This Cheesy Baked Dip is the perfect comfort food for any gathering or cozy night in. Creamy, savory, and loaded with cheese and pasta shells, this warm dip offers a delightful fusion of a rich cheese sauce, ground meat, and tender pasta all baked into one irresistible dish. It is a hearty and indulgent treat that feels like a cross between a dip and a creamy pasta bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its creamy texture, robust flavors, and versatility. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works as both an appetizer and a main dish. Whether served with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or simply eaten with a spoon, this dip brings serious comfort. The blend of cheeses, tender pasta shells, and savory meat makes it perfect for game nights, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pasta shells
- Ground sausage or beef
- Cream cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Heavy cream or milk
- Garlic
- Onion
- Spinach (optional, for added color and nutrition)
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil or butter
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground sausage or beef over medium heat until browned. Remove excess grease.
- Add chopped garlic and onion to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese, allowing it to melt completely.
- Add the heavy cream or milk, followed by shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until the mixture becomes a smooth, cheesy sauce.
- Fold in the cooked pasta and spinach (if using), seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve hot as a dip with bread or chips, or enjoy as a cheesy pasta dish.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 to 8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add more spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Bacon Lover’s Twist: Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute pasta with cauliflower florets.
- Extra Creamy: Add a touch of sour cream or a spoonful of ricotta to the cheese mixture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through. If it thickens, add a splash of milk when reheating to regain the creamy texture.
FAQs
What kind of pasta works best for this dip?
Shells are ideal as they hold the cheese well, but elbow macaroni or penne also work.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bake when ready to serve.
Is it possible to freeze this dip?
Yes, freeze it before baking for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, though freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.
What can I serve with cheesy baked dip?
It pairs well with baguette slices, tortilla chips, or even raw vegetables like carrots and celery.
Can I use chicken instead of beef or sausage?
Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great alternative.
How can I make it more nutritious?
Add more vegetables like kale, zucchini, or peas for extra fiber and nutrients.
Can I use a slow cooker instead of baking?
Yes, after mixing, you can cook it in a slow cooker on low for 2–3 hours until heated through.
How do I prevent the dip from becoming too thick?
Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating or during cooking if it thickens too much.
Can I make this dip gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and check that your cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Dip is the perfect fusion of creamy, cheesy decadence and hearty comfort. Whether served as an appetizer or a warm pasta-style dish, it delivers big flavors and a satisfying texture. With a few variations and easy prep, it’s a go-to recipe for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a cozy night in.
Print
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Cheesy Baked Dip is a rich, savory, and gooey comfort dish loaded with creamy cheese, tender pasta shells, and hints of spice and spinach. Whether served as a dip or a hearty pasta appetizer, it’s perfect for game day, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Keyword: Cheesy Baked Dip
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked pasta shells (al dente)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 onion, finely chopped
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1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
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1/2 cup cream cheese
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1/4 cup milk or cream to loosen if needed
Instructions
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Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko.
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Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
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In a small saucepan, combine glaze ingredients (except cornstarch slurry) and bring to simmer. Add slurry to thicken.
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Slice chicken, drizzle with teriyaki glaze, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Notes
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Can be made ahead and baked when ready to serve.
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Add crumbled sausage, bacon, or ground beef for a meaty version.
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Swap spinach with kale or broccoli for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese Fusion