Why You’ll Love Best Crock Pot Ground Turkey Cheese Dip Recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy hosts. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to focus on entertaining or preparing other dishes.
Using ground turkey keeps the dip a bit lighter than traditional beef versions, while still delivering hearty flavor and texture. The combination of creamy cheese and mild heat from tomatoes and jalapeños creates a balanced dip that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
It’s also highly customizable. You can adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or add extra ingredients to make it your own. Whether you’re serving it with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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ground turkey
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queso blanco or processed white cheese, cubed
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diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
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fresh jalapeños, finely diced
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garlic powder
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chili powder
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salt, to taste
Directions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink and lightly browned.
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Drain any excess liquid from the skillet if necessary.
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Stir in the garlic powder, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to evenly season the meat.
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Transfer the cooked turkey to your slow cooker.
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Add the cubed queso blanco, diced tomatoes with green chiles (including their juices), and diced jalapeños.
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Cover and cook on high for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is completely melted and the dip is smooth.
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Once fully melted and combined, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting for serving. Stir occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.
Servings and timing
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 1 to 3 hours depending on slow cooker setting
Total time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: About 8 servings (approximately 4–5 cups of dip)
Variations
For a spicier dip, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also mix in a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or ground beef if preferred. For a richer flavor, try adding a small block of cream cheese along with the queso.
To make it heartier, stir in a drained can of black beans or corn. You can even top the dip with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or diced tomatoes before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm the dip in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
If the dip thickens too much after chilling, stir in a small splash of milk while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
For longer storage, freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture may be slightly different after freezing, but it will still be flavorful.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving.
Is this dip very spicy?
The spice level is mild to moderate. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeños or removing their seeds.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of queso blanco?
You can, but processed melting cheese or queso blanco creates a smoother texture. Shredded cheese may result in a slightly grainier dip.
What can I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips are the most popular choice, but it also pairs well with corn chips, pita chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables like bell peppers and celery.
Can I make this dip on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes. After browning the turkey, add all ingredients to a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently until melted and smooth.
How do I keep the dip warm during a party?
Leave it in the slow cooker on the warm setting and stir occasionally to maintain a creamy consistency.
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
You can try using a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, but the flavor and texture may differ from the original version.
What’s the best way to prevent the dip from becoming too thick?
Stir it occasionally while it’s cooking and add a small amount of milk if it becomes too thick.
Can I add vegetables to the dip?
Yes, finely diced onions, bell peppers, corn, or black beans make great additions and add extra texture and flavor.
How long can the dip sit out at room temperature?
For food safety, it’s best not to leave the dip out for more than 2 hours. Keep it warm in the slow cooker when serving.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Ground Turkey Cheese Dip is a simple yet satisfying appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, customizable spice level, and easy preparation, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a warm, cheesy snack, this dip delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
