A hot, creamy, cheesy taco dip made with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, salsa, and plenty of melted cheese. Perfect with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning, about 2 tbsp
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (10 oz / 280 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup refried beans, optional
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the beef:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking the beef into small pieces, until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Season:
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the beef is well coated and most of the liquid has evaporated.
3. Add tomatoes:
Stir the salsa and drained diced tomatoes into the beef mixture. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat.
4. Make the creamy layer:
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. If using refried beans, spread them over the bottom of a lightly greased baking dish.
5. Assemble:
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the beans. Spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the top.
6. Add cheese:
Combine the cheddar and Monterey Jack, then sprinkle generously over the beef. Add a little smoked paprika if desired.
7. Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling, and golden around the edges.
For an extra browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
Serving
Let the dip rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with tortilla chips.
You can also top it with diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, avocado, or extra sour cream.
Nutrition
Approximately 350–400 calories per serving, depending on the cheese, meat, and serving size. It is rich in protein and calcium but also fairly high in fat and sodium, so tortilla chips and toppings will increase the total.
Storage
Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave individual portions.