Description
This Baked Cowboy Dip is a hearty and flavorful appetizer combining creamy cheese, smoky BBQ sauce, spicy jalapeños, seasoned ground beef, and fresh vegetables. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with crispy fried onions and fresh scallions, it's perfect for game day gatherings or casual parties.
Ingredients
Dairy & Sauces
- 1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce
- 1 (1-oz.) packet taco seasoning
Vegetables & Beans
- 3 tbsp. pickling liquid from jarred jalapeños
- 1/3 cup sliced jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained
- 1 (15-oz.) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
- 2 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda
- 1 1/2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar
Meat & Oils
- 2 tsp. canola oil
- 1 lb. (80% lean) ground beef
Extras
- 1 cup store-bought crispy fried onions, coarsely chopped
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, BBQ sauce, and pickling liquid. Stir in the drained black beans, corn, shredded smoked gouda, and the white parts of the scallions until well mixed.
- Cook Ground Beef and Vegetables: Heat canola oil in a 12-inch cast-iron or ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and finely chopped bell pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through and the peppers are softened, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning. Remove from heat.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the cream cheese and vegetable mixture to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir until all ingredients are fully combined. Sprinkle shredded extra-sharp cheddar evenly over the top.
- Bake the Dip: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Add Final Toppings and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven. Top with coarsely chopped jalapeños, crispy fried onions, and the green parts of the scallions. Serve immediately alongside tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- Use a cast-iron or ovenproof skillet to avoid transferring the dip between pans for cooking and baking.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity to control the spice level.
- Homemade BBQ sauce can be substituted for a personalized flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- For a lighter option, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.