Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Name: Frito Chili Cheese Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken (cooked and drained); 1 block cream cheese (softened); 10 oz can diced tomatoes (drained); 15 oz can chili starter; 2.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded); 5 strips Turkey Bacon (cooked and chopped); Green onions (diced)

Published: September 4, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dip takes only 20 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and spices creates a rich and savory taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a comforting snack. It pairs well with various dippers!
Crowd-Pleaser: With its delightful flavors and textures, your guests will be fighting over who gets the last scoop.
Make Ahead Option: You can prep the dip in advance and bake it just before serving for an easy entertaining solution.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Frito Chili Cheese Dip.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet: Ideal for even heat distribution and achieving that perfect bubbly top for your dip.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all the ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

For the Dip Base

1 lb. ground chicken hamburger, cooked and drained
1 block cream cheese, softened
10 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained well (like Rotel)
15 oz. can chili starter
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp chili powder
2 tsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
1-2 tsp hot sauce (I used Louisiana)
1/2 medium white onion, diced
1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

For Topping

5 strips Turkey Bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
2 green onions, diced (green and white parts)

For Serving

Frito’s Scoops

How to Make Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Dip Base

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the softened cream cheese with the cooked ground chicken.
2. Add all remaining dip base ingredients.
3. Mix well until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference.

Step 3: Bake the Dip

Transfer the dip mixture into a greased or buttered cast iron skillet.
Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Toppings

After baking:
1. Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped Turkey Bacon on top.
2. Return to oven for an additional 3–4 minutes until bubbly around the edges.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Finish off by adding diced green onions on top before serving warm with Frito’s Scoops! Enjoy this delightful Frito Chili Cheese Dip at your next gathering!

How to Serve Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your dip experience.

With Fresh Veggies

Carrot sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, they balance the richness of the dip.
Celery sticks: A classic choice that adds a nice crunch and freshness.
Bell pepper strips: Colorful and sweet, these add a delightful twist.

In Mini Bowls

Individual servings: Use small bowls or ramekins for each guest to enjoy their own portion.
Layered servings: Add extra toppings like green onions or bacon bits for a gourmet touch.

As a Nacho Bar

Tortilla chips: Offer an assortment of chips for dipping, giving guests options to choose from.
Toppings station: Include jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole for added flavor.

With Grilled Meats

BBQ chicken skewers: The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the cheesy dip.
Meatballs: Bite-sized and savory, they complement the dip’s bold taste.

How to Perfect Frito Chili Cheese Dip

To ensure your Frito Chili Cheese Dip is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture in your dip.
Adjust spice levels: Tailor the heat by adding more or less hot sauce based on your guests’ preferences.
Mix cheeses: Combining different types of cheese can create a richer flavor profile.
Serve warm: Ensure the dip is served hot for the best experience; it tastes better this way!
Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on toppings like green onions and bacon for added flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Pairing side dishes with Frito Chili Cheese Dip can enhance your appetizer spread. Here are some delicious options to consider.

Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a fresh layer of flavor to your spread.
Salsa: A zesty salsa provides a bright contrast to the creamy dip and keeps things exciting.
Pickled Jalapeños: For those who like heat, these spicy bites will complement the dip perfectly.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread muffins are a comforting side that pairs well.
Potato Skins: Crispy potato skins filled with cheese offer a satisfying crunch alongside your dip.
Stuffed Peppers: Mini stuffed peppers bring additional flavors while still keeping it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Frito Chili Cheese Dip, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

Using cold cream cheese – Ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy dip that’s hard to blend.
Not draining tomatoes properly – If you skip draining your diced tomatoes, your dip might become too watery. Make sure to drain them well for the best texture.
Overbaking the dip – Keep an eye on your dip while it bakes. Overbaking can cause the cheese to dry out and lose its creamy goodness.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Always taste your mixture before baking. Personalize the seasoning according to your preference for a more flavorful dip.
Skipping toppings – Don’t forget to add toppings like Turkey Bacon and green onions after baking! They add great flavor and crunch, enhancing the overall experience.

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftover Frito Chili Cheese Dip in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make sure it cools down completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing Frito Chili Cheese Dip

You can freeze this dip for up to 2 months.
Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up.

Reheating Frito Chili Cheese Dip

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed.
Stovetop – Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until hot. This method helps maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Frito Chili Cheese Dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember not to add toppings until after baking.

What can I serve with Frito Chili Cheese Dip?

This dip pairs perfectly with Frito’s Scoops but also goes well with tortilla chips, veggies, or crackers for a fun snack spread.

How do I customize my Frito Chili Cheese Dip?

You can easily customize this dip by adding different ingredients like black olives, jalapeños, or even swapping ground chicken for turkey or beef based on your preference.

Is Frito Chili Cheese Dip suitable for parties?

Absolutely! This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for tailgates or gatherings. Its warm and cheesy flavor will have everyone coming back for more!

Final Thoughts

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just enjoying a cozy night at home, this dip is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices for a unique twist. Try this recipe today and watch everyone fight over who gets the last scoop!

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