Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this creamy sausage dip will become a favorite.
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Only 3 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking (except browning the sausage).
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Creamy and cheesy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves cheese dip.
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Budget-friendly. Sausage, cheese, and tomatoes are inexpensive.
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Perfect for parties, game days, and gatherings.
Ingredients
Servings: 10 to 12
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1 pound bulk pork breakfast sausage or mild Italian sausage, casings removed
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1 (32-ounce) block processed American cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
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2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
Ingredient Notes
Sausage: Use bulk pork breakfast sausage or mild Italian sausage. Remove casings if using links.
American cheese: Use processed American cheese like Velveeta. Cut it into cubes.
Tomatoes with green chilies: Use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies. Do not drain them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the sausage and cook, stirring often, until it is well browned and no pink remains, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
When the sausage is cooked through, tilt the skillet and spoon off most of the excess grease, leaving just a light coating.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the cubed processed American cheese into a 3- to 4-quart slow cooker. Spoon the browned sausage over the top. Pour in both cans of diced tomatoes with green chilies, including all the juices.
Step 4: Heat Until Melted and Bubbly
Cover and cook on HIGH for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or on LOW for 2 to 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, thick, and bubbling.
Step 5: Hold Warm for Serving
Turn the slow cooker to WARM and give the dip a final stir. Serve with sturdy tortilla chips.
Stovetop Option
If short on time, combine the browned sausage, cheese cubes, and tomatoes in a heavy saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the dip is thick and creamy.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Dip
This warm, cheesy dip is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Tortilla Chips: Classic and perfect for scooping.
With Vegetables: Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips.
With Bread: Serve with sliced baguette or toast points.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with cilantro or parsley.
With Hot Sauce: Add a dash of heat.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Hot Sausage: Use hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
Make It with Pepper Jack: Add pepper jack cheese for spice.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Jalapeños: Add diced jalapeños.
Make It with Onion: Add finely chopped onion.
Make It with Garlic: Add garlic powder.
Make It with Cilantro: Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Brown the sausage well. This adds flavor.
Drain the fat. Excess grease can make the dip greasy.
Stir occasionally. This prevents sticking and ensures even melting.
Do not overheat. The cheese should be melted, not scorched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different sausage?
Yes. Hot Italian sausage or turkey sausage can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Velveeta works best.
Can I use a different tomato product?
Yes. Rotel tomatoes with green chilies are classic.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my dip runny?
The cheese may not have melted completely. Stir and cook longer.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 4 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I make this in the microwave?
Yes. Microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring between each, until melted.
The Beauty of Sausage Dips
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy, cheesy dip that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This creamy sausage dip is a celebration of all those things.
Keep sausage in your freezer. Keep cheese and tomatoes in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 to 1 1/2 hours on HIGH or 2 to 3 hours on LOW
Total Time: Approximately 1 to 3 hours
Yield: 10 to 12 servings