First Down Dip
There’s nothing quite like gathering with friends and family for game day, and when it comes to snacks, First Down Dip is always a hit! I remember the first time I made this creamy concoction; it was for a big playoff game. The excitement in the air was palpable, and I wanted to serve something that would elevate the whole experience. As I whipped up this dip, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of melted cheese and savory spices, immediately capturing everyone’s attention. As soon as I set it down on the table, surrounded by crispy tortilla chips, it disappeared within moments! It’s a dish that has become a staple at every gathering since, loved for its creamy texture and flavor-packed ingredients.
Recipe Snapshot
28 mins
15 mins
13 mins
Medium
210 kcal
12 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife
What You’ll Enjoy About This First Down Dip
Perfect for Every Occasion
One of the reasons I absolutely adore First Down Dip is its versatility. Whether it’s a casual get-together, a holiday party, or a game day gathering, this dip fits perfectly into any occasion. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Just heat it up before serving, and you’ll wow your guests!
Bold Flavors that Shine
This dip packs a punch! The combination of cream cheese, black beans, and chicken creates a rich, creamy base that is both hearty and satisfying. Plus, with the addition of chopped green onions and diced tomatoes, each bite bursts with fresh flavors. It’s a dish that truly satisfies those savory cravings!
Easy-to-Follow Recipe
If you’re worried about complex cooking techniques, fear not! First Down Dip is incredibly simple to make. The steps are straightforward, meaning anyone can whip it up, regardless of their cooking skills. All you need is a mixing bowl, a few ingredients, and a little time to bake.
Customizable to Your Taste
Another fantastic aspect of this dip is its adaptability. You can easily modify the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to make it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños! Prefer a vegetarian version? Just skip the chicken and increase the beans. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Sharing
There’s something special about a communal dish like First Down Dip. It brings people together as they gather around the bowl, dipping their chips and sharing stories. The laughter and conversation that flow as you enjoy this dip create memories that last far beyond the meal itself.
First Down Dip Ingredients
When crafting the perfect First Down Dip, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating that delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dip features a wonderful blend of creamy and savory ingredients that meld beautifully together, making every bite a treat. The key players here include cream cheese, black beans, and diced chicken, which form the heart of this indulgent dish.
- Two 8-ounce packages cream cheese, at room temperature: This is the foundation of your dip, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- One 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed: These add protein and a hearty texture to the dip, making it more filling.
- 1½ cups cooked, diced chicken: Using shredded chicken gives the dip additional heartiness and protein.
- ½ cup diced tomatoes: This adds a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color to the dip.
- ½ cup chopped green onions: They bring a hint of sharpness that balances the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon sour cream: This enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil: Fresh herbs elevate the dish with bright, aromatic flavors.
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced: This introduces a savory depth that makes the dip irresistible.
- Tabasco, to taste: A few dashes of this hot sauce adds a delightful kick to the flavor profile.
- Seasoned salt, to taste: This enhances all the flavors and brings the dish together.
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese (or just cheddar): Sprinkling cheese on top gives a golden, bubbly finish as it bakes.
- Tortilla chips, for dunking: These are essential for enjoying the dip and providing the perfect crunchy contrast.
Putting Together First Down Dip
Making First Down Dip is a breeze, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish comes together! Follow these simple steps to create a delightful appetizer sure to impress your guests. Be prepared for the delicious aroma that will fill your kitchen as it bakes!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This is the perfect temperature to melt the ingredients together without burning them.
- In a large mixing bowl, take the cream cheese and beat it with an electric mixer until it’s smooth. It should be fluffy and creamy, with no lumps.
- Now, add the black beans, cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, sour cream, chopped basil, and minced garlic to the bowl. Stir everything gently by hand until well combined. You want to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Next, add a few dashes of Tabasco and seasoned salt to the mixture. This is where you can customize the spice level. Taste it and adjust the seasoning to your liking; it should be flavorful and slightly spicy.
- Once the mixture is ready, transfer it into an oven-safe dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure it’s nice and smooth on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese evenly over the top of the dip. This is where the magic happens, as it will melt and form a delicious golden crust.
- Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 13 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- After baking, carefully remove the dip from the oven. Let it cool for a minute before serving, as it will be hot. You want to avoid burning your tongue!
- Serve the First Down Dip with tortilla chips for dunking. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with friends and family.
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This ensures it mixes smoothly without lumps.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the dip while it’s in the oven. Remove it once the cheese is bubbly and golden to avoid overcooking.
- Perfect for Leftovers: If you have any dip left over, it can be stored in the refrigerator and easily reheated.
- Customize Your Dip: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like jalapeños for extra heat or different types of cheese for varied flavor.
Tips and Tricks about First Down Dip
To ensure your First Down Dip is always a hit, here are some tips and tricks that I’ve picked up over the years. By following these suggestions, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing appetizer every time!
- Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about three to four days.
- Freezing: While I don’t recommend freezing this dip, if you must, freeze it without the cheese. Add the cheese right before baking.
- Pairing: This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of chips, but it’s also delicious with fresh vegetables like carrots and celery.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves a crowd, making it ideal for parties or gatherings. Adjust the quantities depending on your guest list.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dip a day before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven before serving for a quick, tasty appetizer!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving First Down Dip, the options are as plentiful as they are delicious! Here’s how I like to present this creamy delight:
- Game Day Essential: Serve this dip at your next game day gathering. It’s perfect for snacking while cheering on your favorite team!
- Pair with Drinks: This dip is fantastic alongside a selection of drinks, including soft drinks or iced tea, making it a hit at any casual gathering.
- Veggie Option: For a lighter touch, offer fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots for dipping alongside the chips.
- Buffet Style: Include the dip as part of a buffet spread, alongside other appetizers like wings, sliders, and salads.
- Seasonal Touch: During fall gatherings, incorporate seasonal items like pumpkin-flavored chips or serve it with a warm bread bowl for a cozy vibe.
- Leftover Usage: If you have any leftover dip, mix it into pasta for a quick and comforting meal on a busy night.
FAQ
Conclusion
The creamy goodness of First Down Dip makes it a must-try for any gathering. It combines rich flavors, ease of preparation, and the joy of sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next get-together; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t miss out on the chance to create delicious memories with this delightful dip!
First Down Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, soften the cream cheese by beating it until smooth with an electric mixer.
- Add the black beans, cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, sour cream, chopped basil, and garlic and stir by hand until combined.
- Add the Tabasco and seasoned salt until you reach desired taste.
- Scrape the dip into an oven-safe dish. Spread the shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese on top.
- Bake at 350 degrees until the cheese is brown and bubbly, about 13 minutes.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Notes
- Nutritional information: does not include tortilla chips.
- Gluten-free: If you are making this recipe gluten-free, just be sure to use chicken, black beans, and tortilla chips that are known to be GF.
