Houstonist Cooks: Ball & Chain Dip

Houstonist knows that, although there are some very awesome places to watch the Superbowl (which we'll be sharing with you soon), some of us are commited to attending "Cousin Cooter's Annual Superbowl Party and Kegger," because we would be excommunicated from our family if we weren't parked firmly on his sofa/braided floor rug, with a plastic cup of foam and a paper plate full of comestibles. So, to make that event more bearable (assuming you know the "drink until those around you appear smart rule" which may only be used in conjunction with a designated driver, don't be a dumbass), you need to bring some good eats. Cheese is always a winner (we book it as a food group all by itself - even if it's the spray cheese in a can, which does not require the use of a cracker - low carb!!!)

We were given this recipe by a dear friend, who had a coworker that would bring it to parties and office potlucks, under the guise of "I'll have the ole ball and chain make something," hence the name. This dip is a great version of "standard queso" and can be modified all over the place, depending on your individual likes and dislikes. This recipe is also not "exact," since you may like lots of goodies, or not so much goodies and the cheese quantity needs to increase/decrease in proportion to the goodies quantity. So, here you go:

Ball and Chain Dip

1-2 1lb boxes of Velveeta, or other pastuerized cheese-food product, diced
1 lb bulk/pan sausage browned and crumbled (we use sage, or hot - do not use maple, ever!)
1 box of frozen spinach, thawed and drained very well
1 small can of sliced black olives
I can of sliced mushrooms, drained or 1 lb of fresh sliced mushrooms
1 box of frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and drained very well
1 can of corn (regular or shoe peg, not cream-style)
1 - 2 cans of diced tomatoes with green chilis - one per box of cheese
I can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 can green chilis (or one fresh jalapeno, seeded and finely minced)

3 hours prior to toting this to the party, put all of your desired elements of the onese listed above (the only absolutely necessary ones are the cheese and tomatoes, but, we suggest spinach, sausage, olives, broccoli, artichokes, mushrooms and some extra heat with that jalepeno). Turn on high until all melted. Serve with your favorite tortilla or corn chips. Thin with a splash of milk, as needed, during the day.

Shortcut: Pour tomatoes into a microwave safe measuring cup and microwave for 1-2 minutes, until almost boiling hot (be careful, as liquids can explode, sometimes). Pour over diced cheese and stir until melted (in said crock pot), add goodies and keep warm.