Texas Trash Bean Dip
A warm, cheesy, and incredibly addictive layered dip perfect for game day or any party. This Tex-Mex classic combines refried beans, cream cheese, and savory seasonings, all baked under a blanket of perfectly melted cheese.
For 8 servings
8 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate or a similar 2-quart shallow baking dish.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Use an electric mixer on low speed or a sturdy spatula to mix until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- 3
Add the refried beans to the cream cheese mixture
- a.Fold everything together until it is uniform in color and texture.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Spread the bean mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top, ensuring it covers the entire surface from edge to edge.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.
- 7
Carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes
- a.This allows it to set slightly and prevents burns.
- 8
Garnish the top with sliced pickled jalapeños, green onions, and black olives
- a.Serve immediately with sturdy tortilla chips for dipping.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest texture, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream. Low-fat versions can become watery when baked.
- 2Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature. This is key to preventing lumps and achieving a smooth base.
- 3Shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting as smoothly.
- 4This dip is thick and hearty, so serve it with sturdy tortilla chips, Fritos Scoops, or vegetable sticks that won't break.
- 5To make ahead, assemble the dip completely (without toppings), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- 6For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of 1/2 lb of cooked and seasoned ground beef or chorizo between the bean mixture and the cheese.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meaty Version
Add a layer of 1/2 lb of cooked ground beef or chorizo, seasoned with taco seasoning, on top of the bean mixture before adding the cheese.
Extra SpicyExtra Spicy
Mix a 4-oz can of diced green chiles (drained) or 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into the bean base for an extra kick.
Different CheesesDifferent Cheeses
Swap the Mexican blend for an equal amount of shredded Pepper Jack for more heat, or sharp cheddar for a tangier flavor.
Loaded DipLoaded Dip
After baking, top with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole, and some fresh diced tomatoes or cilantro.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Fiber
The refried beans in this dip are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.
Provides Protein
With both beans and cheese as primary ingredients, this dip offers a good amount of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall body function.
Rich in Calcium
The generous amounts of cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese make this dip a significant source of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
A typical 1/2 cup serving of this dip contains approximately 300-350 calories, primarily from the cheese, cream cheese, and beans. The exact number can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.