Cincinnati Skyline Chili Cheese Dip
This Cincinnati Skyline Chili Cheese Dip is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy nights in. Featuring a creamy base of smooth cream cheese, layered with the rich flavors of Skyline chili and topped with melted cheddar cheese, it's a deliciously decadent dip that's sure to disappear in no time. Optional diced onions add a fragrant touch, making it even more irresistible. Pair this dip with crunchy corn chips or Fritos for the ultimate snacking experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Skyline chili
13 ounces frozen or 15 ounces canned (thawed if frozen)
shredded cheddar cheese
8 ounces (none)
onion
1/4 cup (diced (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if using a conventional oven, or prepare a microwave-safe dish for the microwave option.
2
Spread the cream cheese evenly across the bottom of a casserole dish to create a smooth base.
3
If desired, sprinkle the diced onions over the cream cheese for an added layer of flavor.
4
Pour the Skyline chili over the cream cheese and optional onions, ensuring an even distribution.
5
Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese, making sure to cover the chili completely.
6
For the conventional oven method, bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling but not browned.
7
For the microwave method, heat on high for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted.
8
Serve warm with a side of corn chips or Fritos for dipping and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cincinnati Skyline Chili Cheese Dip?
It is a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring a creamy cream cheese base, layered with Skyline chili, and topped with melted cheddar cheese.
What are the primary ingredients for this dip?
The main ingredients are 8 ounces of cream cheese, 13 to 15 ounces of Skyline chili, and 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
Are onions required for the recipe?
No, the 1/4 cup of diced onions is optional and serves to add a fragrant touch to the dip.
How do I prepare the cream cheese?
The cream cheese should be softened and then spread evenly across the bottom of a casserole dish.
Can I use canned Skyline chili?
Yes, you can use a 15-ounce can of Skyline chili for this recipe.
Can I use frozen Skyline chili?
Yes, you can use 13 ounces of frozen Skyline chili; just ensure it is thawed before use.
What type of cheese is recommended?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
For the conventional oven method, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the dip bake in the oven?
Bake the dip for approximately 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling but not browned.
Can I make this dip in the microwave?
Yes, you can heat it on high in a microwave-safe dish for about 2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
What should I serve with this chili cheese dip?
It is best paired with crunchy corn chips or Fritos for dipping.
How do I layer the ingredients?
Start with the cream cheese, followed by optional onions, then the chili, and finally the shredded cheddar cheese.
Is this dip suitable for game days?
Yes, it is specifically described as perfect for gatherings, game days, and cozy nights in.
What is the texture of the dip?
The dip features a smooth and creamy base with rich chili and melted cheese on top.
Can I use other brands of chili?
While this recipe specifies Skyline chili for an authentic Cincinnati flavor, other brands could be used as a substitute.
Should the chili be distributed evenly?
Yes, you should pour the chili over the cream cheese and onions ensuring an even distribution.
How much onion should I use?
If using onions, the recipe suggests 1/4 cup of diced onion.
Is the cheese supposed to be browned?
No, you should only heat it until the cheese is bubbling or thoroughly melted, but not browned.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 4 ingredients total including the optional onion.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as an appetizer, party food, and comfort food dip.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
You can assemble the layers ahead of time and bake or microwave it when you are ready to serve.
Is this dip served hot or cold?
This dip should be served warm for the best flavor and texture.
How many ounces of cheese do I need?
You will need 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
Is this dip considered decadent?
Yes, the description identifies it as a deliciously decadent dip.
What size dish should I use?
A standard casserole dish or a microwave-safe dish works well depending on your cooking method.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
While full-fat is traditional, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese if preferred.
Does the recipe include fiber or sugar information?
The current nutritional data for fiber and sugar is not specified in the raw recipe data.
Is the chili spice level high?
Skyline chili has a unique flavor profile that is generally mild to medium in spice, making it suitable for most guests.
Can I add jalapeños to this?
While not in the original recipe, jalapeños would make a great addition for those who want more heat.
How long does it take to prep?
Prep is very fast, requiring only a few minutes to layer the ingredients before the 2-10 minute heating process.