Sizzling Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip is the ultimate party appetizer that combines the flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger with the creamy, cheesy goodness of queso. Packed with ground beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, this dip is perfect for game days, gatherings, or any occasion that calls for bold, indulgent flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: Tastes like your favorite bacon cheeseburger in a dip form.
- Easy to Make: Quick to prepare and great for feeding a crowd.
- Customizable: Adjust the toppings and spices to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Parties: A hit with guests and pairs well with chips, veggies, or bread.
- Comfort Food Classic: Combines two favorites—burgers and queso—into one amazing dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Onion, finely diced
- Garlic, minced
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Worcestershire sauce
- Smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, green onions
Directions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and creamy.
- Combine and Top: Stir in the crumbled bacon (reserving some for garnish). Transfer the dip to a serving dish or keep it warm in a skillet. Top with reserved bacon and any optional toppings like diced pickles, tomatoes, or green onions.
- Serve: Serve immediately with tortilla chips, pita chips, pretzels, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6-8 as an appetizer
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat and use veggie bacon.
- Loaded Queso: Mix in diced pickles, mustard, or ketchup for an even more authentic burger taste.
- Healthier Twist: Use lean ground turkey or chicken and low-fat cheese options.
- Baked Version: Transfer the prepared dip to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Freezing: This dip doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy cheese base, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip up to the point of serving, then reheat gently before adding final toppings.
What’s the best way to keep the dip warm during a party?
Serve it in a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting to keep it creamy and ready for dipping.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon can save time—just chop or crumble it and add as directed.
What if my queso is too thick?
Stir in a splash of milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Can I substitute canned tomatoes?
If you don’t have diced tomatoes with green chilies, use plain diced tomatoes and add a small can of green chilies or fresh diced chilies.
Can I use a different cheese blend?
Yes, try pepper jack, gouda, or Colby cheese for different flavor variations.
What’s the best way to crumble bacon?
Use a knife to chop cooled bacon into small pieces, or crumble it by hand for a rustic look.
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese substitutes for a dairy-free version.
How do I prevent the cheese from separating?
Keep the heat on low while melting the cheese and stir constantly for a smooth texture.
What are some good dipping options?
Tortilla chips, soft pretzels, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggies like celery and bell peppers pair wonderfully with this dip.
Conclusion
Sizzling Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip is a must-try appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and sure to be a hit at any gathering. With its creamy cheese, savory beef, and crispy bacon, this dip is an indulgent treat that will have everyone coming back for more. Customize it to your liking and serve it warm with your favorite dippers for an unforgettable crowd-pleaser!
Print
Sizzling Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sizzling Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip is the ultimate party appetizer! Loaded with crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a touch of spice, this creamy dip tastes just like a cheeseburger in a skillet. Serve it warm with chips, veggies, or even slider buns!
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/2 pound (225 g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup (80 g) diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (10 oz / 284 ml) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), drained
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225 g) processed cheese (e.g., Velveeta), cubed
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk (optional, for consistency)
For garnish (optional):
- Diced pickles
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
For serving:
- Tortilla chips, crackers, or veggie sticks
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another minute. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Make the queso base
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and heavy cream.
- Add the processed cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and smooth.
- If the dip is too thick, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine and garnish
- Stir in half of the cooked bacon. Transfer the queso dip to a serving dish or keep it warm in the skillet.
- Garnish with the remaining bacon, diced pickles, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the queso dip warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggie sticks. Enjoy the sizzling, cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the dip and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, adding a splash of milk to loosen the consistency.
- Customization: Add jalapeños for spice or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef and bacon with plant-based alternatives.