Spicy Cheesy Beef Dip (Print-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Meat Base

01 - 1 packet of taco spice mix
02 - 450g minced beef
03 - 60ml water

→ Creamy Base

04 - 450g refried beans (canned)
05 - 225g softened cream cheese
06 - 115g drained canned green chiles
07 - 240g sour cream
08 - 120ml of your favorite salsa

→ Seasonings

09 - 1/2 teaspoon powder made from garlic
10 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
11 - 225g of Mexican cheese blend, shredded (split into two parts)

→ Optional Garnishes

12 - Sliced jalapeños
13 - Chopped tomatoes
14 - Cilantro (freshly chopped)
15 - Thinly sliced spring onions

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Turn your oven to 175°C. Give a 23×23cm oven dish a light layer of oil or non-stick spray.
02 - Cook the ground beef all the way through in a frying pan over medium heat. Drain off the extra grease.
03 - Stir taco spices and 60ml water into the cooked meat. Let it cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes until the liquid mostly evaporates.
04 - Mix cream cheese, sour cream, refried beans, salsa, half the grated cheese mix, green chiles, garlic powder, and onion powder in a big bowl until smooth.
05 - Stir the seasoned beef into the creamy mixture until it's fully mixed together.
06 - Put the mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Sprinkle on the rest of the cheese.
07 - Pop it in the oven for 25–30 minutes. It’s done when the edges are bubbling and the top is slightly golden.
08 - Take it out of the oven, add any toppings you want, and serve while hot with veggie sticks or tortilla chips.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - You can make this a day ahead. Just stash it in the fridge and bake when ready.
02 - Like it hot? Toss in 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or swap in a spicy salsa.