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Baked Cowboy Dip Recipe

4.5 from 111 reviews

This Baked Cowboy Dip is a hearty, smoky, and creamy appetizer perfect for gatherings. It combines layers of cream cheese, sour cream, BBQ sauce, and smoky gouda with seasoned ground beef, black beans, and corn, all baked until golden and bubbly. Topped with jalapeños, crispy fried onions, and scallions, it pairs perfectly with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dairy and Sauces

  • 1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce
  • 3 tbsp. pickling liquid from jarred jalapeños
  • 1 cup shredded smoked gouda
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Beans

  • 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained
  • 1 (15-oz.) can corn kernels, drained
  • 1/3 cup sliced jalapeños, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
  • 2 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced

Meat and Seasoning

  • 1 lb. (80% lean) ground beef
  • 1 (1-oz.) packet taco seasoning

Others

  • 2 tsp. canola oil
  • 1 cup store-bought crispy fried onions, coarsely chopped
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Cream Cheese Mixture: Arrange a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, BBQ sauce, and pickling liquid from jalapeños. Mix well and then fold in the drained black beans, corn kernels, shredded smoked gouda, and the white parts of the scallions to create the creamy base.
  2. Cook the Beef and Vegetables: Heat the canola oil in a 12-inch cast-iron or ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and finely chopped bell pepper, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the peppers have softened. Drain excess fat from the skillet, stir in the taco seasoning, then remove from the heat.
  3. Combine Mixtures: Pour the prepared cream cheese mixture into the cooked beef and pepper mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. Sprinkle the shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture in the skillet.
  4. Bake the Dip: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is golden brown.
  5. Add Toppings and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and immediately top with the finely chopped jalapeños, crispy fried onions, and the green parts of the scallions. Serve warm alongside tortilla chips for dipping.

Notes

  • You can substitute the smoked gouda for another smoked cheese like smoked cheddar if you prefer.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeños if you like your dip spicier or milder.
  • Use homemade BBQ sauce for a fresher taste or a favorite store brand for convenience.
  • The dip can be prepared ahead by making the cream cheese mixture and cooking the beef separately, then assembling and baking right before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Keywords: Baked Cowboy Dip, BBQ dip, ground beef dip, party dip, smoky cheddar dip, creamy bean dip, cowboy appetizer, game day dip