Get ready to fall in love with a dip that’s bold, creamy, and packed with flavor! This Spicy Italian Sausage Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you need a ridiculously good snack. Imagine the savory heat of Italian sausage, the richness of cream cheese, and the gooey goodness of melted cheese all coming together in one irresistible bite. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll never show up to a gathering without it again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold & Spicy: The heat from the sausage and seasonings makes this dip extra flavorful.
- Ultra Creamy: A blend of cheeses melts into pure indulgence.
- Perfect for Sharing: This dip disappears FAST at parties!
- Easy to Make: Simple steps, big flavors—no fuss required.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking.
Ingredients in Spicy Italian Sausage Dip
This dip is loaded with delicious, bold ingredients:
- Italian Sausage: The star of the show! Choose hot Italian sausage for a kick or mild if you prefer less heat.
- Cream Cheese: Makes the dip irresistibly smooth and creamy.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor boost.
- Shredded Cheese: A melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect gooey texture.
- Garlic & Onion: Essential aromatics that deepen the flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that ties everything together.
- Crushed Red Pepper (Optional): For an extra spicy punch!
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant.
Mix Everything Together: Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream cheese, and seasonings. Let everything melt together into a smooth, creamy mixture.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and stir until fully melted and combined.
Simmer & Thicken: Let the dip cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy.
Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy with chips, toasted bread, or fresh veggies!
How to Serve Spicy Italian Sausage Dip
- With Tortilla Chips: The classic pairing!
- Crusty Bread: Toasted baguette slices make the perfect dipper.
- Fresh Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers add crunch.
- Pretzel Bites: Soft, warm pretzels and this dip? Match made in heaven!
Additional Tips
- Make It Milder: Use mild sausage and reduce the crushed red pepper.
- Make It Hotter: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Keep It Warm: Serve in a slow cooker on low heat for parties.
- Prep Ahead: Cook the sausage and mix the ingredients in advance, then heat when ready to serve.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
A1: Yes! Cook the sausage first, then combine everything in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q3: Can I freeze this dip?
A3: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat slowly, stirring well.
Q4: What’s the best cheese for this dip?
A4: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives the best melt and flavor.
Q5: Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?
A5: Yes, but you’ll miss the signature Italian sausage spice! Add extra seasoning.
Q6: How do I reheat this dip?
A6: Warm in the microwave in 30-second bursts or on the stovetop over low heat.
Q7: Can I make this dip keto-friendly?
A7: Absolutely! Serve with low-carb veggies or keto chips.
Q8: What other mix-ins can I add?
A8: Try chopped jalapeños, crispy bacon, or even a splash of beer for extra depth.
Q9: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A9: Yes, but the canned ones add a great depth of flavor.
Q10: What drinks pair well with this dip?
A10: A cold beer, a bold red wine, or a spicy margarita!
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Italian Sausage Dip is pure comfort in every bite. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bold, spicy flavor—everything you want in a party dip. Whether you’re making it for game night, a holiday gathering, or just because you’re craving something delicious, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. So grab your chips and dig in!
Print
Spicy Italian Sausage Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This warm, cheesy, and creamy dip is loaded with spicy Italian sausage, tangy pickled peppers, and melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you crave a bold and flavorful appetizer!
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (crumbled or casing removed)
- 1 (12 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained well
- 1/2 cup pickled banana peppers, diced and drained
- 1/2 cup pickled cherry peppers, diced and drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Freshly grated black pepper, to taste
- For serving: Toasted buttered baguette slices or tortilla chips
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Cook the Sausage:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage until fully browned and crumbled.
- Drain excess grease and set aside.
3️⃣ Mix the Dip Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and black pepper until smooth.
4️⃣ Assemble the Dip:
- Add the cooked sausage, diced tomatoes, banana peppers, cherry peppers, Parmesan, and 1½ cups of mozzarella to the cream cheese mixture.
- Stir until well combined.
5️⃣ Bake:
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella on top.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
6️⃣ Broil for a Golden Finish:
- Switch the oven to broil and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
7️⃣ Serve:
- Enjoy warm with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips!
Notes
- For extra spice, add more red pepper flakes or use hot cherry peppers.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the dip up to a day in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg