Hot and Cold Taco Appetizer Dip

This is a twist on the taco dip recipe that's been around for quite awhile, because this one has seasoned meat. If you enjoy taco dip, but have been wondering "Where's the Beef?", this one is for you. It is heartier and delicious. The hot/cold combination is great...as it is in most Mexican themed dishes. We have actually had this as a main dish for dinner and it disappears before my eyes whenever we have it at any gathering!

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 lbs ground beef
• 1⁄2 cup water
• 1  envelope  taco seasoning
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
• 2  medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1  small onion, chopped
• 2  cups  shredded lettuce
• 1⁄2-3⁄4 cup  taco sauce
• 2  cups  shredded sharp cheddar cheese or 2  cups  Mexican blend cheese
•  plain tortilla chips

Directions

1. Fry ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, drain fat.
2. Add taco seasoning and water and simmer for 5 minutes, keep warm.
3. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
4. Spread on a serving platter or large pizza pan.
5. Layer with meat mixture, lettuce, tomatoes and onions.
6. Drizzle on taco sauce and sprinkle cheese on top.
7. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.