introduction
This Empanada Dip is warm, cheesy, and full of beef and spices. It tastes like the filling of an empanada in a dip form. If you like warm, cheesy dips like buffalo chicken dip, you will enjoy this easy snack.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe for a quick party snack or a simple family appetizer. It cooks fast, uses common ingredients, and people like hot, cheesy dips that are easy to share.
how to make Empanada Dip
Follow clear steps and you will have a hot, melty dip in under an hour. This is a mix of cooked seasoned beef and creamy cheese, similar in comfort to another popular party dip, but with empanada-style flavor.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium sweet yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or fresh veggies (for dipping)
Directions :
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until crumbly.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in taco seasoning and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release flavors.
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream; mix until smooth.
- Fold in the meat mixture and half of the shredded cheeses until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer dip to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot with tortilla chips or veggies.
how to serve Empanada Dip
Serve hot in the baking dish or transfer to a shallow bowl. Offer tortilla chips, sliced bell peppers, or carrot sticks for dipping. For a full spread, add a light sweet option like caramel apple cheesecake dip for dessert after the savory bites.
how to store Empanada Dip
Cool the dip to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in a safe bowl until hot.
tips to make Empanada Dip
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
- Soften cream cheese first for easy mixing.
- Taste the meat after adding taco seasoning and adjust if needed.
- Keep the dip warm in a small slow cooker for parties.
variation (if any)
- Use ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef.
- Add chopped jalapeño for heat.
- Swap cheddar or Monterey Jack for pepper jack for more spice.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dip ahead?
A: Yes. Mix the ingredients and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze the dip?
A: Yes. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: Yes. Replace beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based crumbling meat and follow the same steps.
Q: Can I make this less spicy?
A: Use less taco seasoning or use a mild blend. You can also skip jalapeños.
Conclusion
This Empanada Dip is simple, warm, and a crowd-pleaser. For a bright, fresh sauce to serve with the dip, try the 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Empanada Sauce.
Print
Empanada Dip
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A warm, cheesy dip inspired by empanada filling, perfect as a party snack or family appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium sweet yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or fresh veggies (for dipping)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until crumbly.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in taco seasoning and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release flavors.
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream; mix until smooth.
- Fold in the meat mixture and half of the shredded cheeses until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer dip to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot with tortilla chips or veggies.
Notes
Use lean ground beef to reduce grease. Soften cream cheese first for easy mixing. Keep the dip warm in a small slow cooker for parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: empanada dip, cheesy dip, football party, appetizer, dips