Slow Cooker Sausage Cheese Dip

by

Recipe: Slow Cooker Sausage Cheese Dip

This recipe delivers a rich, velvety cheese base studded with zesty browned sausage and just enough kick from diced tomatoes and green chilies.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 2 hours (Low)

  • Servings: 12–15 people

  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground Italian sausage (Mild or Hot, depending on your spice preference)

  • 16 oz Processed cheese (like Velveeta), cubed

  • 8 oz Cream cheese, cubed and softened

  • 1 can (10 oz) Diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Ro-Tel), undrained

  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder

  • 1/4 cup Pickled jalapeños, chopped (optional, for extra heat)

  • Garnish: Fresh cilantro or sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until fully browned and crumbled. Drain the grease thoroughly to prevent the dip from becoming oily.

  2. Combine: Place the cooked sausage, cubed processed cheese, cream cheese, undrained tomatoes, and garlic powder into the slow cooker.

  3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 1.5 to 2 hours.

  4. Stir: About halfway through, give it a good stir to help the cream cheese and processed cheese incorporate into a smooth sauce.

  5. Serve: Once melted and bubbling, turn the slow cooker to the “Warm” setting. Garnish and serve directly from the pot.

Notes & Pro-Tips

  • Drain the Fat: This is the most important step. If you don’t drain the sausage well, a layer of orange oil will sit on top of your dip.

  • Cheese Quality: Cubing the cheese into 1-inch pieces ensures it melts evenly without scorching.

  • Thinning it Out: If the dip gets too thick after sitting on “Warm” for a few hours, stir in a splash of whole milk or heavy cream to loosen it up.

  • The “Secret” Spice: A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cumin can add a wonderful depth of flavor.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Estimates based on 1/15th of the recipe.

Nutrient Amount
Calories 210 kcal
Total Fat 16g
Saturated Fat 9g
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 4g
Sodium 680mg

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Crowd Efficiency: It stays warm for hours, making it perfect for long events.

  • Versatility: It works as a dip for tortilla chips, pretzels, toasted baguette slices, or even celery sticks.

  • Low Carb Option: If served with veggie sticks, this dip is naturally keto-friendly.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this on the stovetop instead?

A: Absolutely. Brown the meat, add the rest of the ingredients, and melt over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent the cheese from burning on the bottom of the pan.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?

A: You can, but you lose the seasoning built into the sausage. If using beef, be sure to add salt, pepper, and perhaps some taco seasoning or chili powder to compensate.

Q: Can I freeze this dip?

A: It’s not recommended. Dairy-heavy dips tend to separate and become “grainy” in texture once thawed and reheated.

Leave a Comment