A rich and creamy nacho cheese sauce paired with seasoned ground beef and tomatoes, perfect for pouring over crispy tortilla chips or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef Nacho Cheese Dip is a hearty, crowd-pleasing snack that combines savory, spiced ground beef with a smooth, cheesy sauce. The addition of fresh tomatoes adds brightness and texture, making it an irresistible dip for tortilla chips or a topping for loaded nachos. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s ideal for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 (10 oz) can cheddar cheese soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Tortilla chips (for serving)
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir over medium heat until smooth and heated through. Add diced tomatoes and mix well.
Combine and Heat Through
Add the seasoned ground beef to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully combined and creamy. Cook over low heat for 3–4 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve
Pour the dip over tortilla chips or serve in a bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use shredded cheese and cream cheese instead of cheddar soup for a homemade sauce.
- Top with chopped green onions, olives, or avocado for extra flavor.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Serve with warm soft pretzels or fresh vegetable sticks instead of chips.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare in advance and reheat before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have cheddar cheese soup?
Make a quick cheese sauce with shredded cheddar, milk, and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Check taco seasoning and cheese soup labels; most are gluten-free but confirm to be certain.
Can I freeze the dip?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may separate.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Omit beef and use beans or seasoned vegetables instead.
How spicy is the dip?
The spice level depends on the taco seasoning used; adjust according to preference.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, just dice fresh tomatoes and add as instructed.
What’s the best tortilla chip to serve with this dip?
Thick, sturdy chips hold the dip better, such as restaurant-style or kettle-cooked chips.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, sour cream, guacamole, or shredded lettuce work well.
How do I make the dip thicker?
Reduce the amount of milk or simmer the dip longer to thicken.
Conclusion
Beef Nacho Cheese Dip is a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that combines flavorful seasoned beef with creamy cheese sauce and fresh tomatoes. Perfect for game day, parties, or casual snacking, this dip is sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Beef Nacho Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy nacho cheese sauce paired with seasoned ground beef and tomatoes, perfect for pouring over crispy tortilla chips or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 (10 oz) can of cheddar cheese soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water; simmer 5 minutes until thickened.
- In a saucepan, combine cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and milk; stir over medium heat until smooth and heated through.
- Add diced tomatoes to cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Add seasoned beef to cheese sauce; stir until creamy and combined.
- Cook over low heat for 3-4 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve warm over tortilla chips or as a dip; garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired dip consistency.
- Use fresh diced tomatoes for added freshness or canned for convenience.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
- Can be kept warm in a slow cooker for parties or game day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing and simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 3 g
- Sodium: Approx. 700 mg
- Fat: Approx. 25 g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 8 g
- Fiber: Approx. 1 g
- Protein: Approx. 20 g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 80 mg
