Cheesy Ground Beef Dip

This Cheesy Ground Beef Dip is an easy and incredibly flavorful dish that will wow your guests. Made with lean ground beef, diced jalapeños, garlic, onions, and a rich blend of spices, it’s topped with melted cheddar cheese for a perfect dip. It’s ideal for game day, parties, or any festive occasion!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds extra-lean ground beef
  • 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup strained tomatoes (or diced tomatoes)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

Directions

  1. In a large braiser pan, place ground beef, jalapeño, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook over medium-high heat. Stir regularly until the beef is crumbly and browned, around 15 minutes.
  2. Add chicken broth, cornstarch (if using), strained tomato, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to the pan. Stir well, bring to a simmer, then lower the heat to medium. Cook for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
  3. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Lightly stir it into the dip, then top with the remaining cheese.
  4. Place the pan under the broiler for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and browned.
  5. Sprinkle with red chili flakes and chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature!

Nutrients

  • Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbs: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g

The Secret to the Flavorful Base: Ground Beef and Spices

The heart of this dip lies in the lean ground beef. The ground beef is not only a great source of protein, but it also provides a savory richness that forms the foundation of this dish. Cooking the beef with onions and garlic ensures that these ingredients develop a deep, savory flavor that infuses the entire dish. To elevate the flavor further, diced jalapeños add a subtle heat, while cayenne pepper gives the dip that extra kick.

This combination of beef and spices creates a deeply flavorful base for the dip. The seasoning blend of kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper strikes the perfect balance between savory and spicy, ensuring that every bite is packed with zest.

The Creamy, Cheesy Finish: Cheddar Cheese

The next layer of flavor comes from the cheddar cheese, which brings a creamy, smooth texture that binds all the ingredients together. Shredded Cheddar cheese is added in two stages: the first portion is stirred into the dip, allowing it to melt and add a luscious creaminess, while the second portion is sprinkled on top before broiling. The result is a golden, bubbly layer of cheese that adds both flavor and a delightful texture to the dip.

Cheddar cheese has a natural tanginess that complements the richness of the ground beef, making it the perfect cheese to pair with this savory dish. The cheese creates a gooey and indulgent topping that is guaranteed to be a hit with your guests.

Why This Dip Is Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a game night, preparing for a family gathering, or celebrating a holiday, this Cheesy Ground Beef Dip is an ideal dish. Its bold flavors and cheesy goodness are sure to satisfy any crowd. The versatility of this dip makes it suitable for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to more festive affairs. It can easily be prepared ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature, making it a convenient choice for busy hosts.

Spice Level: Adjust to Your Preference

One of the best features of this dip is its customizable spice level. If you love heat, the diced jalapeños and cayenne pepper will give you that perfect spicy kick. However, if you prefer a milder dip, you can adjust the amount of jalapeños or cayenne pepper to your liking. The Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add depth and complexity without overpowering the flavors, making the dip deliciously balanced.

For those who aren’t fond of spicy foods, you can omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount of jalapeños for a more subtle heat. This makes the Cheesy Ground Beef Dip an excellent choice for all tastes.

How to Serve Your Cheesy Ground Beef Dip

This dip is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. It pairs beautifully with crispy tortilla chips, but you can also serve it with an array of other dippable options. Try it with sliced vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a lighter, healthier alternative. You can also serve it with crackers, pita chips, or even soft, warm bread for a hearty snack.

For a unique twist, use it as a topping for baked potatoes or as a filling for wraps. It’s also great on its own as a hearty appetizer or snack to enjoy while watching your favorite team play. The gooey, cheesy texture makes it an irresistible choice that everyone will reach for.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing and reheating them is easy. Simply place the leftover dip in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat the dip in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to maintain its creamy consistency.

For an extra touch, you can broil the top with a bit of extra cheese to get that golden, bubbly layer back. It’s the perfect way to refresh your dip and make it just as delicious as when it was first made.

Nutritional Information: Enjoy in Moderation

This Cheesy Ground Beef Dip is not only delicious, but it’s also relatively nutritious. Each serving provides approximately 350 calories, with 28 grams of protein and 25 grams of fat, making it a satisfying snack that can keep you full for hours. It also contains 6 grams of carbs and 2 grams of fiber, offering a balanced mix of macronutrients.

However, as with any rich and indulgent dip, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie intake. Pairing it with fresh veggies or lighter dippables can help keep things on the healthier side while still indulging in this delicious treat.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser

The Cheesy Ground Beef Dip is the ultimate game-day snack, party appetizer, or casual treat for any occasion. With its combination of lean ground beef, spicy jalapeños, savory onions, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a dish that delivers on both flavor and comfort. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening, this dip is sure to satisfy.

Its rich, creamy texture, customizable spice level, and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe that everyone will love. So next time you’re in need of a crowd-pleasing snack, this Cheesy Ground Beef Dip is the way to go.

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