Taco Skillet Dip Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (such as RoTel)
• 1 cup grated sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated white Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C).

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 7 minutes, until browned and crumbly.

Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 4: Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and the entire can of diced tomatoes and green chiles (undrained). Mix everything well.

Step 5: Reserve 1/4 cup of each cheese sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and white Cheddar and set aside. Stir the remaining cheese into the beef mixture until it melts and combines.

Step 6: Create a space in the center of the skillet and place the brick of cream cheese in the middle. Add dollops of sour cream around the cream cheese.

Step 7: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Remove the skillet from the oven and stir the cream cheese and sour cream into the beef mixture until smooth and well combined.

Step 9: Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top of the beef mixture. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is browned and the edges are bubbling.

Step 10: Allow the dip to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with chips or your favorite dipping snacks.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	412
Total Fat	33g
Saturated Fat	17g
Cholesterol	113mg
Sodium	592mg
Total Carbohydrate	5g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	24g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	354mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	310mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This Taco Skillet Dip combines all the bold flavors of tacos into a warm, cheesy dip that's perfect for parties, family gatherings, or game day snacks. Its easy to make and packs a punch of flavor with every bite. The creamy texture from the cheese and sour cream contrasts beautifully with the spiced beef, making it a favorite appetizer for any occasion. Here's everything you need to know about this mouthwatering dip!

History of Taco Skillet Dip

The Taco Skillet Dip is a relatively modern twist on traditional Mexican flavors, drawing inspiration from classic tacos. While tacos have deep historical roots in Mexican cuisine, dating back to ancient times, this skillet dip emerged as a popular American appetizer. Over the years, it has become a beloved party food, especially in the U.S., where it's frequently served as a warm dip for tortilla chips. The dip embodies the convenience of quick-to-make Tex-Mex dishes while maintaining the core elements of Mexican flavor, such as taco seasoning, beef, cheese, and tomatoes.

Regional Variations

Though taco-inspired dishes are commonly found throughout the United States and Mexico, regional variations exist. In southern states like Texas and Arizona, you may find a spicier version with jalapeos or chili peppers added to the mix. In contrast, California versions may use a variety of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack and Cotija, to enhance the flavor profile. Some recipes also incorporate refried beans or guacamole for an extra layer of richness.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

The Taco Skillet Dip stands out from other dips like seven-layer dip or queso dip due to its use of ground beef and the inclusion of cream cheese and sour cream. Unlike queso dip, which primarily focuses on cheese, the Taco Skillet Dip is more of a hearty, meat-based appetizer. Its robust taco seasoning and meat mixture give it a more complex and savory flavor, making it a filling choice for those looking for something more substantial.

Where Its Usually Served

Taco Skillet Dip is typically served at casual gatherings, such as tailgates, barbecues, or family movie nights. Its a common appetizer for potlucks, as it can easily be made in large batches and kept warm in a skillet. Due to its rich and indulgent nature, it's also a popular choice at Tex-Mex restaurants, often offered as a shared appetizer. Whether served alongside crispy tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Interesting Facts

• The dish is a hybrid of Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, blending the flavors of tacos with the convenience of a dip.
• Many versions of this dip call for multiple cheeses to create a rich, gooey texture thats irresistible to cheese lovers.
• Adding cayenne pepper or jalapeos can elevate the heat level, making it perfect for those who enjoy spicy food.
• Its often served in a cast-iron skillet, which retains heat and gives the dip a crispy, bubbly top layer.
• This dip is also a versatile recipevegetarians can easily substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.

FAQ about Taco Skillet Dip Recipe

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