One of my favorite cuisines is Mexican food. You can't beat the flavor profiles, the variety of recipes, the classic dishes and everything in between. My favorite recipes are quesadillas, enchiladas, and this delicious four layer taco dip, and for good reason. Easy to make, and even easier to devour in seconds, this dip is the best recipe for a game day gathering or even for dinner.

Four Layer Taco Dip

My love for Mexican food is strong, and whenever I have the opportunity to make quesadillas, fajitas, or tacos, I go for it. This four layer taco dip is literally a taco in dip form and is the perfect crowd pleaser. Game day snacks, dinner, lunch, appetizer for a girls night, this taco dip is versatile and travels well, too. Grab your favorite type of chips and get ready for the best tasting taco dip you'll eat.

What's the deal with taco dips?

The origin of taco dip dates back to the 80s, and was first named Seven Layer Taco Dip in Family Circle magazine. Since then, there have been a bevy of varieties, numerous layers, and alterations to this beloved dip. My version of a taco dip is only four layers: sour cream, salsa, ground beef (or turkey), and shredded Mexican cheese. This layered dip is not typically baked in the oven either, it's meant to be a dip served as is. No frills, no fancy names, just a good ol' taco dip waiting for you to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• Ground meat: I like to use traditional ground beef in my taco dip, but you can definitely use ground turkey if that's your prerogative.
• Sour cream: the glue that holds it together, sort of.
• Salsa: any salsa will do here.
• Cheese: shredded Mexican blend works best.

Directions:

You'll shock yourself with how easy it is to make this recipe ahead of time, and be ready for kickoff with time to spare for a margarita.

• In a frying pan, brown the ground beef until its almost fully cooked.
• Add the taco seasoning and continue to brown until done. Turn off the flame and let cool for 10-15 minutes.
• Meanwhile, prep a large baking dish with a layer of sour cream at the base of the dish.
• Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to smooth the sour cream around to form an even layer.
• To the sour cream, pour the salsa on top and jiggle the baking dish to spread around evenly.
• Pour the ground beef on top of the salsa, then add a generous layer of cheese.

Swaps and Tips:

Do I have to bake the dish until the cheese melts?

No! In fact, this dish is meant to be served as it, without baking or melting the cheese.

I don't eat red meat, what can I use instead?

Feel free to use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based crumbles! They all work great here too.

What can I do with leftovers?

Throw the leftovers into a tortilla and make into a burrito, or ladle some of the dip into scoops for a fun kid-friendly snack.

With Super Bowl, and other events, around the corner, dips are the perfect appetizer! You can make this one, and feed for a few days off one container of this taco dip. I've been making this taco dip for Super Bowl for years, and it's always a hit with my friends. I know it will be for yours too!

Hungry for more?

Check out these other yummy appetizers

• Potato Skins
• Spinach Dip
• Crescent Roll Mini Hot Dogs