Okay, if you need a quick and easy party dip that everyone will crowd around—this 5-Ingredient Football Dip is it. It’s cheesy, creamy, meaty, and just the right amount of spicy. The best part? It takes literally minutes to throw together and is always the first thing to disappear on the snack table. No fancy prep, no long ingredient list—just big flavor in a cozy, scoopable dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is the definition of fuss-free comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a full-on tailgate party or just lounging in your pajamas watching the game, it hits the spot. You only need five ingredients, it comes together in one skillet or slow cooker, and it tastes like something you spent way more time on. It’s warm, gooey, and perfect with tortilla chips, crackers, or even straight off a spoon.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to get started (you’ll find the full list with measurements down below):

Ground sausage
Cream cheese
Rotel (or any canned diced tomatoes with green chiles)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream

Brown the Sausage

Start by cooking the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s fully browned and crumbly. Break it up as it cooks so it’s evenly distributed and not in big chunks.

Add the Cream Cheese and Rotel

Once the sausage is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the cream cheese and the can of Rotel. Let it all melt together, stirring often, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Stir in the Cheddar

Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts completely into the dip. This is when it starts to get really gooey and irresistible.

Finish with Sour Cream

Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream for that final creamy, tangy touch. It balances the spice and gives the dip an extra smooth finish.

Serve Hot and Dig In

Scoop it straight into a serving bowl or small slow cooker to keep warm. Serve it with sturdy chips or crackers—because this dip is thick and satisfying.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use spicy sausage for extra kick, or stick with mild if you prefer it tamer
Make it ahead and just reheat before serving—it’s just as good the next day
If the dip gets too thick while sitting, stir in a splash of milk or more sour cream to loosen it up
Want it extra cheesy? Toss a little extra cheddar on top before serving

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap sausage for ground beef, chorizo, or plant-based crumbles
Use pepper jack instead of cheddar for more heat
Add a can of black beans or corn to bulk it up a little
For a Tex-Mex twist, sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dip is a natural with tortilla chips or corn chips, but it also pairs well with pretzel bites, baguette slices, or celery sticks if you’re keeping things low-carb. Serve it next to wings, sliders, or nachos for the ultimate game-day spread. And don’t forget a cold beer or fizzy soda to wash it down.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover dip will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warm. You can also freeze it, though the texture may change slightly—just reheat with a splash of milk to bring it back together.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just brown the sausage first, then combine everything in the slow cooker on low until melted and warm—about 1–2 hours.

Is this dip spicy?
It has a little kick from the Rotel and sausage, but nothing overpowering. You can adjust the heat with mild or hot ingredients.

Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This dip scales up easily for a crowd—just use a larger skillet or slow cooker.

What’s the best way to keep it warm for a party?
A mini slow cooker or fondue pot works perfectly to keep the dip warm and scoopable throughout your gathering.

Conclusion

This 5-Ingredient Football Dip is your go-to for easy entertaining. It’s simple, hearty, and completely crave-worthy. Whether you’re serving it on game day or just need a no-fail party snack, it’s sure to be the hit of the night. Make it once, and you’ll be bringing it to every potluck and tailgate from now on.

This 5-Ingredient Football Dip Is the MVP of Game Day Snacks

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This 5-Ingredient Football Dip is the ultimate game-day snack. It’s cheesy, creamy, savory, and just the right amount of spicy—all made in one skillet or slow cooker. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this crowd-pleasing dip is a must-have at your next tailgate, potluck, or cozy night in.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Skillet or Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground sausage (spicy or mild)
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese
1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chiles), undrained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream

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Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease if needed.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and Rotel. Cook until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted and gooey.
Remove from heat and stir in sour cream until fully combined.
Transfer to a serving bowl or slow cooker to keep warm. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.