Cheesy Meaty Texas Trash Dip (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meat Base

01 - 450g ground beef
02 - 1 packet taco seasoning mix
03 - 60ml water

→ Creamy Base

04 - 225g cream cheese, softened
05 - 240g sour cream
06 - 450g canned refried beans
07 - 120ml salsa
08 - 115g canned diced green chiles, drained

→ Seasonings

09 - 225g shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

→ Optional Garnishes

12 - Sliced green onions
13 - Diced tomatoes
14 - Sliced jalapeños
15 - Chopped cilantro

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 175°C. Lightly grease a 23×23cm baking dish.
02 - Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
03 - Add taco seasoning and 60ml water to the browned beef. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the liquid reduces.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, refried beans, salsa, diced green chiles, half the cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
05 - Fold the seasoned beef into the creamy base until evenly incorporated.
06 - Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until bubbly at the edges and the top is lightly golden.
08 - Remove from oven and add desired garnishes. Serve hot with tortilla chips or vegetable crudités.

# Notes:

01 - Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
02 - For extra heat, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or use hot salsa.