this dip offers a rich, flavorful experience that’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips, crostini, or fresh veggies.
History and Origin
Cheese dips have a long-standing place in American cuisine, often featured at social gatherings, parties, and sports events. The addition of sausage to cheese dip is a modern twist that adds heartiness and depth of flavor. This Sausage Cheese Dip draws inspiration from classic queso dips, incorporating Italian sausage for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 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
Cook Sausage and Onion
- Brown Sausage and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, add 12 ounces of Italian sausage and ½ cup of diced onion. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Melt Cheeses
- Add Processed Cheese and Cream Cheese: To the skillet with the cooked sausage and onion, add 8 ounces of cubed processed cheese (Velveeta) and 4 ounces of cream cheese. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cheeses are melted and smooth.
Add Flavor
- Incorporate Milk and Seasonings: Whisk in ½ cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
Incorporate Sharp Cheddar
- Stir in Sharp Cheddar: Add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheddar is fully melted and the dip is smooth and creamy.
Serve
- Transfer and Serve: Transfer the hot and creamy Sausage Cheese Dip to a serving bowl. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crostini, or your favorite dippers.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Sausage Cheese Dip pairs well with a variety of dippers and accompaniments:
- Tortilla Chips: Classic and crunchy, perfect for scooping up the creamy dip.
- Crostini: Thin slices of toasted baguette add a nice crunch and complement the savory flavors.
- Fresh Vegetables: Sliced bell peppers, celery sticks, and carrot sticks provide a fresh, healthy option.
- Crackers: Sturdy crackers like Ritz or Wheat Thins are also great choices for this dip.
Variations of the Recipe
To add some variety to this classic dip, consider these delicious variations:
- Spicy Version: Use spicy Italian sausage and add a teaspoon of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Southwestern Style: Add a can of diced green chilies and a tablespoon of taco seasoning for a Southwestern twist.
- Bacon and Sausage: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon along with the sausage for extra smoky flavor.
Health Benefits
While this dip is indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits:
- Protein: The Italian sausage and cheese provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium: Cheese is a rich source of calcium, important for bone health.
- Iron: Sausage contains iron, which is necessary for the production of hemoglobin in the blood.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
- Freezing: This dip can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more or less dry mustard powder and Worcestershire sauce as desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with breakfast sausage, chorizo, or any other sausage you prefer.
What if I don’t have processed cheese?
You can use a combination of other melting cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack, though the texture may be slightly different.
How can I make the dip thinner?
If the dip is too thick, you can add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in a slow cooker. Cook the sausage and onion first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low until melted and smooth, stirring occasionally.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Ensure that the processed cheese and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. Most major brands offer gluten-free versions of these products.
Conclusion
Sausage Cheese Dip is a flavorful and creamy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and full of savory goodness, this dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether served with tortilla chips, crostini, or fresh veggies, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this delicious dip, and make it a staple in your appetizer lineup!