Description
This flavorful Taco Salad Dip combines seasoned ground beef with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and salsa, layered with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh vegetables. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or party snack, it offers a delicious combination of textures and tastes served with crunchy taco chips.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb lean ground beef (7% fat)
- 1 package Taco Seasoning Mix (Original Taco by McCormick)
- 1/4 cup water
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 8oz package cream cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese (any size curd)
- 2 cups (8 oz) finely shredded medium cheddar cheese
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 cup salsa (roasted or any preferred type)
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 cups finely chopped tomatoes
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
Serving
- Taco chips or any firm tortillas
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef without adding any oil. Cook until no longer pink, then drain off excess liquid if any remains using paper towels.
- Season the Beef: Mix the taco seasoning packet with 1/4 cup water. Stir this mixture into the cooked beef until evenly combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Blend the Creamy Layer: In a food processor bowl, combine 1 cup cottage cheese, the entire 8oz package of cream cheese, and 1 cup salsa. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Dip: Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass baking dish or individual ramekins. Layer the blended cream cheese mixture evenly over the beef layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the finely shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado if using, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Store and Serve: If not serving immediately, lightly squeeze lime juice over avocado pieces to prevent browning, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Serve chilled or at room temperature with taco chips or firm tortillas.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (7% fat) to reduce excess grease and calories.
- To keep avocado from browning, coat with fresh lime juice before adding to the dip.
- You can substitute any favorite salsa variant according to your spice preference.
- For a spicier dip, add jalapenos or hot sauce to the creamy blend.
- This dip is great for parties and can be made ahead of time and refrigerated.
- Serve with various types of chips, such as tortilla chips, pita chips, or veggie chips for variety.
