👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. Crisp the Bacon
In a separate pan or in the oven, cook your bacon until perfectly crispy. Crumble and set aside (try not to eat it all while prepping 😅).
3. Make the Queso Base
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and half-and-half. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Add the Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta (if using), one handful at a time, letting it melt before adding more. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Mix It All Together
Fold in the cooked beef, half of the chopped bacon, tomato, green onion, jalapeño, and relish (if using). Stir to combine. Keep over low heat or transfer to a warm skillet or slow cooker for serving.
6. Serve Hot
Top with the remaining bacon, pickles, a drizzle of ketchup or mustard (optional but fun!), and maybe a little sprinkle of more cheese.
🧀 Serve with tortilla chips, potato wedges, burger buns, pretzel bites, or even veggie sticks — anything goes!
🔥 Variations & Tips
- Make It Spicier: Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.
- Add Beer: Swap some milk for beer in the cheese sauce for pub-style queso.
- Slow Cooker Version: Cook beef/bacon first, then dump everything into a greased slow cooker on low for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Leftovers: Use it as a burger topping, nacho sauce, or even as a stuffing for baked potatoes. Game-changer.
🧡 Why You’ll Love It
This dip is rich, satisfying, and so indulgent — like eating a loaded bacon cheeseburger in melty queso form. It’s the kind of appetizer people hover around at parties, dip after dip, with that “just one more bite” look in their eyes.
You can prep it ahead of time, store in the fridge, and just reheat before serving. It’s also totally adaptable — play with cheeses, spice levels, or swap in turkey if you want to lighten it up (but let’s be honest, bacon wins).
Ashley, want me to design this into a Facebook or Instagram carousel, TikTok voiceover script, or a blog printable? I can even give it a cozy grandma-style intro if you want to match that nostalgic vibe. Just say the word! ❤️