This creamy and cheesy Warm Bean Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for parties, game days, or any gathering. Packed with layers of flavor and a touch of spice, it’s an easy appetizer that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips and your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute hosting.
- Creamy, cheesy texture with just the right amount of spice.
- Customizable with a variety of toppings to suit your taste.
- Vegetarian-friendly and naturally gluten-free.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd and sure to be a hit at any event.
Ingredients
- 16 oz refried beans (canned or homemade)
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 4 oz can diced mild green chiles, drained
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, divided
Toppings (Optional):
- Sliced green onion
- Chopped cilantro
- Chopped avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped grape tomatoes
- Queso fresco
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Mix the Bean Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, Greek yogurt, green chiles, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed. - Add the Cheese
Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheese into the bean mixture. - Spread and Layer
Spread the bean mixture evenly into an 8×8-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. - Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Add Toppings
Remove from the oven and add your choice of toppings, such as green onions, cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, tomatoes, and queso fresco. - Serve
Serve the dip warm with tortilla chips for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8
Variations
- Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
- Meaty Addition: Stir in cooked and crumbled chorizo or ground beef for a heartier dip.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese.
- Vegan Option: Replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based yogurt.
- Layered Dip: Turn it into a layered dip by adding guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo on top.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may change when thawed.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade refried beans?
Absolutely! Homemade refried beans work perfectly and add a personal touch.
2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip without baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
3. How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by using mild or hot salsa and adjusting the amount of chili powder and jalapeños.
4. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream is a great alternative for a similar creamy texture.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Add finely chopped bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra texture and flavor.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a spicy Pepper Jack cheese work well.
7. Can this dip be served cold?
While it’s best served warm, it can be enjoyed cold if stored properly.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish for bigger gatherings.
9. What can I use instead of tortilla chips?
Try pita chips, veggie sticks, or even crackers as dippers.
10. Is this dip freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy ingredients, which may separate when thawed.
Conclusion
Warm Bean Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer that’s incredibly easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game, or simply craving a tasty snack, this dip is a guaranteed hit. Try it with your favorite toppings and dippers, and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and spice!
Print
Warm Bean Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Warm Bean Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy appetizer made with refried beans, Greek yogurt, and flavorful spices. Topped with melted cheese and fresh garnishes, this dip is perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering. Serve with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing dish!
Ingredients
- 16 oz refried beans (canned or homemade)
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 4 oz can diced mild green chiles, drained
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, divided
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced green onion
- Chopped cilantro
- Chopped avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped grape tomatoes
- Queso fresco
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Dip Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine refried beans, Greek yogurt, green chiles, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese into the bean mixture.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread the bean mixture evenly into an 8×8-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Toppings:
- Remove from the oven and top with sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, and queso fresco.
- Serve:
- Serve the warm dip with tortilla chips and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Substitutions: Replace Greek yogurt with sour cream for a richer texture or use dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
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