Easy homemade spicy dips with hot sauces

How can you effortlessly add bold and unique flavor combinations to snacks and meals?

There’s a chili sauce dip for every taste: sweet chili, umami garlic, fiery chipotle, fresh jalapeño… As a base, you can use sour cream, crème fraîche, yogurt, or avocado—whether you’re making a dip for chips, tacos, wings, vegetables, or special diets.

By whipping up one or more chili-based dips, you can easily and quickly take snacks and everyday meals to the next level. Let’s dive into recipes for the best homemade dips made with chili sauces—along with tips for tweaking flavor profiles and storing your dips.

The basics of making chili dips

A chili dip is easy to tailor to your own taste—it adds versatility and just the right amount of heat to a wide range of dishes. The ingredients and sauces you use can vary depending on how spicy or rich a flavor you’re aiming for.

Dip bases: dairy and vegan options

When making dips, choosing the right base is essential—it should complement the flavors of the chili sauce and maintain the dip’s texture. Dairy products such as sour cream, cream cheese, and smetana give the dip a smooth, creamy consistency. At the same time, they help balance the heat, as fat naturally softens spiciness.

Vegan options work best when they have enough fat content to create a creamy texture. The best vegan dip bases are typically made from oat-, soy-, or nut-based products, such as vegan sour cream, crème fraîche, or cream cheese. Avocado is also an excellent choice for a dip base, as its rich texture and mild flavor allow the chili and spices to really shine.

Herbs, vegetables, and spices

Herbs can add flavor and freshness to a dip, complementing the spiciness of chili. For example, fresh cilantro, dill, parsley, or basil work especially well in green and fresh-tasting dips.

Vegetables such as onions, garlic, and bell peppers add both texture and flavor to a dip. Grated garlic delivers a bold punch, while roasted onion brings depth and a touch of sweetness.

Spices such as paprika powder, cumin, lime juice, or chili flakes add warmth and flavor. It’s best to season in small amounts and taste frequently to achieve the right balance.

Dip storage

Homemade dip usually keeps in the refrigerator for 2–3 days if made with fresh ingredients and stored in an airtight container. Yogurt- and sour-cream–based dips tend to last slightly longer than those made with crème fraîche.

If the dip contains fresh herbs, lemon juice, or lime, it’s best to use it within 1–2 days to keep the flavor fresh. Oil-based dips, such as a spicy cheddar cheese dip for nachos, can keep for up to 4 days.

• Store at +2 to +6 °C.
• Stir the dip before serving if it has separated.
• Do not freeze dairy-based dips, as the texture will become grainy.

Easy chili dip recipes

To find the right level of heat, start mild and add more spice after mixing. If you want a fresher flavor, add about ½–1 tsp of fresh cilantro or dill. For a richer dip, you can mix in a little mayonnaise, while a lighter version can be made using low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Soosikauppa’s tip: If you want more texture in your dip, add grated carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, or grated chili peppers.

Dip for wings

This easy homemade wings dip is rich and flavorful, making the perfect accompaniment for wings, nuggets, and also a wide range of (chicken-based) grilled dishes or snacks!

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or buffalo sauce)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ dl grated cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the chili sauce, garlic powder, paprika powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
3. Serve the dip with fried or grilled chicken wings.

Spicy pickle dip

This spicy pickle dip adds a fresh and fiery twist to the classic pickle dip!

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• ½ dl pickles, finely chopped (choose a slightly sweet pickle if you want a balanced flavor)
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or chipotle)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp paprika powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the chopped pickles and the chili sauce, garlic powder, paprika powder, and black pepper, then mix until well combined.
3. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, nachos, vegetables, or even chicken wings.

Spicy dip for chips

This spicy dip for chips is quick and easy to make. It’s rich and perfect for serving at a get-together! If you want extra richness, add a bit more cheese or use mayonnaise.

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• ½ dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 50 g cheddar cheese, grated
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (adjust the heat to your taste, e.g. Sriracha)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the grated cheddar cheese, chili sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder, and mix until smooth.
3. Serve with chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Spicy dip for tacos

This spicy taco dip is rich and flavorful, and works perfectly with nachos as well!

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• ½ dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• ⅓ dl grated cheddar cheese
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or chipotle)
• 1/2 tl paprikajauhetta
• ½ tsp taco seasoning
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the grated cheddar cheese, chili sauce, paprika powder, taco seasoning, and garlic powder, then mix until smooth.
3. Serve the dip with tacos, nachos, or fresh vegetables.

Spicy American dip

This spicy American-style dip is rich and flavorful, and works perfectly for get-togethers or cozy weeknights. If you like, sprinkle grated cheddar on top and place it in the oven for a moment—the cheese will melt, making the dip warm and even more delicious!

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 1 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or Tabasco)
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• ½ dl grated cheese (cheddar or another favorite cheese)
• 1/4 tl valkosipulijauhetta
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the chili sauce, taco seasoning, grated cheese, and garlic powder, then mix until well combined.
3. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, nachos, or vegetables.

Spicy garlic dip

This spicy garlic dip is the perfect choice for those who love a bold garlic flavor and a punch of heat!

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or chipotle)
• 2 cloves of garlic, crushed (or to taste)
• ½ tsp paprika powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ dl grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a more intense cheesy flavor)

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the crushed garlic, chili sauce, paprika powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. If using Parmesan, add it and mix well.
4. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, vegetables, or even warm chicken wings.

Spicy cheddar cheese dip

This easy spicy cheddar cheese dip is quick to make and delivers rich cheesy flavor with just the right amount of heat! If you like, you can warm the dip in the microwave or oven so the cheese melts perfectly and the dip is served warm.

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 150 g cheddar cheese, grated
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or chipotle, adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp paprika powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the grated cheddar cheese, chili sauce, paprika powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, nachos, or vegetables.

Spicy dip for chicken

This chili dip for chicken is quick to make and the perfect addition to grilled dishes or snacks! It also works well with other proteins, such as meatballs or vegetarian patties.

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 2–3 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or buffalo sauce)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ dl grated cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the chili sauce, garlic powder, paprika powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Serve the dip with grilled or fried chicken pieces, chicken wings, or chicken nuggets.

Spicy jalapeño dip

This easy jalapeño dip is rich and spicy, making it the perfect addition to tacos, nachos, or chicken wings!

Ingredients:

• 200 g tuorejuustoa, notkistettuna
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 2–3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (remove the seeds if you want it less spicy)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1–2 tbsp chipotle sauce, or a chili sauce with lime or garlic
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tl mustapippuria
• Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Finely chop the jalapeños and mix them into the dip. Add the lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, nachos, or vegetables.

Healthy dip with chili sauce

This low-calorie spicy dip is perfect for anyone who values healthier options or is watching their weight—ideal for light snacking without a heavy calorie load! If you want extra creaminess, you can add mashed avocado.

• 1 dl fat-free or low-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp light cream cheese
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or sweet chili, adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Preparation:

1. Mix the Greek yogurt and cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the chili sauce, garlic powder, paprika powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the lime juice and mix once more.
4. Serve the dip with vegetables such as carrot sticks, cucumber, or celery, or even with tortilla chips.

Spicy salsa dip

This salsa dip also works perfectly as a side for grilled dishes, such as chicken or vegetable skewers!

• 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ½ fresh jalapeño, finely chopped (remove the seeds if you want it less spicy)
• ¼ dl fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or Tabasco, adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra smoothness)

Preparation:

1. Mix the diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
2. Add the chili sauce and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. If you want a smoother texture, add the olive oil and mix well.
4. Serve the salsa dip with tortilla chips, nachos, or vegetables.

Sweet chili dip

This easy sweet chili dip is fresh and sweet with just the right amount of heat, making it perfect for all kinds of snacks!

• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• ½ dl mayonnaise
• 2–3 tbsp sweet chili sauce (e.g. Thai Sweet Chili)
• 1 rkl limemehua
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ tsp salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the sour cream (or crème fraîche) and mayonnaise in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, garlic powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, vegetables, or chicken wings.

Chili dip sauce for fish

This dip also works perfectly with other seafood, such as shrimp or mussels!

• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 1 dl mayonnaise
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha or chipotle)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika powder
• ½ tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or dill, finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix the sour cream (or crème fraîche) and mayonnaise in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the chili sauce, garlic powder, paprika powder, and lemon juice, and mix until smooth.
3. Serve the dip as a sauce with fried, grilled, or steamed fish, such as salmon, cod, or trout.

Chipotle chili dip

If you want a slightly smokier flavor, add a small pinch of smoked paprika.

• 200 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 dl sour cream (or crème fraîche)
• 2 tbsp chipotle sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Preparation:

1. Mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the chipotle sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, nachos, or grilled dishes.

Spicy avocado dip

If you want to add freshness and extra kick, you can mix in finely chopped fresh jalapeños. For a vegan version, use oat-based crème fraîche instead of sour cream.

• 2 medium avocados
• ½ dl sour cream or Greek yogurt (You can make a vegan version by using plant-based alternatives)
• 1–2 tbsp chili sauce (e.g. Sriracha)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Preparation:

1. Place the ripe avocados in a bowl and mash them with a fork or an immersion blender.
2. Add the sour cream (or yogurt), chili sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice to the mashed avocados. Mix until smooth.
3. Serve the dip with tortilla chips, vegetables, or nachos.

Which chili sauce is suitable for which dip?

The flavor of dips can vary greatly depending on which chili sauce you choose as the base. Below are a few main types and examples from Soosikauppa’s selection to help you find the right sauce for each dip’s flavor profile.