Loaded Taco Dip

Instructions

1. Preheat and Brown Beef: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Reduce the heat to low, add the taco seasoning and the amount of water specified on the package packet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Dip: In an 11-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish, spread the refried beans into an even layer. Spoon the salsa over the beans and spread gently. Next, evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef over the salsa. Finally, sprinkle both shredded cheeses over the top.

3. Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and the edges are hot.

4. Add Toppings and Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Immediately top with rows or sections of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, olives, red onion, jalapeños, and avocado. Dollop with sour cream and sprinkle generously with fresh cilantro.

5. Serve immediately right from the skillet with plenty of Fritos or tortilla chips for dipping.

Chef’s Tips:

• Shortcut: Use 2 cups of pre-cooked taco meat or shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with taco seasoning.

• Make it Spicy: Use hot salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef. Leave the seeds in your jalapeños for extra heat.

• Make it Ahead: The beef layer can be cooked and stored in the fridge a day ahead. Assemble the cold layers and bake just before your guests arrive.

• Dairy-Free? Use vegan cheese and a plant-based sour cream alternative.