Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a deliciously cheesy snack that brings everyone together, this cheesy bean dip will quickly become your go-to. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy movie night, this dish combines the creamy richness of cheese and the comforting heartiness of refried beans. It’s a simple recipe that takes just minutes to prepare, bringing layers of flavor everyone will rave about.
“This dip was a hit at our game night! I can’t believe how easy it was to make and how everyone kept coming back for more!”
How to Make Cheesy Bean Dip
Creating this cheesy delight is a breeze! A few simple ingredients lead to a warm, gooey dip that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips. You’ll be able to whip this up in no time and impress your guests with minimal effort. Below are the ingredients you’ll need to get started.
Ingredients
To whip up a pan of cheesy goodness, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Tortilla chips for serving
Substitution Tips: If you’re out of cheddar, any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack works well. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese.
Directions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the refried beans, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, cumin, and garlic powder until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve hot alongside tortilla chips for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
While this cheesy bean dip is fabulous on its own, you can elevate it even further with a few tasty additions. Consider pairing it with a side salad for some freshness or adding guacamole for a creamy contrast. You can also serve it with a variety of toppings like diced tomatoes or jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This dip shines at parties but is equally delightful as a comforting snack at home!
Storage & Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, I assure you), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled dip for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Pro Tips
For the best flavor and texture, opt for block cream cheese instead of the spreadable kind; it will meld into a creamy dip more seamlessly. If you want an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or mix in some diced green chiles into your beans. Always taste your mixture before baking — this way, you can adjust the spice levels to match your preference.
Variations
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Consider adding black beans for an earthy twist or stirring in some corn for added sweetness. For a spicier kick, swap the salsa for a spicy salsa verde or add some chopped jalapeños into the mix. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, this dip is naturally meat-free, making it a fantastic option for gatherings!
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply bake it when ready to serve.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheese types. Gouda, pepper jack, or mozzarella can add unique flavors and textures to your dip!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are gluten-free, but always check your labels to ensure your tortilla chips are also gluten-free, especially if you have allergies.
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Cheesy Bean Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously cheesy dip made with refried beans, cream cheese, and cheddar, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the refried beans, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salsa, cumin, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve hot alongside tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese. This dip is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free; just check your tortilla chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg