Frito Chili Cheese Dip

By Lily | Last modified on Feb 14, 2026

Featured in: Appetizers

Frito Chili Cheese Dip is an irresistible warm appetizer that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for game day or any casual gathering, this dip is loaded with seasoned ground beef, melty cheeses, and a kick of spice that will have guests scooping up every last bite.

With a creamy base and a satisfying crunch from crispy bacon and green onions on top, this dip is as fun to serve as it is to eat. Paired with Frito’s Scoops, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines savory chili flavors with creamy cheese and crunchy toppings
Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes from start to finish
Perfect for parties, tailgates, or casual get-togethers
Flexible ingredients to customize spice and texture

Ingredients

Ground hamburger, 1 pound: Cooked until browned and drained to form the hearty protein base of the dip.
Cream cheese, 1 block: Softened to create a rich, creamy texture that binds all ingredients smoothly.
Diced tomatoes, 10 oz. can: Drained tomatoes add fresh acidity and vibrant color, similar to Rotel style.
Chili starter, 15 oz. can: A flavorful chili base like Bush’s Chili Magic provides seasoning and depth.
Cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded: Melds into the dip for melty, cheesy goodness with authentic sharpness.
Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Adds a mild, aromatic undertone that complements the chili spices.
Chili powder, 1 teaspoon: Brings warmth and mild heat essential to chili flavor profiles.
Brown sugar, 2 teaspoons: Balances acidity and spices with subtle sweetness for complexity.
Paprika, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds smokiness and enhances the dip’s color.
Cumin, 1/2 teaspoon: Provides earthy, slightly nutty undertones to round out flavors.
Hot sauce, 1-2 teaspoons: Adds a personalized level of heat; Louisiana hot sauce works perfectly.
White onion, 1/2 medium, diced: Adds crunch and sharpness to enhance the texture and flavor depth.
Cheddar cheese, 1.5 cups shredded for topping: Melted on top for an irresistibly gooey, cheesy crust.
Bacon, 5 strips cooked crispy and chopped: Adds smoky crispness as a savory topping.
Green onions, 2 diced: Fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color for garnish.
Frito’s Scoops chips: Ideal for serving, these scoop-shaped chips hold hefty dips perfectly.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees: Setting the oven early ensures it reaches the ideal temperature by the time your dip is assembled, allowing for even baking and melty cheese.
Combine dip ingredients thoroughly: In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese with cooked ground beef and remaining base ingredients including diced tomatoes, chili starter, shredded cheddar, and seasonings. Stir well until smooth and evenly combined to make sure every bite is packed with flavor.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Before baking, taste the prepared dip mixture and adjust salt, spices, or hot sauce as desired to suit your heat preference and flavor balance.
Transfer mixture to greased oven-safe skillet: Use a buttered or greased 10-inch cast iron skillet or similar baking dish. Spreading the dip evenly helps it cook thoroughly and develop a slight crust on the edges.
Top with cheddar cheese and bake: Sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dip. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts and starts to bubble, indicating the dip is hot and ready for the next step.
Add bacon topping and finish baking: Scatter crispy, chopped bacon over the melted cheese and bake for another 3-4 minutes until bubbling and golden. The bacon adds texture and smoky savoriness to balance the creaminess.
Garnish with green onions and serve: Sprinkle diced green onions on top for fresh color and mild onion flavor. Serve the dip warm alongside scoops of Frito’s chips for an ultimate dipping experience.

You Must Know

For extra crunch and flavor, consider topping with crushed Chili Cheese flavored Frito’s after baking along with bacon and green onions as a fun “husband style” tweak.
Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve a bubbly, slightly crispy edge that enhances the overall texture.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover dip covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in an oven-safe dish at 350°F until bubbly again, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili cheese dip warm with Frito’s Scoops chips for sturdy scooping. It also pairs well with sliced vegetables or toasted baguette slices for dipping.

Professional Tips

Soften the cream cheese well in advance for easier mixing and smoother dip texture.
Drain canned tomatoes thoroughly to avoid watery dip and maintain a thick consistency.
Feel free to customize the heat level by adjusting hot sauce and chili powder according to your guests’ taste.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?: Yes! Prepare the dip base completely then refrigerate before baking. Add toppings and bake just before serving to keep it fresh and hot.
What can I substitute for ground hamburger?: Ground turkey or chicken make good leaner alternatives. Vegetarians can use plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils for protein.
Can I use different types of cheese?: Cheddar is best for flavor and melting, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend can be used for a milder or creamier dip.
How spicy is this dip?: The heat level is moderate and can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing chili powder and hot sauce to suit preferences.
What type of chips work best for serving?: Frito’s Scoops are ideal because their scoop shape holds hearty dips well, but sturdy tortilla chips or pita chips also work nicely.
Can I add other toppings?: Absolutely! Jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or sliced olives create extra flavor layers and textures.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?: It is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating gently.