Ultimate Loaded Cheesy Taco Dip Recipe
Looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer? This Loaded Cheesy Taco Dip is everything you love about tacos, turned into a bubbling, meaty, cheesy skillet of Tex-Mex flavor! Whether you’re hosting a party, planning your game day menu, or just craving a cheesy, satisfying snack, this easy taco dip is a guaranteed winner.
Ingredients:
For the Taco Meat:
1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
2/3 cup water
For the Creamy Cheese Dip Base:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
1/2 cup salsa (choose your desired spice level)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Toppings (customize your way):
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced black olives
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/2 cup extra shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/4 cup pickled or fresh jalapeño slices
1/2 avocado, diced or sliced
Fresh cilantro (optional)
For Serving:
Tortilla chips
Crackers or sliced baguette
Bell pepper strips or celery sticks for a low-carb option
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Taco Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef until no longer pink (6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer until thickened (3–4 minutes). Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesy Base
In a bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Spread evenly into a 9×13 baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Step 3: Layer and Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread taco meat evenly over the cheese mixture and top with extra shredded cheese (optional). Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly around the edges.
Step 4: Load it Up
Top immediately with lettuce, tomatoes, olives, jalapeños, and green onions. Add avocado and fresh cilantro just before serving.
Tips & Variations
Spicy Taco Dip: Use hot salsa or cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
Vegetarian Dip: Swap ground beef for seasoned black beans or plant-based crumbles.
Cheese Lovers Tip: Try queso blanco or nacho cheese sauce for a velvety texture.
Party Food Hack: Keep the dip warm in a slow cooker set to low.
Make Ahead & Storage
Make Ahead: Assemble the meat and cheese layers ahead of time and bake just before serving.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
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