Delicious Layered Taco Dip
A quick and easy layered taco dip perfect for parties, potlucks, and casual gatherings. This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dip combines seasoned ground beef with fresh toppings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/2 cup diced onions, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Optional extras: diced jalapeños, avocado slices or guacamole, refried beans
Instructions
- Prepare the beef layer: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onions, cooking until beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute. Season with salt, pepper, and half the taco seasoning mix. Drain excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the base layer: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Add the remaining taco seasoning and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the dip: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch dish. Layer the cooked ground beef mixture over the base. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and fresh cilantro.
- Chill before serving: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and the dip firm up.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the dip sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with sturdy tortilla chips or fresh veggie sticks.
Notes
[‘Soften cream cheese at room temperature or microwave briefly for easier mixing.’, ‘Drain excess fat from cooked beef to avoid greasiness.’, ‘Taste and adjust seasoning of beef before layering.’, ‘Use an offset spatula or back of a spoon for even layering.’, ‘Chill dip for at least 1 hour to firm up and meld flavors.’, ‘Dip holds well in fridge for 2-3 days; freshen with green onions before serving again.’, ‘For vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils.’, ‘For dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.’, ‘Avoid microwaving leftovers to prevent cheese melting oddly.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/12th
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 15
Keywords: layered taco dip, party appetizer, easy dip recipe, taco dip, crowd-pleaser, creamy dip, ground beef dip