Description
This Jalapeño Popper Dip with Ground Beef is a spicy, cheesy, and creamy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. It combines browned ground beef with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and spicy jalapeños, topped with a crispy buttery panko breadcrumb crust for a deliciously satisfying dip.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dip:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (or fresh jalapeños for more heat)
- 1/4 cup diced green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra spice)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Prepare the Dip Base: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped jalapeños, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and hot sauce if using. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine the Beef and Dip: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir until well combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Optional Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the dip. Add additional shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the dip to a baking dish (such as an 8×8-inch dish) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced veggies for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled for more heat.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For extra crunch, broil the topping for 1-2 minutes at the end instead of baking longer.
- Make ahead option: prepare dip base and beef mixture, assemble topping just before baking.
- Adjust hot sauce quantity to control spice level.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
