Description
This 7-Layer Taco Dip is a classic and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a flavorful base of taco seasoned cream cheese layered with seasoned ground beef and a variety of fresh taco toppings. Perfect for parties or game days, it pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips and offers a delicious burst of Tex-Mex flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 preferred)
- 7 tablespoons taco seasoning, divided
- 8 ounces whipped cream cheese
- 1 cup iceberg or romaine lettuce, sliced very thin
- 1 cup cheddar jack cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomato halves
- 1 medium avocado, diced small
- 2 to 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 to 2 bags tortilla chips, for serving
Optional Additional Toppings
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 2 tablespoons red onions, finely diced
- 1 to 2 jalapeños, sliced
- 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
- 1/3 cup sweet bell peppers, finely diced
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles and cook until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain and discard any fat accumulated in the pan.
- Season the Beef: Add 4 tablespoons of taco seasoning to the cooked beef and stir well to combine. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a small bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese with the remaining 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning. Mix thoroughly until evenly seasoned.
- Assemble the Dip Base: Spread the taco seasoned cream cheese evenly on the bottom of a serving platter or dish to create the first layer.
- Add the Meat Layer: Add the cooled seasoned ground beef over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Layer the Vegetables and Cheese: Following the order you prefer (recommended order: lettuce, shredded cheddar jack cheese, cherry tomato halves, black olives if using, diced avocado, jalapeños if using, sliced green onions, red onions if using, and minced cilantro), layer these ingredients evenly atop the beef layer.
- Serve: Once assembled, serve immediately with tortilla chips on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use high-quality taco seasoning or make your own for best flavor.
- Drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef to keep the dip from becoming soggy.
- You can adjust the spiciness by adding or omitting jalapeños.
- The dip can be assembled in advance; cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Feel free to add other favorite taco toppings like sweet corn or pickled jalapeños to customize.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
