Recipe for Loaded Beef and Bean Nacho Cheese Dip
Ingredients:
- Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Bean Layer:
- 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Extras for Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced black olives
- Sour cream
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Prepare Bean Layer: In a bowl, mix the refried beans with onion and garlic powder. Spread this mixture at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt.
- Assemble the Dip: Pour the cheese sauce over the bean layer. Top with the cooked beef mixture. If desired, add a layer of extra shredded cheese.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and top with green onions, jalapeños, tomatoes, black olives, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Nutritional Analysis and Health Benefits:
- Calories: Each serving is rich in calories, making it a hearty choice for gatherings.
- Protein: High protein content from ground beef and cheese, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber: Refried beans contribute fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and green onions provide vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
Health Impact:
- Heart Health: While delicious, this dip is high in saturated fats and sodium, which can impact heart health negatively if consumed in large amounts.
- Bone Health: Cheese and milk are good sources of calcium and vitamin D, important for bone strength.
- Metabolic Boost: Spices such as cumin and paprika can have anti-inflammatory properties and may boost metabolism.
This Loaded Beef and Bean Nacho Cheese Dip is perfect for entertaining and offers a satisfying, flavor-packed snack. However, it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially by those watching their caloric intake or managing dietary restrictions related to cholesterol and heart health.
