Name: Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb Panorama Organic Grass-Fed Ground Beef; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Kosher salt (enough to coat meat); 1 cup chicken broth or bone broth; 1 TBS ghee; 1 15oz can corn (drained); 1 6.5oz can sliced olives (drained); 1 cup diced tomatoes (drained if canned); Chopped cilantro (for garnish); 2 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided; 1 cup sour cream (room temperature, stirred well)

If you love bold flavors and irresistible textures that come together in a single dish, let me introduce you to the ultimate crowd-pleaser: the Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe. This glorious fiesta in a dish combines juicy, seasoned ground beef, caramelized corn, melty cheese, creamy sour cream, and fresh veggies all stacked in perfect harmony. Each bite bursts with flavor and will have you reaching for more, making it the star appetizer at your next gathering or a fun weeknight treat you’ll want on repeat. Trust me, once you make this Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe arsenal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows twelve bowls and items arranged on a white marbled surface. The top row has a white bowl with raw ground meat on the left, a clear glass filled with yellow liquid in the middle, and fresh green cilantro leaves on the right. Below them, there is a white round plate with four spices arranged in a circle: red, brown, light tan, and reddish brown, a small white bowl of melted butter, and a white bowl with sliced black olives. Further down, a white bowl contains bright yellow corn kernels on the left and a small white round bowl of chopped red tomatoes near the center. On the bottom left, a white bowl is filled with shredded yellow cheese, while to the right, there is a wider white bowl full of thick white sour cream. In the very front center, three whole red tomatoes on green stems lie directly on the marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the right ingredients is the secret to this dip’s magic. Each element adds a unique layer of flavor and texture that makes this recipe so unforgettable. From aromatic spices to fresh veggies and creamy cheese, these essentials are simple but essential to bring it all together.

1 lb Panorama Organic Grass-Fed Ground Beef: Rich, flavorful meat that forms the hearty base of your dip.
2 tsp cumin: Adds warm, earthy undertones vital to taco seasoning.
1 tsp chili powder: Brings a subtle heat and deep chili flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder: Provides a punch of savory goodness throughout.
1 tsp dried oregano: Offers a mild herbal lift to the spice blend.
½ tsp smoked paprika: Enhances smokiness and complexity.
Kosher salt: Perfectly seasons the meat and the entire dip.
1 cup chicken broth or bone broth: Keeps the meat juicy and adds savory depth.
1 tablespoon ghee: For roasting the corn—its nutty flavor is a game changer.
1 15oz can corn, drained: Sweet roasted corn adds a caramelized pop of texture.
1 6.5oz can sliced olives, drained: Tangy olives layer in a briny contrast.
2 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: A perfect melty mix that blankets the dip.
1 cup sour cream, room temperature: Adds cool, creamy richness for balance.
1 cup diced tomatoes, drained if canned: Fresh and juicy, brightening every bite.
Chopped cilantro, for garnish: Brings a fresh herbal pop to finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Spice Mix

Start by heating two medium-large pans over medium heat — one will be for the taco meat and the other for caramelizing the corn. While the pans warm up, mix together your cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. This spice blend is the heart of your Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe, so take a moment to appreciate those fragrant aromas.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

If you have a solid block of ground beef, slice it in half horizontally to create two flat squares. Generously season both sides with kosher salt. Place one meat square into the heated pan and let it brown nicely for 2-3 minutes per side. This searing locks in all the juices and flavor. Once browned, break the meat into small crumbles and cook for another couple of minutes until fully cooked through.

Step 3: Roast the Corn

Meanwhile, melt the ghee in the second pan. Add the drained corn with two pinches of kosher salt and stir to coat. Let it cook untouched for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally just enough to prevent burning. You’ll want to see those golden caramelized edges on the kernels that add a wonderful sweet, smoky bite to the dip.

Step 4: Season and Simmer the Meat

Sprinkle your spice blend evenly over the cooked crumbled meat, stir to combine, and cook for 1 more minute to bring out the flavors. Then pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until most of the liquid has evaporated but the meat stays juicy and tender. This step makes the taco meat absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Assemble the Dip Layers

Spread the warm, spiced taco meat over the base of a 9×13 baking dish. Generously cover it with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Next, evenly layer the caramelized corn on top of the cheese. Distribute the sliced olives over the corn, then sprinkle another cup of cheese over everything. These layers build the depth of flavor you want in your Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe.

Step 6: Broil Until Melty

Position your oven rack in the center, preheat the broiler on high, and broil the layered dip for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and melts to gooey perfection. Keep a close eye to prevent burning — you want a perfect golden top.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Toppings

Once out of the oven, evenly spread the sour cream over the melted cheese, creating a cool, creamy layer. Scatter diced tomatoes over that, then top with the final half-cup of cheese. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a bright, herbaceous note that ties everything beautifully together.

How to Serve Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe

A silver pan filled with cooked ground beef in a brown sauce sits on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand holds a black spatula with a wooden handle placed inside the pan, stirring the beef. Around the pan, a small white bowl of yellow corn kernels, a small white bowl of chopped red tomatoes, and a small white bowl with a pale yellow sauce are arranged. To the right, fresh red tomatoes on the vine and green parsley add color to the scene. A green and white striped cloth lies next to the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is an absolute must for this dish, but feel free to add sliced jalapeños for heat or a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish. A dollop of guacamole or extra sour cream on the side also complements the layers perfectly and adds variety to each bite.

Side Dishes

This dip is fantastic paired with crunchy tortilla chips — plain, flavored, or even veggie-based for a twist. You can also serve it with soft flour or corn tortillas for scooping, or alongside a crisp salad to balance all that rich flavor with fresh crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try serving this layered taco dip in individual mini mason jars or clear cups so guests can see the vibrant layers. You can also customize it by adding layers of black beans or swapping the ground beef for seasoned shredded chicken. The options are endless, and it’s always a hit no matter how you serve it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making the dip taste even better the next day.

Freezing

While this dip is best fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze the cooked meat layer separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before assembling the dip to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the layered dip in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warm and the cheese melts again. Avoid microwaving for best texture; a gentle oven reheat keeps the layers just right.

FAQs

Can I make the Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. The layering technique and spices will still shine through beautifully.

What types of cheese work best?

A Mexican blend cheese is perfect for meltiness and flavor, but you can also use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and even a little queso fresco for an authentic taste and gooey texture.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh corn kernels roasted in ghee will add a great texture and sweetness. Just be sure to cook them long enough to get those delicious caramelized bits.

Is this dip spicy?

The spice level is mild to moderate due to the chili powder and smoked paprika. You can easily adjust the heat by adding cayenne or chopped jalapeños if you like a little extra kick.

How should I serve this dip for a crowd?

Layer it in a large dish and keep it warm in a low oven or slow cooker on the warm setting. Provide plenty of chips or tortilla slices for scooping, and consider adding fun toppings and sides so guests can customize their bites.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Layered Taco Dip with Meat Recipe that makes every gathering more festive and every meal more exciting. From its vibrant layers to the perfect balance of bold spices and creamy textures, this dip never fails to impress. So grab your ingredients, invite some friends, and get ready to dive into a flavor-packed delight that’s sure to become a fast favorite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be a go-to for all your festive occasions and cozy nights in.