5-Ingredient Football Dip A quick and mouthwatering dip that’s a hit for game day, parties, or any casual gathering. With only five ingredients, it layers creamy, spicy, and savory flavors for an irresistible snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s incredibly easy to make with just five simple ingredients.
Perfect for feeding a crowd, especially during football season or parties.
Versatile and customizable to your spice preference with mild, medium, or hot salsa.
Ready in just 35 minutes, making it a go-to for last-minute gatherings.
A warm, cheesy, and satisfying appetizer that pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
8 oz cream cheese, softened
8 oz jar salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring the beef is evenly coated.
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the bottom of a pie dish or similar baking dish.
Layer the salsa evenly over the cream cheese.
Add the seasoned ground beef as the next layer.
Top with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the layers for extra heat.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
Protein Alternatives: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Cheese Options: Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Toppings: Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream after baking.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals.
Related Recipes:
- Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip
- 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Energy Bites
- Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip with Toffee Bits
FAQs
How can I make this dip ahead of time?
Assemble the layers in the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this dip?
I don’t recommend freezing because the cream cheese layer can separate and change texture upon thawing.
What are the best dippers for this recipe?
Tortilla chips, crackers, sliced baguette, and raw veggies like celery and carrot sticks work wonderfully.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning is a great way to control the spice level and avoid preservatives.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free taco seasoning and salsa, this dip is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
The 5-Ingredient Football Dip is a simple yet crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for game day or any social gathering. Its layers of creamy, zesty, and cheesy goodness make it irresistible and highly customizable. Grab your favorite dippers and watch this dish disappear in no time.
📖 Recipe:
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5-Ingredient Football Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and irresistible 5-Ingredient Football Dip, perfect for game day or parties! Loaded with ground beef, cream cheese, salsa, and melted cheddar, this warm, cheesy dip is ready in just 35 minutes and sure to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
8 oz cream cheese, softened
8 oz jar salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir taco seasoning into the beef until evenly coated.
- Spread softened cream cheese evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer salsa over the cream cheese.
- Add the seasoned ground beef as the next layer.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.
Notes
Variations: Add jalapeños, black beans, or swap in your favorite cheese blend for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble ahead, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and bake fresh when needed.
Serving Ideas: Perfect with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 276 kcal
