If you’re looking to wow friends and family with a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible comfort, you absolutely must try this Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip Recipe. It’s the perfect mix of spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and wholesome black-eyed peas that come together to create a rich, hearty dip that invites everyone to dig in again and again. Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dip never fails to bring people together with smiles and satisfied appetites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the flavor and texture of this dish. Each one plays a specific role in building layers of taste, from the spicy kick of the hot pork sausage to the creamy smoothness of cream cheese and sour cream—and don’t forget the earthy black-eyed peas providing a unique twist.
- 1 lb hot pork sausage: The spicy backbone of the dip, adding robust flavor and a little heat.
- 2 (15-oz) cans black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed: These add a hearty texture and subtle earthiness that’s a delicious contrast to the sausage.
- 1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained: A zesty component that brings moisture and a mild kick.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened: Adds creamy richness that binds everything together perfectly.
- 1 cup sour cream: Introduces tanginess and smooth texture for balance.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: This melts and bubbles on top, creating the signature cheesy goodness that makes the dip so irresistible.
How to Make Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Sausage
Start by heating your oven to 350ºF and spraying your skillet or baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Next, cook the hot pork sausage over medium-high heat in a skillet until it’s thoroughly browned and no longer pink. This step is essential because browning the sausage releases flavorful fats and develops that savory depth you want in the dip. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the dip from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add the cooked sausage along with the rinsed black-eyed peas, drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly until you have a well-blended, creamy mixture with lots of visual appeal from the peppers and beans.
Step 3: Bake Until Bubbling
Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared skillet or baking dish, smoothing it evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dip is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. That tempting aroma filling your kitchen is reason enough to get excited about digging in!
How to Serve Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions or a few slices of jalapeño can amp up the visual appeal and add a fresh, zesty bite that complements the spicy sausage beautifully. If you want even more creaminess, dollop a little sour cream on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dip loves good company. Serve it alongside crispy tortilla chips, crunchy celery sticks, or toasted baguette slices for scooping. The contrasting textures make every bite exciting and satisfying, turning simple snack time into a flavorful feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the chip? Use this Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip Recipe as a filling for stuffed mini peppers or wrap it in warm flour tortillas for loaded wraps. It also makes a fantastic topping for baked potatoes or as a creamy layer in nacho platters that will disappear fast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before reheating to keep the texture nice and creamy.
Freezing
This dip freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the dip gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If the dip seems a bit dry, stir in a splash of sour cream or milk to revive the creamy texture. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use mild sausage instead of hot sausage?
Absolutely! Using mild sausage will give you the same great texture with less heat, letting the other flavors shine through. Feel free to adjust the spice by adding a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you want to customize the kick.
Are black-eyed peas necessary, or can I substitute another bean?
Black-eyed peas have a unique flavor and texture that really define this dip. However, pinto or navy beans can be substituted in a pinch; just expect a slightly different but still delicious result.
Can I make this dip vegetarian?
Yes, swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms with smoked paprika to keep the savory depth. You’ll still end up with a flavorful, hearty dip everyone will love.
Is this dip spicy enough for heat lovers?
Since it’s made with hot pork sausage and diced tomatoes with green chiles, this Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip Recipe packs a nice level of spiciness. You can always add extra chopped jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer it hotter.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal because it melts beautifully and adds a tangy richness that complements the spicy sausage and creamy base. You can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack for extra meltiness if you like.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s simple to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for sharing with friends and family at any gathering. Dive in and enjoy the rich, spicy, and creamy magic that this dip brings to the table—you’ll keep coming back for more!
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Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This Hot Sausage Black-Eyed Pea Dip is a flavorful and hearty appetizer perfect for gatherings. Combining spicy pork sausage with black-eyed peas, creamy cheese, and a hint of diced tomatoes and green chiles, it delivers a warm, savory dip that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb hot pork sausage
Beans and Vegetables
- 2 (15-oz) cans black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained
Dairy
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 12-inch skillet or a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the hot pork sausage thoroughly until no longer pink, stirring occasionally to break it up. Once cooked, drain excess fat.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the drained black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes with green chiles, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the mixture into the prepared skillet or baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly throughout.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat level by using mild sausage or adding extra diced green chiles.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
- For a thicker dip, drain excess liquid from the diced tomatoes and green chiles thoroughly.
- This dip can also be prepared in advance and baked just before serving to save time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
