Shelly's Recipe

CHEESE DIP ITALIANO

Category: Dips - Hot

2 pkg Italian sausage
2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes, drained
2 tsp minced garlic
3 tbsp dry basil
2 tsp dried oregano
2 lbs process cheese spread, cut up
1 cup ricotta cheese
toasted baguette slices
4 tsp crushed red pepper, optional)
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped

In a large saucepan or stockpot, cook sausage over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until thoroughly cooked and no longer pink. Stir in canned tomatoes, garlic, basil and oregano; add crushed red pepper if desired. Cover and cook 2 minutes. Stir in cheese spread and ricotta, reduce heat to medium and cook uncovered until melted, stirring frequently. Stir in fresh tomatoes if desired. Serve hot with toasted baguette slices.