This warm and creamy sausage dip is a perfect party treat! With just a few simple ingredients like sausage and cream cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make.
Honestly, if you serve this with chips or veggies, you might want to double the batch. Everyone loves it, and I can’t resist sneaking a few spoonfuls myself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This is where your flavor comes from! You can use mild sausage for a kid-friendly version or spicy for a kick. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for that creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, a block of plant-based cream cheese works well as a substitute. Just check if it melts well!
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: I love the combo of sharp cheddar and stretchy mozzarella. For a twist, use pepper jack for some extra spiciness. You can also use vegan cheese if you’re dairy-free!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and a bit of tang. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative with similar results. Also, it’s thicker, so adjust the creaminess with a little extra milk.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder bring depth of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, fresh garlic or minced onions also work. And feel free to adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference!
How Do I Make Sure My Dip is Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth and creamy dip is temperature and mixing. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before adding it to the sausage. This helps it melt easily.
- Cook the sausage first, then lower the heat before adding cream cheese. This prevents the cream cheese from hardening.
- Mix continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted, then add in the other cheeses.
- If the dip is too thick, gradually stir in more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Topping with fresh tomatoes and herbs not only looks good but adds refreshing flavor, too!
Keep a close eye while mixing; it should be velvety smooth. Enjoy making this dip a hit at your next gathering!
How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy appetizer ready to impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage to the skillet and use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the sausage is fully browned and there’s no pink left. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Add Cream Cheese:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low. Take the softened cream cheese and add it to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Stir everything together until the cream cheese is melted and fully combined with the sausage.
3. Melt the Cheeses:
Next, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until they melt and you have a beautifully smooth and cheesy mixture.
4. Mix in the Sour Cream and Milk:
Now it’s time to add in the sour cream and milk. Stir until your dip is creamy and adjust with more milk if you like it a bit thinner.
5. Flavor It Up:
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if you chose to use it), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to make sure all the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the dip.
6. Transfer to Serving Dish:
Remove the skillet from the heat. You can either serve the dip directly from the skillet, or if you’d like a fancier look, transfer it to a serving platter.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Top your delicious dip with diced tomatoes and sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve immediately!
8. Grab Your Dippers:
Enjoy your warm sausage cream cheese dip with tortilla chips or fresh veggie sticks. Everyone will love it!
Enjoy this rich, cheesy, savory sausage dip warm—it’s the perfect addition to any gathering or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this dip. Just be sure to season it a bit more since turkey has a milder flavor compared to sausage; adding some extra spices can help enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance! Cook and mix all the ingredients, then store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened.
What Can I Use Besides Chips for Dipping?
Besides tortilla chips, this dip pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. You can also serve it with crackers or bread slices for a delightful variety!