Table of Contents
Table of Contents
When the game is on, nothing beats a warm, creamy, and savory dip that you can scoop up with your favorite chips or crackers. While some dips are good, this Hot Chipped Beef Dip is in a league of its own. It’s a nostalgic nod to classic comfort food, and it delivers a rich, hearty flavor that feels both familiar and exciting. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a centerpiece that brings people together, encouraging them to gather around the bowl and share in the delicious moment.
This recipe is a simple twist on the classic creamed chipped beef on toast, a military and diner staple that has been a source of comfort for decades. By transforming it into a decadent, cheesy dip, it becomes a party-ready appetizer that’s easy to share. The combination of salty chipped beef, creamy sour cream, and a blend of cheeses creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
- Dietary: Gluten-free (if using gluten-free bread crumbs or crackers)
Equipment and Tools
- Large skillet or saucepan: A 10-inch skillet or 3-quart saucepan is needed to brown the beef and create the sauce.
- 8×8-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet: A smaller baking dish is perfect for holding and baking the dip.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Serving Suggestions
- Plating recommendations: Serve the hot dip directly from the baking dish. Its bubbling, golden-brown top is a feast for the eyes.
- Garnish ideas: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions can add a pop of color and freshness.
- Complementary side dishes: This dip is fantastic with a wide variety of dippers. Pair it with sturdy chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices. For a healthier option, serve it with bell pepper strips, carrot sticks, or cucumber slices. It also complements other hearty game day snacks, like our creamy cajun potato soup or easy cheesy hashbrown casserole.
- Wine or beverage pairings: A full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a stout beer pairs well with the rich, savory flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a bold iced tea or a spicy ginger ale would be a great choice.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: Approximately 1/4 cup
- Calories per serving: 200-250 kcal (approximate, varies with cheese and sour cream)
- Macronutrient distribution:
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary information: This is a high-fat, high-protein snack. While it’s great for a treat, it is meant to be an indulgence. The sour cream and cheese provide calcium, and the chipped beef is a source of iron.
Storage and Reheating
- Proper storage instructions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration guidelines: Ensure the dip cools completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.
- Freezing recommendations: It is not recommended to freeze this dip, as the dairy products may separate and become grainy upon thawing.
- Reheating methods: Reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until hot. For a larger batch, reheat in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until bubbly.
Expert Tips and Variations
- Rinse the chipped beef: For a less salty dip, you can rinse the chipped beef in a colander under cold water before using it. Just make sure to pat it dry thoroughly.
- Cheesy goodness: You can use a variety of cheeses to change the flavor profile. Try using pepper jack for a spicier kick or provolone for a meltier texture.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t let the sauce boil, as this can cause the sour cream to curdle. A gentle simmer is all you need.
- Creative recipe variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
- Extra Texture: Stir in a few tablespoons of chopped water chestnuts for a pleasant crunch.
- Cream Cheese: Swap out some of the sour cream for a block of softened cream cheese for an even richer, thicker dip.
Share this recipe with your friends on Facebook or save it to your Pinterest boards for a sunny day treat!
Ingredients Section
- 1 (4-ounce / 113g) package dried beef, finely chopped: Found in the canned meat or snack aisle. Brands like Armour or Buddig are common.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) butter: For sautéing.
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced: Or a tablespoon of onion powder for a quicker option.
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream: Full-fat is recommended for the best texture.
- 1/2 cup (120g) mayonnaise: Adds to the creamy consistency.
- 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese: Divides into 1 cup for the dip and 1 cup for the topping.
- 1/2 cup (55g) shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp flavor.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) garlic powder: Adds a savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper: To taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the beef and onion: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped dried beef and onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and the beef is fragrant.
- Create the dip base: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the mozzarella cheese (1 cup), all of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Combine all ingredients: Add the sautéed beef and onion mixture to the bowl with the sour cream and cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to an 8×8-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Cook: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. The center should be hot.
- Serve: Let the dip cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite chips and dippers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of chipped beef?
A: Yes, you can. Brown a pound of lean ground beef, drain the fat, and season it with salt, pepper, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce before mixing it into the dip base.
Q: Is there a way to make this dip in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! After sautéing the beef and onion, combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until hot and bubbly.
Q: Can I make this a day ahead?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture (before baking) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake it right before your guests arrive.
Q: What if I don’t have mayonnaise?
A: You can substitute the mayonnaise with an equal amount of softened cream cheese for a thicker, richer texture.
Q: Are there any other recipes that use chipped beef?
A: Chipped beef is a very versatile ingredient. You could use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or in a simple one-pan meal, much like our sausage and veggies skillet.
Midjourney Prompt
/imagine prompt: closeup zoomed-in amateur photo from pinterest, style:wide shot side view time:daytime, a delicious, irresistible picture of a hot, bubbling chipped beef dip in an 8×8-inch baking dish. The top is golden and browned, and the dip is being scooped out with a crunchy cracker, creating a satisfying trail of melted cheese. The background is a softly blurred living room with a football game on a television screen.