Mediterranean Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip
Take your queso dip game to the next level with this Mediterranean Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip—a rich, cheesy appetizer loaded with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, tangy feta, fresh tomatoes, and Mediterranean herbs. It’s like a cheeseburger-meets-Mediterranean mezze platter in dip form!
Perfect for game day, parties, or casual gatherings, this dip is best served with pita chips, warm flatbread, or veggies for scooping.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Dip Base:
8 oz ground beef or lamb
4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 small red onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil or bacon drippings
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
4 oz cream cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)
For the Mediterranean Toppings:
½ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
¼ cup cucumber, finely diced (optional for fresh crunch)
2 tbsp Kalamata olives, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Extra feta for garnish
Pita chips, naan bread, or fresh veggies for dipping
Instructions:
Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels.
In the same skillet, add the ground beef or lamb. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the onion, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
Make the Queso Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or bacon drippings over medium heat.
Add the milk (or half-and-half) and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
Gradually stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and feta, whisking constantly until melted and creamy.
Add lemon juice for a Mediterranean brightness.
Combine and Finish the Dip:
Stir the beef and bacon mixture into the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl or small slow cooker to keep warm.
Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, crispy bacon, parsley or dill, and extra feta.
Serve:
Serve hot with pita chips, warm flatbread, naan, or sliced vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers.
Serving Ideas:
Pair with grilled pita wedges, toasted baguette slices, or crudités.
Use leftovers as a topping for Mediterranean-style burgers, nachos, or baked potatoes.
Tips & Variations
Tips for Success:
Keep the Dip Warm:
Serve the queso in a mini slow cooker, fondue pot, or cast iron skillet to keep it warm and creamy during your event.
Don’t Overheat the Cheese:
Melt the cheese slowly over low heat to prevent it from breaking or becoming grainy.
Fresh Toppings Last:
Add tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and herbs just before serving to maintain a fresh, crisp texture on top of the creamy dip.
Make Ahead Friendly:
Prepare the cheese sauce and meat mixture separately a day ahead. Reheat gently and combine before serving.
Flavor Variations:
Make It Spicy:
Add harissa paste, Aleppo pepper, or red pepper flakes for a Mediterranean-inspired heat.
Greek Lamb Version:
Use ground lamb instead of beef for a richer, more traditional Mediterranean flavor.
Herbed Cream Cheese Swap:
Use herbed cream cheese (like garlic & chive) for extra depth of flavor.
Vegetarian Option:
Skip the bacon and meat and substitute with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
Add Yogurt:
For extra tang, swirl in a spoonful of Greek yogurt just before serving.
Avocado Twist:
Top the dip with diced avocado or tzatziki for a creamy, cool contrast.
Extra Cheese Lovers:
Stir in kasseri cheese or halloumi crumbles for an authentic Mediterranean cheesy bite.
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and cheese sauce separately up to 1 day in advance. Reheat gently and combine just before serving. Add the fresh toppings right before you eat to keep them crisp.
Q: How do I keep the queso from getting too thick?
A: If the dip thickens while sitting, stir in a splash of warm milk or broth to loosen it back to creamy consistency.
Q: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Cook the meat separately, then combine the cheese sauce and meat in a small slow cooker on low heat to keep warm during serving.
Q: What are the best dippers for this queso?
A: Great options include:
Pita chips
Toasted naan or flatbread
Vegetable sticks (cucumber, bell peppers, celery)
Toasted baguette slices
Q: Can I use turkey bacon or plant-based meat?
A: Absolutely! Turkey bacon, plant-based bacon, or meat substitutes work well for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. ¼ cup dip)
(Based on 12 servings)
Calories: 220
Protein: 10g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 480mg
Cholesterol: 45mg
Conclusion:
The Mediterranean Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip is a bold, indulgent appetizer that combines comfort-food cheesiness with Mediterranean zest. Packed with juicy meat, crispy bacon, and vibrant toppings like feta, olives, and fresh herbs, this dip turns classic queso into a party showstopper. Whether for game day, family gatherings, or a mezze-style spread, it’s sure to keep guests coming back for more.