Description
Cheesy Beefy Baked Dip
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup marinara sauce (or tomato sauce)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 baguette or sliced bread, for dipping
Directions
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
Layer the Dip: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread the softened cream cheese evenly on the bottom. Add the beef and marinara mixture over the cream cheese. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm with sliced baguette or your favorite dipping bread!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
#CheesyDip #BeefyGoodness #PartyFood #ComfortSnacks #GameDayEats #EasyRecipes #DippableDelights #YummyEats
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect dip every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for easy spreading. Brown the ground beef with the onion over medium heat, breaking it into fine crumbles for the best texture. Thoroughly drain the grease to prevent a greasy dip. After adding the garlic, stir constantly for one minute to avoid burning. When simmering the beef with the marinara and seasonings, let it reduce slightly to concentrate the flavors and prevent a watery final product. For layering, press the cream cheese into an even layer in a standard 8×8 or 9-inch pie dish. Spoon the beef mixture evenly on top, then sprinkle the combined cheeses to cover completely. Bake on the middle rack until the edges are actively bubbling and the top has golden spots.
Serving Suggestions
While a fresh baguette is classic, this dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Offer sturdy tortilla chips, crispy breadsticks, or pretzel bites. For a lighter option, serve with bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds, or carrot sticks. This dip also makes an excellent topping for baked potatoes or a filling for stuffed peppers. For a party, keep it warm in a small slow cooker on the “low” setting.
How-to Summary
In summary: Brown beef with onion and garlic, drain. Mix in marinara and seasonings. In a baking dish, layer softened cream cheese, the beef mixture, and shredded cheeses. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve warm with bread or other dippers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dip completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce? Tomato sauce, pizza sauce, or a can of diced tomatoes (drained) mixed with 1 tsp of oregano and basil work well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or a plant-based meat crumble are excellent substitutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
My dip seems oily. How can I fix this? This is usually from insufficient draining of the cooked beef. For next time, drain the beef thoroughly or even blot it with paper towels. You can also try using a leaner ground beef.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which makes it impossible to spread smoothly.
- Not draining the cooked beef, resulting in a greasy dip.
- Overcrowding the baking dish, which leads to uneven cooking. Use the recommended size.
- Overbaking, which can cause the cheeses to separate and become oily. Remove as soon as it’s bubbly and golden.
- Serving straight from the oven; letting it cool for 5 minutes allows it to set slightly for easier dipping.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beefy Baked Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory ground beef, rich cheeses, and tangy marinara in one irresistible dish. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy hosts, while its robust flavor guarantees empty plates. Whether for game day, a party, or a comforting snack, this reliable recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delicious, dippable results!