Name: 5-Ingredient Football Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1 (8 oz) jar salsa (mild, medium, or hot); 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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Introduction

This 5-Ingredient Football Dip is a quick and delicious crowd-pleaser perfect for game day or any casual gathering. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa, it’s ready in just 35 minutes and sure to be a favorite appetizer.

A white round dish filled with a three-layer dip; the bottom layer is bright red salsa, the middle layer is creamy white cheese, and the top layer is a thick layer of browned cooked ground beef mixed with melted yellow cheddar cheese, covering it unevenly. A woman's hand is holding a beige chip dipped in the mixture, showing the layered dip on top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with more chips stacked in the background and a red and white checkered cloth partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 tbsp taco seasoning

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 (8 oz) jar salsa (mild, medium, or hot)

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning.

Step 2: Layer the dip in a pie dish by spreading the softened cream cheese evenly on the bottom. Pour the salsa over the cream cheese, then spoon the seasoned beef on top. Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat.
Step 3: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped jalapeños or olives to the salsa layer.

Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for a richer taste.
Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
If you prefer a spicier dip, choose a hot salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How to Serve

A white dish filled with a layered hot dip shows melted yellow cheese and browned ground beef on top, with bits of diced tomatoes visible underneath. The dip looks creamy and thick with a rich mix of textures, some oily spots shining on the surface. A woman's hand is holding a triangular corn chip dipped in the mixture, close to the camera, covered with the same cheesy beef topping. The background features a white marbled texture and a red and white checkered cloth is partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip a few hours before baking. Keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just cook them thoroughly before layering.