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Cheesy Beef and Cheddar Dip

A warm, creamy dip loaded with beef and cheddar, perfect for game day gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dip
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey (substitute plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option) Choose 85/15 for juicy results.
  • 12 oz cream cheese, softened Swap for Greek yogurt in lighter versions.
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar Or a blend of monterey jack and cheddar.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes and green chiles 10 oz, mild or hot, depending on your crowd.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped Red onion for a sweeter note.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Roasted garlic adds depth.
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder Toast spices briefly for extra aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Toast spices briefly for extra aroma.
  • 1 package soft pretzel bites or sturdy slider buns For serving.
  • to taste optional toppings: sliced green onions, cilantro, pickled jalapenos, avocado slices
For Dessert
  • 2 cups mini chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped toasted pecans For a warm skillet brownie.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch skillet or baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
  4. Add ground beef or turkey. Break it up with a wooden spoon and brown until no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle chili powder and cumin, stirring so the spices bloom and coat the meat. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the can of diced tomatoes and green chiles. Simmer for 3 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat.
Mixing and Baking
  1. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar until creamy.
  2. Fold in half of the meat mixture and spread into your prepared skillet.
  3. Top with remaining meat and sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly.
  4. Bake for 12–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. Remove from oven and garnish with green onions, cilantro, pickled jalapenos, or avocado.
  6. Serve with pretzel bites or slider buns for dipping.

Notes

Swap spinach with kale for a stronger green in any layered dip; use smoked paprika for a subtle campfire flavor.