Friendship Dip
This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.
Yesterday’s Super Bowl spread wouldn’t have been complete without a generous bowl of our family’s beloved Friendship Dip. This easy recipe, a cherished hand-me-down from a dear neighbor, has become a staple at our gatherings. I’ve always suspected it earned the name “Friendship Dip” because its irresistible flavor has a way of forging connections – anyone you share it with will instantly want to be your friend!
Beyond its delicious taste, this dip is truly fantastic because it is incredibly quick and effortless to prepare. This makes it a go-to for casual Sunday afternoons, impromptu family lunches, or any occasion where you are spending time around good food and good company. There’s something special about everyone dipping in, sharing stories and laughter, all thanks to this simple yet delightful creation.
Ingredients for Friendship Dip
- CREAM CHEESE
- CANNED CHILI
- CANNED DICED GREEN CHILIES
- SHREDDED CHEDDAR CHEESE
- SLICED OLIVES
- DICED GREEN ONION
Instructions for Friendship Dip
Prep Your Baking Dish: Choose a large pie plate (about 9-10 inches) or a pizza pan. The wider surface area is ideal for even baking and easy dipping.
Create the Creamy Base: Spread the softened cream cheese evenly across the bottom of your chosen baking dish. This creamy layer forms the foundation for all the deliciousness to come. Spoon the chili evenly over the layer of cream cheese. Gently spread it out so it covers most of the cream cheese.
Add a Touch of Heat: Sprinkle the undrained diced green chiles over the chili layer. The liquid from the can adds a bit of extra flavor and moisture.
Blanket with Cheese: Now for the cheesy goodness! Generously layer the shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend) over the green chiles, ensuring it covers the entire surface of the dip. Scatter the sliced black olives evenly over the top of the cheese layer. Their salty, briny flavor adds a wonderful contrast to the other ingredients.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the prepared dip in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot throughout, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges might be slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, if desired, garnish the hot dip with thinly sliced green onions and/or fresh cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately with plenty of crispy tortilla chips for scooping up all that cheesy, savory goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different kinds of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can use other cheeses or a blend, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack for a little spice, or even a Mexican cheese blend.
Can I make this easy dip ahead of time?
You can assemble the dip (layering all the ingredients) in the pie plate or pizza pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What if I don’t have a pie plate or pizza pan? Can I use another dish?
Yes, any oven-safe dish with a similar surface area will work.
Can I make this spicier?
Absolutely! You can use chili with beans and added spice, use hot green chiles, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili layer, or even drizzle with hot sauce after baking.
Do I need to drain the green chiles? The recipe says undrained.
The liquid from the canned green chiles adds a bit of moisture and flavor to the dip as it bakes. However, if you prefer a thicker dip, you can drain them.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
You can leave it at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 15-second intervals, checking and stirring in between, until softened but not melted.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Friendship Dip
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 8 oz pkg cream cheese, softened
- 15 oz can chili
- 4 oz can diced green chilies (I only use half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- sliced olives
- diced green onion optional
Instructions
- In a large pie plate (or a pizza pan will work) spread cream cheese. Then layer on top of cream cheese in this order: chili, green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese (enough to cover), and sliced olives.
- Bake at 350 degrees until hot and melted (approximately 20-25 minutes). Garnish with green onion and serve with tortilla chips.
