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Skillet Nacho Dip Recipe: Perfect for Parties

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Homemade Scrumptious Skillet Nacho Dip Recipe

Are you ready to make a crowd-pleasing, gooey, and delicious dish? This skillet nacho dip is the perfect option for a fun dinner or a tasty snack at your next gathering. It’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

To get started, you’ll need a few ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. You’ll be combining melted cheese, tender beef, and spicy jalapeños in a cast-iron skillet to create a warm, tasty dip that everyone will love. The best part? It’s super quick to make!

Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced cook. This recipe is simple and straightforward, so even beginners can achieve great results. Plus, who doesn’t love a cheesy, hearty dip that’s perfect with a side of tortilla chips?

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

For a delicious skillet nacho dip, you’ll need the following ingredients:


  • 2 ounces cream cheese: Softened. If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use a mix of sour cream and ricotta.



  • 1 1/2 teaspoons taco seasoning: Store-bought or homemade. You can also use chili powder as a substitute for a simpler flavor.



  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a nice herbal note. Basil or thyme can work if you’re out of oregano.



  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Adjust to taste. Any sea salt or table salt can be used instead.



  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese: Divided. You can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of both if you don’t have the blend.



  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans: Drained and rinsed. Pinto beans can be a good alternative.



  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes: Drained. Fresh tomatoes can be used if you prefer a fresher taste.



  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn: Drained. Frozen corn (1 1/2 cups) can also be used.


These ingredients come together to create a warm, cheesy dip that’s perfect for any gathering! Feel free to tweak as needed based on what you have in your pantry.

Instructions


  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).



  2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.



  3. Saute Vegetables: Add diced onion and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook, stirring often, for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.



  4. Season the Mix: Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, coriander, paprika, oregano, and onion powder. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to release the flavors.



  5. Add Cheeses: To the beef mixture, add cubed Velveeta cheese and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.



  6. Mix in Others: Add black beans, drained pinto beans, Rotel tomatoes, green chilies, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.



  7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, covered, until all flavors blend well.



  8. Top with Cheese: Transfer mixture to a broiler-safe dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.



  9. Bake and Broil: Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted. Turn the broiler to high and broil for 1-2 minutes until cheese is browned and bubbly.



  10. Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot with tortilla chips. Enjoy!


Tips, Tricks & Storing

Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality cheese enhance the flavor.
  2. Even Layer: Spread the dip in an even layer for consistent cooking.
  3. Cheese Types: Mix different cheeses for a richer taste.

Tricks

  1. Broil for Extra Crisp: After baking, broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese.
  2. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños or chili powder to control the heat.
  3. Prep Ahead: You can make the meat mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it.

Storing

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: Freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  3. Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm, or use the microwave for quicker heating.

With these tips and tricks, your skillet nacho dip will be delicious and easy to prepare!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

You can customize your skillet nacho dip in many ways to suit your taste. Below are some simple ideas for variations and serving suggestions.

Vegetarian Option:

  • Replace the meat with cooked black beans or a mix of beans and corn.
  • Add diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.

Spicy Twist:

  • Add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dip.
  • Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes before baking.

Toppings:

  • Fresh Ingredients: Top with diced tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro after baking.
  • Cheese: Mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Queso Fresco.

Serving Suggestions:

  • With Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
  • With Veggies: Use celery sticks, carrot sticks, or cucumber slices for a lighter option.
  • As a Taco Filling: Spoon the dip into taco shells and add your favorite toppings like lettuce and guacamole.

Fun Idea:

  • Party Platter: Arrange the dip in the center of a large platter surrounded by chips, veggies, and small bowls of sour cream and salsa. This makes a great centerpiece for gatherings.