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Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a snack that brings all the heat, flavor, and melty goodness in one bowl, you’ve hit the jackpot. This Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe is the perfect combo of smoky, cheesy, and just the right amount of spice that’ll have you dipping chip after chip without guilt. Trust me, I’ve made this dip more times than I can count for get-togethers and quiet nights in — it’s always a hit and ridiculously easy. Let me walk you through everything you need to know so your dip turns out perfectly every time.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Bold Flavor Combos: The spicy chorizo paired with creamy Monterey jack creates unbeatable depth and richness.
  • Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip this up in under 20 minutes.
  • Texture Magic: Melting the cheese slowly prevents that gritty texture—making every bite smooth and velvety.
  • Versatile Serving: Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in, and it pairs beautifully with lots of dippers.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic of this Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe is really in how simple ingredients come together to create something rich, spicy, and so crave-worthy. Each component plays a vital role, and I’ll share little secrets to picking the best versions for your dip.

  • Mexican chorizo: This fresh sausage is packed with spice and fat that adds flavor and moisture—don’t skip draining excess fat if it seems too greasy.
  • Diced tomatoes with green chiles: Brings a bit of acidity and subtle heat that balances the richness of the cheese and meat perfectly.
  • Evaporated milk: Creamier than regular milk and helps the dip stay luscious without thinning it out.
  • Monterey jack cheese: Melts smoothly and offers a mild, buttery flavor—avoid pre-shredded for better melt!
  • Green onions: Fresh garnish adds crunch and a little sharpness to brighten each bite.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the reasons I love this Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe is how flexible it is. Once you get the base down, it’s easy to swap things out or dial the heat up and down depending on your mood and crowd.

  • Make it with cheddar: I’ve tried sharp cheddar but prefer mild or medium cheddar because sharp can separate when melted, leaving the dip a bit oily.
  • Add black beans or corn: For a heartier dip, toss in some cooked black beans or corn kernels for texture and color — my guests love this twist!
  • Mild or extra spicy: Use mild diced tomatoes with green chiles or spicy depending on how hot you want things — I usually stick with mild but add a sprinkle of cayenne if I’m craving more heat.
  • Make it vegetarian: Skip the chorizo and add smoky smoked paprika and sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly spin that still packs flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe

Step 1: Brown the chorizo to crispy perfection

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the Mexican chorizo and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the edges start to get lightly crispy. This is when the flavor really develops! If your chorizo releases a lot of fat, I like to drain off most but keep a couple tablespoons in the pan — this fat carries the spices and adds delicious richness.

Step 2: Cook away excess moisture from tomatoes

Drain your diced tomatoes with green chiles well, then add them to the skillet. Stir everything together and continue cooking until most of the moisture evaporates. This prevents your dip from being watery and intensifies the tomato and chile flavor.

Step 3: Pour in evaporated milk and warm through

Next up, stir in the evaporated milk and heat the mixture until just warmed. This step helps create a silky base for your cheese without making the dip too thin or heavy.

Step 4: Melt the cheese slowly for smooth texture

Turn the heat down to low and let the dip cool for a minute or two so it’s warm but not scorching. Then, add your shredded Monterey jack cheese a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted before adding more. Trust me, patience here prevents that gritty or oily cheese texture, which is the key to a perfect dip every time.

Step 5: Garnish and serve immediately

Once all the cheese has melted in, turn off the heat. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch and pop a big bowl of chips next to you. This dip is best enjoyed right away for melty goodness.

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t rush the cheese melting: Adding cheese too fast or at too high heat can make it clumpy — be gentle and patient.
  • Drain your tomatoes well: Extra water will thin out the dip, so give your canned tomatoes a good strain.
  • Use block cheese, not pre-shredded: It melts better and avoids all those anti-caking additives that can ruin texture.
  • Serve warm, not hot: Too hot and the cheese breaks; too cool and it thickens—aim for cozy warmth.

How to Serve Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe

A black cast iron pan filled with a creamy orange cheese sauce with small bits of ground meat mixed in, topped with scattered green chopped scallions and small browned meat pieces mainly gathered on one side, placed on a dark textured surface with a black and white striped cloth partially visible on the left, and three yellow tortilla chips scattered on the top right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I always top mine with lots of freshly sliced green onions because the crisp bite balances the rich cheese and spicy sausage so well. A little fresh cilantro can also be fantastic if you’re looking for a herbal contrast.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs perfectly with classic tortilla chips, but I’ve also loved it with warm pita wedges, crispy toasted baguette slices, and even crunchy vegetable sticks like jicama or bell peppers to add freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like serving this spicy chorizo cheese dip in a mini cast iron skillet—it stays warm longer and looks so inviting. Adding a colorful bowl of assorted dippers around it makes for a fun, shareable spread that guests can’t resist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dip thickens as it cools, so stirring it when reheating helps bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing this dip works if you’re careful. I freeze in small portions and thaw overnight in the fridge, but note the texture can change slightly. It’s still great melted down for a casual snack afterward.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on low heat in a small skillet or microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Adding a splash of evaporated milk or cream helps loosen it up without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular sausage instead of chorizo in the Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe?

    You can, but the dip won’t have the same smoky, spicy depth that Mexican chorizo provides. If you use regular breakfast sausage, consider adding extra chili powder or smoked paprika to mimic that flavor.

  2. What’s the best cheese for melting in this dip?

    Monterey jack is ideal because it melts smoothly with a mild flavor. Mild or medium cheddar is a good substitute, but avoid sharp cheddar to prevent separation and graininess.

  3. Can I make the Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe ahead of time?

    Sure! You can assemble the dip a few hours before serving and gently reheat it just before your gathering. Just be careful to melt the cheese slowly to keep it creamy.

  4. How do I keep the dip from getting watery?

    Draining your canned tomatoes well and cooking off excess moisture before adding milk and cheese is key. Also, take your time melting cheese on low heat—it helps preserve the perfect consistency.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to bring people together. Whether you’re throwing a last-minute party or craving something comforting, this recipe delivers every time. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s the kind of dip that sparks smiles and second helpings. So grab those chips, invite a friend, and let the deliciousness begin!

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Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 41 reviews
  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

This Spicy Chorizo Cheese Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for game days or parties. Made with Mexican chorizo, diced tomatoes with green chiles, evaporated milk, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, it’s easy to prepare and garnished with fresh green onions for a delicious kick.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb. Mexican chorizo
  • 1 10 oz. can diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
  • 1 12 oz. can evaporated milk
  • 12 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 3 green onions, sliced for garnish


Instructions

  1. Brown the chorizo: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chorizo. Cook until it is slightly crispy on the edges. If there is excess fat, drain all but a couple of tablespoons from the skillet.
  2. Add diced tomatoes: Drain the diced tomatoes with green chiles, then add them to the skillet with the chorizo. Stir and cook until most of the moisture has evaporated.
  3. Pour evaporated milk: Add the evaporated milk to the skillet and stir, cooking until heated through.
  4. Incorporate the cheese: Turn the heat down to low and let the mixture cool slightly so it’s warm but not too hot. Add the shredded cheese by handfuls, stirring each time until fully melted before adding more.
  5. Finish and garnish: Once all cheese is melted and integrated, turn off the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Notes

  • Cheddar cheese can be substituted for Monterey Jack; use mild or medium cheddar to avoid the cheese breaking or separating.
  • Shred block cheese by hand for best melting results instead of pre-shredded cheese.
  • If your chorizo is very fatty, draining the fat prevents the dip from becoming greasy.
  • Serve with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg

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