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Cheesy Taco-Inspired Beef Queso Dip

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This crowd-pleasing dip combines melty cheese, taco-seasoned beef, and a hint of smoky spice for the ultimate party snack. Creamy, hearty, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor, it’s perfect for game nights, potlucks, or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack for extra kick)
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños, diced (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Diced avocado (optional, for topping)
  • Sour cream (optional, for topping)
  • Extra fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Crumbled tortilla chips (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: Dice onion, mince garlic, shred cheeses, drain Rotel tomatoes, and chop cilantro and jalapeños if using.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add ground beef and break apart with a spoon. Cook until beef starts to brown (about 4 minutes), then add onion and garlic.
  3. Sprinkle taco seasoning over beef and onion, stirring to coat. Cook until beef is no longer pink and onions soften (about 4 more minutes). Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a medium saucepan, add evaporated milk and cream cheese. Heat over medium, whisking until cream cheese melts (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Lower heat and add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until smooth and melty (about 3-4 minutes).
  6. Add drained Rotel tomatoes, diced jalapeños, and half the cilantro. Stir well. If queso seems thick, add a splash of milk to loosen.
  7. Stir the seasoned beef mixture into the queso base until evenly combined. Let everything simmer together for 2 minutes so flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  8. Pour dip into a serving dish. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro and any desired toppings (avocado, sour cream, extra cheese, crushed chips).
  9. Serve hot with tortilla chips, veggies, or warm flour tortillas.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms. Adjust spice level by using mild or hot Rotel and jalapeños. Keep dip warm in a slow cooker for parties. If dip thickens, add a splash of milk and stir. Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso dip, beef queso, taco dip, party snack, Tex-Mex appetizer, cheese dip, game day, easy dip, crowd-pleaser, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/cheesy-taco-inspired-beef-queso-dip-recipe-easy-party-snack/