Ingredients

Main:

• 500 g ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasoning:

• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
• ½ tsp cumin

Cheese sauce:

• 200 g cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter

Optional add-ins:

• 2 tbsp tomato paste (for slight tang, still keto-friendly in small amount)
• 1–2 green chilies or jalapeños (chopped)
• Fresh coriander or parsley for garnish

Step 1: Cook the beef

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
3. Drain excess fat if needed (leave a little for flavor).

Step 2: Add aromatics and seasoning

1. Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
3. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, and cumin.
4. If using tomato paste, add it now and cook for 1–2 minutes.

Step 3: Make it creamy

1. Lower heat to medium-low.
2. Add butter and cream cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
3. Pour in heavy cream and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Add cheese

1. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
2. Stir continuously until fully melted and thick.

The dip should be creamy and slightly stretchy.

Step 5: Final touches

• Add chopped chilies if using.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish with fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot for best texture.
• Pair with:
  • Cucumber slices
  • Celery sticks
  • Lettuce wraps
  • Keto crackers

Approximate Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings)

• Calories: 420–480
• Fat: 35–40 g
• Protein: 22–26 g
• Net carbs: 3–5 g

Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting (pre-shredded can be grainy).
• Keep heat low when adding cheese to avoid splitting.
• If too thick, add a splash of cream; if too thin, simmer a bit longer.

Variations

• Add mushrooms for extra texture
• Use taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex version
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier dip