Kamil Perry
There are many types of cheese that can be used for chili, and the choice of cheese often depends on personal preference. Some popular options include cheddar, cream cheese, pepper jack, sour cream, parmesan, feta, blue cheese, and goat cheese. When making a chili cheese dip, it is recommended to use shredded cheese as it melts more smoothly and tastes better than pre-shredded cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of ingredients | 4 |
| Preparation time | 10 minutes |
| Cheese | Cream cheese, Pepperjack, Sharp cheddar, Monterey |
| Other ingredients | Salsa, Milk |
| Serving suggestions | Tortilla chips, Bread cubes, Vegetables, Hot dog, Nachos, Baked potatoes |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese is the most popular choice
Cheddar cheese is widely available and affordable, making it a convenient choice for those looking to add a cheesy twist to their chilli. Its ability to melt smoothly and evenly also makes it a good option for those looking to add a creamy texture to their dish. When shredded, cheddar cheese can be easily incorporated into chilli, creating a rich and savoury flavour profile.
Additionally, cheddar has a relatively high melting point compared to other cheeses, which means it can retain its shape and texture even when exposed to high temperatures. This makes it suitable for dishes like chilli cheese dip, where the cheese is cooked and served warm. The slow-melting property of cheddar ensures that it retains its integrity and doesn't become greasy or overly runny.
For those who want to experiment with their chilli and cheese combinations, there are several other options to consider. Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese are often recommended as alternatives to cheddar. These cheeses have a slightly different flavour profile and can add a spicy kick to your chilli. American processed cheese is also known for its exceptional melting qualities and can create a smooth, creamy texture when added to chilli.
Ultimately, while cheddar cheese is the most popular and versatile choice for chilli, there are several other cheeses that can be used to add unique flavours and textures. The type of cheese you choose will depend on your personal preference, the specific chilli recipe, and the desired flavour profile you wish to achieve.
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Blue cheese for beef chilli
Blue cheese is a popular choice to pair with beef. Its bold, salty flavour and soft texture that melts quickly make it an excellent addition to beef chilli. Blue cheese is commonly used in beef dishes such as steak and pasta, and its strong flavour can add a kick to beef chilli.
A blue cheese sauce can be made to accompany beef chilli. This can be done by warming heavy cream in a saucepan and bringing it to a gentle simmer. Blue cheese is then added and mashed into the cream until a few lumps are visible. Once the cheese has melted, Worcestershire sauce is added, and the sauce is simmered until it is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This sauce can be served on the side or spooned over the chilli.
Blue cheese can also be crumbled and sprinkled on top of beef chilli as a garnish. This can add a tangy flavour to the dish. A blue cheese chilli dip can be made by placing cream cheese cubes in a slow cooker and covering them with chilli, salsa, and cheddar cheese. This dip can be served with tortilla chips, bread cubes, or vegetables, or it can be used as a topping for hot dogs, nachos, or baked potatoes.
When choosing a variety of blue cheese, it is worth experimenting with different types to find your favourite. Some popular varieties include Gorgonzola, which is known for its creamy texture and mild flavour, as well as Cashel Blue, Buttermilk Blue, and Maytag Blue.
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Cream cheese for a dip
Cream cheese is a key ingredient in many chili cheese dip recipes. This dip is an easy-to-make, ultimate party appetizer that can be made on the stovetop, in the oven, or using a slow cooker. It is a great snack for game days, holidays, and backyard BBQs.
To make the dip, you will need softened cream cheese, chili, and shredded cheese. You can use canned or homemade chili, and for the shredded cheese, pepper jack and sharp cheddar are popular choices. Some recipes also include additional ingredients such as salsa, onion, and cilantro.
Ingredients:
- Softened cream cheese
- Chili ?(canned or homemade)
- Shredded cheese (pepper jack and sharp cheddar)
- Optional: salsa, onion, and cilantro
Stovetop and Oven Method:
- Combine the cream cheese and chili in a small saucepan and cook until the cream cheese melts.
- Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan or similar-sized dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes.
- Top with chopped onion and cilantro, if desired.
- Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables for dipping.
Slow Cooker Method:
- Spray the bottom of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or use a liner.
- Place cream cheese cubes in the slow cooker and cover them with chili.
- Add a layer of salsa, if using.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Cook on LOW for 1-3 hours.
- Stir and serve with your desired dippers.
This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It can also be frozen for future use. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and rewarm it on the stovetop or in the oven.
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Goat cheese or feta
Feta and goat cheese are both white cheeses made from goat's milk. However, feta typically contains more sheep's milk than goat's milk, with at least 70% of its milk coming from sheep and no more than 30% from goats. On the other hand, goat cheese is made from 100% goat's milk.
Feta is a Greek cheese that ages in brine and has no rind. It is a soft, dry, and crumbly cheese with a salty and tangy flavour that ranges from mild to sharp. It is not easy to spread, and its exterior may feel slimy due to the brine. However, it can be crumbled into dips or sprinkled on salads and flatbreads.
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, ranges from soft and fresh to hard and aged. The most common variety is semi-soft and spreadable but also crumbly. Harder goat cheeses can be grated or shaved. Goat cheese has a distinctive flavour that is tart, earthy, and slightly gamy, sometimes sweeter depending on the goats. It is smoother than feta and spreadable at room temperature, but it becomes crumbly when chilled.
Both cheeses can be eaten cold or hot and used in similar ways while cooking. They can be included in dips, meat and cheese boards, salads, and cooked dishes.
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Chilli cheese dip with tortilla chips
This chilli cheese dip is a perfect snack for a party or game day. It can be made in just 10 minutes with only 4 ingredients! It is best served warm, but it also retains a good dipping consistency when cold or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups of chilli (homemade, canned, or leftover)
- 4 ounces of cream cheese (full-fat Philadelphia brand, softened, at room temperature)
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (pepper jack and sharp cheddar, shredded at home)
- 1/4 cup of salsa (homemade or store-bought)
- Cayenne pepper or hot sauce (optional)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions:
- Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the cheese is bubbly and melted, about 5 minutes.
- Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy!
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions:
The chilli cheese dip can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. To freeze, place the dip in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and rewarm on the stove before serving.
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Frequently asked questions
The most popular cheese to serve with chili is cheddar cheese, with personal preference dictating whether it be mild, medium, or sharp.
Yes, other cheeses that can be used for chili include cream cheese, pepper jack, sour cream, parmesan, havarti, feta, blue cheese, muenster, manchego, queso cotija, goat cheese, and more.
To make chili cheese dip, cook your desired type of chili and grate your chosen cheese. Then, add the chili and cheese to a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until everything is melted together and well combined. You can serve this dip with tortilla chips, bread cubes, or vegetables.
Yes, you can make chili cheese dip in a slow cooker. First, spray the bottom of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or use a liner. Then, place cream cheese cubes in the bottom and pour chili on top. Add salsa and cheddar cheese, and cook on low for 1-3 hours.
