Name: Pontoon dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup diced green chilies or jalapeños (optional); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is warm, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to throw together, requires minimal prep, and can be made in the oven, slow cooker, or even on the grill while out on the pontoon. It’s the ultimate comfort appetizer that disappears fast at gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
Cream cheese, softened
Sour cream
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Green chilies or jalapeños, diced (optional for heat)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and black pepper
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving

Directions

In a skillet, cook sausage until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.
In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, cooked sausage, cheddar, mozzarella, green chilies, and seasonings.
Transfer mixture to a baking dish or slow cooker.
Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes (or heat in slow cooker on low for 2 hours) until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with green onions and serve hot with chips or crackers.

Servings and timing

Serves 8–10.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Use hot sausage and extra jalapeños for more kick.
Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning and black beans.
Veggie Version: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
Cheese Lovers: Try adding pepper jack or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For slow cooker leftovers, reheat on low. Freezing is not recommended, as dairy may separate.

FAQs

Can I make pontoon dip ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it ahead and bake or heat when ready to serve.

Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Absolutely, cook on low for 2–3 hours until hot and bubbly.

What chips work best with pontoon dip?

Tortilla chips, pita chips, or buttery crackers pair well.

Can I add vegetables to this dip?

Yes, corn, peppers, or spinach work well for extra texture.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but the dip may not be as creamy.

Can I serve this dip cold?

It’s best served hot and melty, though it can be eaten at room temperature.

How do I make it more filling?

Add cooked pasta to turn it into a casserole-style dish.

Can I grill pontoon dip?

Yes, bake it in a foil pan on the grill until hot and bubbly.

How long can pontoon dip sit out?

No more than 2 hours at room temperature.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger dish or slow cooker to accommodate.

Conclusion

Pontoon dip is a cheesy, meaty, and irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you make it for a lakeside gathering, game night, or casual party, this easy dip is guaranteed to be a hit. Serve it hot, bubbly, and loaded with flavor for the ultimate comfort snack.