Name: Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 stick butter (melted); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tsp dried basil; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional); ⅛ tsp pepper; 1 loaf baguette; ½ lb spicy Italian sausage (casings removed); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 bunch Swiss chard (about 1 ½ cups stems and 6 cups leaves); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (divided)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 81 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that balances bold flavors with comforting creaminess, the Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip Recipe is an absolute winner. This dip brings together savory spicy Italian sausage, tender Swiss chard, and a luscious blend of cheeses that bubble up golden and irresistible every single time. Whether it’s a family gathering, game day, or just casual snacking, this dip is sure to become one of your go-to favorites that keeps everyone reaching for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal baking tray with eleven pieces of sliced bread topped with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs like oregano and crushed red pepper flakes. Each slice has a pale, soft inside with many air holes, and the outside crust is light brown. The slices are arranged in neat rows on the tray, with the topping spread evenly across each piece. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip Recipe comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering a harmony of taste, texture, and vibrant color. From the hearty greens to the spicy sausage and creamy cheeses, every component is essential and easy to find.

Butter (1 stick, melted): Adds richness and helps create that irresistible garlic crostini base.
Garlic cloves (4, minced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic depth—both in crostini and dip.
Dried basil (2 tsp): Provides a subtle herbal note that brightens the flavors.
Garlic powder (½ tsp): Adds an extra garlic punch to complement the fresh minced garlic.
Kosher salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the savory flavors without overpowering.
Red chili flakes (¼ tsp, optional): Offers a gentle spicy kick perfect for those who like some heat.
Pepper (⅛ tsp): Balances the seasoning with a subtle zing.
Baguette (1 loaf): Thinly sliced and toasted for perfect crispy crostini to scoop that dip.
Spicy Italian sausage (½ lb, casings removed): The star protein that brings hearty spice and depth.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Used to sauté greens and enrich the skillet flavors.
Butter (1 tbsp): Adds a silky touch to the sautéed Swiss chard stems and leaves.
Swiss chard (1 bunch): Both the tender leaves and diced stems lend earthiness and vibrant color.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a creamy, dreamy base for the dip’s luscious texture.
Sour cream (½ cup): Adds tangy richness that balances the richness of cheese and meat.
Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Boosts creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded, divided): Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup shredded, divided): Adds nutty, umami notes and a golden brown crust on top.

How to Make Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Crostini

Start by turning your oven broiler on high. Mix melted butter with minced garlic, dried basil, garlic powder, kosher salt, red chili flakes, and pepper to create a fragrant garlic butter spread. Slice the baguette thinly on a slight angle, brush one side of each slice generously with the garlic butter, then arrange them on a baking sheet.

Broil these slices for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown, then flip them over and brush the other side with the remaining garlic butter. Broil again to get both sides perfectly crisp and golden. When done, place the crostini on a rack and let them cool slightly. This process ensures that each bite is crispy, buttery, and packed with garlicky goodness perfect for dipping.

Step 2: Cook the Spicy Sausage

Next up, sauté the spicy Italian sausage in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks until no longer pink and fully browned. Once cooked, drain the excess fat and set the sausage aside. The spicy sausage adds a punch of flavor and a satisfying meaty texture that sets this dip apart from any ordinary cheese spread.

Step 3: Prepare the Swiss Chard

Wash the Swiss chard thoroughly, then separate and finely dice the stems while roughly slicing the leaves into thin ribbons. In a skillet, warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced stems and sauté them for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, then stir in the sliced leaves just until they wilt. Transfer this fragrant, colorful mixture to a bowl and let it cool.

Step 4: Combine the Dip Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the cooked sausage and sautéed Swiss chard stems and leaves. Next, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup of parmesan cheese. This blend of ingredients creates a velvety, luscious dip that won’t let you stop at just one scoop.

Step 5: Bake the Dip

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Transfer the combined dip to an oven-safe dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of parmesan evenly over the top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dip is bubbling hot and the cheese topping turns a beautiful golden brown. The baking step melds all the flavors and textures together, delivering that perfectly indulgent, melty experience.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, serve the warm Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip alongside the garlic crostini you prepared earlier. The crisp crostini and creamy dip are a match made in heaven, but if you prefer something different, tortilla chips work just as well for scooping up this flavor-packed delight.

How to Serve Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip Recipe

The image shows a black cast iron skillet filled with a layered mixture. The bottom layer consists of a creamy blend with small bits of dark and green ingredients visible, likely vegetables and meat. On top is a thick layer of shredded white cheese, spread evenly and loosely piled to cover the creamy base. The skillet is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top of the dip just before serving. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add a lovely sheen and subtle richness. If you like things a bit spicier, a few extra red chili flakes sprinkled on top do the trick.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Freshly tossed mixed greens or a simple tomato and cucumber salad can balance the richness. For heartier options, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp charcuterie board to round out your appetizer spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by serving the dip inside a hollowed-out sourdough loaf or in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. You can create a festive platter by arranging the crostini, colorful veggies, and tortilla chips around the baked dip for inviting presentation and easy grazing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

This dip freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Transfer cooled dip into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, reheat the dip gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method helps maintain the beautiful melted cheese texture.

FAQs

Can I use other greens besides Swiss chard for this dip?

Absolutely! While Swiss chard adds a lovely earthy flavor and color, spinach or kale can be good substitutes. Just make sure to cook them down similarly before mixing into the dip.

Is it necessary to use spicy Italian sausage?

No, but using spicy sausage adds that wonderful kick that makes this dip special. If you prefer milder flavors, mild Italian sausage or even ground turkey can work in a pinch.

Can I make this dip vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for depth. You might also want to add extra cheese or beans for protein.

What can I use instead of baguette for dipping?

Tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, or even fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers make fantastic alternatives for scooping this flavorful dip.

How spicy is this dip?

The dip has a mild to moderate heat level due to the spicy sausage and optional chili flakes. You can adjust the chili flakes to taste or omit them entirely for a gentler version.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Sausage and Swiss Chard Dip Recipe is truly a gem that combines bold, comforting flavors with a touch of elegance. It’s easy to make, perfect for sharing, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to try it. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy dipping into something unforgettable!