Ground Beef Queso Dip (Football Dip)

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When game day rolls around, the excitement in the air is electric. Friends gather, jerseys are worn, and the snacks are just as important as the plays on the field.

One dip that never fails to bring smiles and satisfied bellies is football dip.

This creamy, cheesy delight is a hit at any gathering, transforming ordinary chips and veggies into a flavor-packed experience.

Whether you’re huddled around the TV or enjoying a backyard barbecue, this dip is sure to be the star of the spread.

Let’s jump right into how to make this irresistible treat that will have everyone cheering for more!

Table of Contents

Ground Beef Queso Dip Recipe

Ingredients

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (or hatch chile cheese, if you prefer)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 pound halal ground beef
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juices)
13 oz evaporated milk
2-3 tablespoons milk (2% or whole; keep extra for leftovers)

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and cornstarch. Toss them together until the cheese is well coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and spread it out evenly. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes until the bottom is browned and crusty. Flip the beef and continue cooking until it’s browned all over, which should take about 7-8 minutes in total. If there’s a lot of grease, drain it or carefully blot it with a paper towel. Once drained, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and mix well.
Next, stir in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Then pour in the evaporated milk and add the cheese mixture. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the cheese is melted and the dip is creamy.
If the dip is too thick for your liking, add a few tablespoons of regular milk to reach your desired consistency. Remember, the dip will thicken as it cools, so it’s okay to keep it a little on the thinner side.
Serve your warm queso dip with tortilla chips, and enjoy!

Substitutions For Ground Beef Queso Dip

Sometimes, you might want to mix things up! Here are some fun substitutions you can try for your Ground Beef Queso Dip:

Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. They have a milder flavor but still give you that meaty texture.
Plant-Based Meat: If you want a meat-free version, consider using a plant-based ground meat alternative, like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger. These taste great and keep the dish hearty.
Black Beans or Refried Beans: To make it vegetarian or add some fiber, replace the ground beef with black beans or refried beans. They’ll give you that creamy texture and a delicious flavor.
Chorizo: For a spicy kick, try using chorizo instead of ground beef. Just remember to check that it’s halal if you need that option!

How To Store And Reheat Ground Beef Queso Dip?

If you have leftovers (if there are any!), you can easily store and reheat your queso dip to enjoy later. Here’s how:

Storage: Allow the dip to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for about 2-3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top, as it might expand a bit.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat your queso dip on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed through. If it seems too thick, add a splash of milk to get it creamy again!

Making Ground Beef Queso Dip Vegan, Vegetarian, And Gluten-Free

Adapting your Ground Beef Queso Dip for different diets is simple! Here’s how you can make it vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free:

Vegan
- Use a plant-based ground meat alternative instead of ground beef.
- Substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese (like Daiya or Violife).
- Replace evaporated milk with coconut milk or any plant-based milk.
Vegetarian
- Use black beans or refried beans instead of ground beef.
- Stick with regular cheese or opt for vegetarian cheese options.
Gluten-Free
- Ensure that the taco seasoning you use is gluten-free (most are, but it’s always good to check).
- All the other ingredients are typically gluten-free, but serve with gluten-free chips or veggies for dipping.

Delicious Dipping Options For Queso Dip With Ground Beef

Pair your tasty ground beef queso dip with these fun dippers for a fantastic snack:

Tortilla Chips: The classic choice! They’re crunchy and perfect for scooping.
Fresh Vegetables: Try carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips for a healthy twist.
Pita Chips: These are great for a little extra flavor and crunch.
Soft Pretzels: For a fun alternative, pretzels add a nice salty flavor that pairs well with the dip.
Crackers: Choose your favorite type, but make sure they’re compatible with your dietary needs.

These ideas will make your Ground Beef Queso Dip even more enjoyable and cater to everyone’s tastes!

Tips For Thickening Ground Beef Queso Dip

If your queso dip isn’t as thick as you’d like, don’t worry! There are simple ways to make it creamier. Here are some helpful tips to thicken your dip:

Add Cheese: The easiest way to thicken your queso is to add more shredded cheese. Cheddar or pepper jack work well. Just stir in a little at a time while the dip is warm until you reach the desired thickness.
Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the warm queso dip and let it cook for a few more minutes. This will help thicken it up.
Cream Cheese: Adding a few ounces of cream cheese can give your dip a nice, thick texture. Just let it melt into the dip as you stir.
Reduce Liquid: If you find that your dip is too runny, try cooking it longer over low heat to allow some of the moisture to evaporate. Just make sure to stir it often to prevent sticking.
Beans or Mashed Potatoes: For a unique twist, blend in some refried beans or mashed potatoes. They’ll add creaminess and a nice flavor.

Why Is Your Ground Beef Queso Dip Runny?

Sometimes, queso dip can end up runny, which might not be what you want. Here are a few common reasons this happens:

Too Much Liquid: If you added too much evaporated milk or salsa, it can make the dip thinner. Stick to the amounts in the recipe for best results.
Low-Quality Cheese: Some cheeses don’t melt well and can result in a watery dip. Using good-quality cheddar or pepper jack helps maintain a thicker texture.
Not Enough Cheese: If there isn’t enough cheese in the mix, the dip won’t have that rich, thick consistency. Make sure to include the right amount!
Cooking Temperature: Cooking the dip at too high a temperature can cause it to separate, making it runny. It’s best to cook it on low heat and stir frequently.
Overcooking: If the dip is cooked for too long, it can break down and lose its thickness. Monitor the cooking time to keep the texture just right.