Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress your guests? Look no further! This sausage and cream cheese dip recipe is incredibly simple to make, bursting with flavor, and always a huge hit at parties, game days, or even a cozy night in. It's the perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and a touch of spice, all baked to bubbly perfection. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease once it's cooked through. This step builds the amazing flavor base of our dip!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, milk (or cream), garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Add the Sausage
Stir in the cooked and crumbled sausage. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the creamy cheese mixture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish (an 8x8 inch baking dish works well). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. The dip will be slightly golden brown on top, adding a beautiful visual appeal.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve it warm with your favorite dippers – tortilla chips, crackers, vegetable sticks, or even crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious additions.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or sauteed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, combine all ingredients (except the crackers/chips) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This sausage and cream cheese dip is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on flavor and minimal effort. Try it out and let us know what you think! We’re sure it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.