Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here! When it comes to game day, the food is just as important as the game itself. And if you’re looking for an appetizer that is a guaranteed touchdown, this Football Dip is it. It’s a simple, savory, and incredibly delicious dip that is packed with ground beef, two kinds of cheese, and a creamy, zesty flavor that everyone will love. It’s a true game day champion that you can have on the table in about 30 minutes, and it’s a dish that will always be the first to disappear.
I first started making this dip for a Super Bowl party, and it was such a huge hit that it became a staple at every party I host. It’s the perfect dip because it has everything you want in a great appetizer: a creamy base, a savory meat layer, and a gooey, cheesy top. The combination of the zesty cream cheese and ranch with the flavorful ground beef is an absolute dream. It’s a simple, easy, and incredibly delicious dip that is perfect for a game day or any party.
Why I Love This Recipe
What I love most about this Football Dip is its sheer simplicity and fantastic flavor. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in a matter of minutes. The combination of the rich ground beef, the creamy cream cheese, and a zesty ranch flavor is a perfect trio of flavors. The cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese add a beautiful, melty top that is just plain delicious.
This recipe is also a lifesaver for big gatherings. You can prepare it in a single skillet and just pop it in the oven right before your guests arrive. It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily make your own by adding a little extra spice or a different kind of cheese. For another great crowd-pleasing dip, my recipe for This Crockpot Nacho Dip is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers is also a huge hit.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Swaps and Notes
- Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a leaner alternative.
- Cheese: The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese gives you the perfect melt and a great flavor. You can also use a Mexican blend or a different kind of cheese like pepper jack for a little kick.
- Ranch Seasoning: A packet of ranch seasoning mix is the key to this recipe’s zesty flavor.
- Sour Cream: The sour cream adds a creamy, cool flavor that is a perfect complement to the savory dip. You can also use plain Greek yogurt as an alternative.
- Toppings: Green onions are a classic garnish, but you can also add other toppings like fresh jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a little bit of cilantro.
Directions
- Brown the Meat: In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Season the meat with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Make the Creamy Base: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and the ranch seasoning mix to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream until it is fully incorporated.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the dip.
- Bake: Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and a light golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with your favorite tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread.
Tips for Success
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free dip. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you start.
- Drain the Meat: Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef before you add the other ingredients. This prevents the dip from being greasy.
- Serve Immediately: This dip is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, while the cheese is still warm and gooey.
- Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: Using a large, oven-safe skillet for this recipe makes cleanup a breeze, as you can go straight from the stove to the oven.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Football Dip is a perfect appetizer on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. It’s a must-have for any game day party. For another great party appetizer, my recipe for Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter is also a total hit. To make it a full-on party spread, you could also serve it alongside a fun, interactive meal like my This Walking Taco Bar is My Favorite No-Fuss Way to Feed a Crowd.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Please note: This is an approximation and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
This is a rich and decadent appetizer, so it’s best enjoyed as a special treat.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently in the microwave or in a pot on the stove over low heat. You may need to add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you’re a fan of simple, delicious and easy meals, you’ll love some of my other creations. For a great weeknight dinner, my recipe for This Dorito Casserole is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut is a lifesaver. For another great party appetizer, my This Beer Cheese Dip is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes is always a huge hit. And for a great one-pan wonder, you can’t go wrong with my recipe for These Sheet Pan Quesadillas are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast.
Final Thoughts
This Football Dip is a recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home. It’s a simple, savory, and incredibly delicious dip that is the perfect way to get a little bit of that game day spirit on your plate.
I’d love to know what your go-to game day appetizer is! Let me know in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow me for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!
Football Dip: A Simple and Savory Game Day Appetizer
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups sour cream
- 4 cups green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat and stir in sour cream, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and well combined.
- Mix in chopped green onions and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve warm with tortilla chips or bread.
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