Queso Dip with Ground Beef (Printable Version)

Savory, creamy blend of ground beef, cheese, and peppers perfect for any gathering.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1/2 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 small onion, finely diced
03 - 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy

07 - 12 oz processed cheese, cubed
08 - 1 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 cup sour cream

→ Canned & Pantry

10 - 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
11 - 1 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 tsp chili powder
14 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

15 - Chopped cilantro
16 - Sliced green onions
17 - Diced tomatoes

# Directions:

01 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add the onion, bell peppers, jalapeño (if using), and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
03 - Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Lower the heat and add the cubed processed cheese and milk. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
05 - Mix in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and sour cream. Stir until well combined and heated through.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
07 - Transfer to a serving bowl or a small slow cooker set to warm. Garnish as desired and serve hot with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The combination of savory ground beef and creamy cheese creates that perfect party dip moment everyone gathers around
  • It comes together in about 35 minutes but tastes like it simmered all afternoon
02 -
  • Never add the cheese over high heat or it will separate into this oily grainy mess that nobody wants to dip into
  • If your dip gets too thick while sitting out, stir in warm milk one tablespoon at a time until it's smooth again
03 -
  • Cube your cheese before you start cooking so it melts evenly and quickly when you add it to the hot mixture
  • If you want to stretch this recipe for a crowd, add a can of black beans with the tomatoes

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