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Skyline Dip

A warm, cheesy appetizer loaded with authentic Cincinnati chili flavors, perfect for game days and parties.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American, Cincinnati-style
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 can 15 ounces Cincinnati chili, drained well
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
  • 2 tablespoons diced onion for garnish
  • Tortilla chips or crackers for serving

Equipment

  • 9-inch round or 8x8-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Can opener
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.
  3. Drain the canned Cincinnati chili in a fine mesh strainer to remove excess liquid.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder; stir until smooth, about 2 minutes.
  5. Fold in the drained chili and diced yellow onion until evenly distributed.
  6. Season with black pepper and cayenne pepper, tasting and adjusting seasonings as needed.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and diced onion on top of the dip.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the dip rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Drain the chili thoroughly to prevent a watery dip and let the dip rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow it to set.