Step 1: Brown the Sausge and Onion
Start by browning the Italian sausage and diced onion in a large pan over medium heat. Cook until the sausage is fully browned with no pink remaining, and the onions are soft and translucent. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep the dip from being too greasy.
Step 2: Melt the Cheeses
Lower the heat slightly, then add the processed cheese block and cream cheese directly into the pan. Stir continuously until both cheeses are completely melted and smooth. The key here is patience—make sure everything is well-combined and creamy!
Step 3: Add Flavor and Heat
Now, whisk in the dry mustard powder, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Keep stirring as you bring the mixture to a gentle bubble. This step enhances the depth of flavor, giving the dip that little extra something that makes it so addictive.
Step 4: Finish with Cheddar
Finally, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until it’s fully melted and the dip has a luscious, gooey consistency. The smell when this is on the stove is incredible!!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the dip into a serving bowl and bring it straight to the table while it’s still hot and bubbly. Serve with plenty of tortilla chips or crostini, and watch it disappear!
Helpful Tips
Slow Cooker Option: Want to keep the dip warm throughout your event? Transfer the finished dip to a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. This way, it stays perfectly melted and ready to serve all night long.
Spice Level:
For those who love a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the milk. This dip is versatile and can handle a bit of heat!
Cheese Matters: While sharp cheddar adds a nice tang, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for some extra zest, or gouda for a smokier flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
Meatless Option: Swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative or simply add more onions and peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Different Sausage: Try using chorizo or breakfast sausage instead of Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Extra Creamy: For an even creamier dip, stir in a quarter cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance. Simply reheat it on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving. You might need to add a splash of milk to loosen it up as it reheats.
What Can I Serve with This Dip?
Tortilla chips and crostini are classic choices, but you can also serve this dip with fresh veggie sticks, pretzels, or even use it as a topping for baked potatoes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
Storage Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers (which rarely happens in my experience!), simply transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warm and creamy again. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s heated through.
Ingredients
12 ounces Italian sausage
½ cup onion, diced
8 ounces processed cheese block (such as Velveeta)
4 ounces cream cheese
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
Brown the Sausage and Onion: In a large pan, cook the Italian sausage and diced onion over medium heat until the sausage is fully browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
Melt the Cheeses: Add the processed cheese block and cream cheese to the pan. Stir continuously over medium heat until melted and smooth.
Add Flavor and Heat: Whisk in the dry mustard powder, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir as the mixture comes to a gentle bubble.
Finish with Cheddar: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined.
Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips or crostini.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dip a day in advance and reheat it before serving. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen it up.
Keep Warm: To keep the dip warm during your event, transfer it to a slow cooker on the “warm” setting.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
Serving Size: 1/8Calories: 290Sugar: 3gSodium: 670 mgFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 11 gUnsaturated Fat: 8 gTrans Fat: 0 gCarbohydrates: 6 gFiber: 0Protein: 12 gCholesterol: 60mg
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