Pin It This dish blends refried beans with sharp cheddar cheese and aromatic spices to create a creamy, rich dip that’s baked until bubbly and golden. The smooth texture is enhanced by ingredients like sour cream, cream cheese, red onion, garlic, and optional jalapeño for a mild kick. Once baked, it’s garnished with fresh cilantro, diced tomato, and green onions to add brightness and color. Perfect as a warm starter or snack to share with guests, it pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
The Super Bowl gathering was already running late when I realized I had forgotten to plan an appetizer. I raided the pantry, found a lonely can of refried beans and some cheese that needed using, and threw together what has since become the most requested dish at every party I host.
My sister-in-law actually wrote down the recipe on a napkin after third helpings one night. Now that napkin lives taped inside her kitchen cabinet, and she makes it for her book club meetings every month.
Ingredients
- Refried beans: The foundation of the dish, pinto beans add a slightly sweeter note while black beans bring earthiness, either works beautifully here
- Sour cream and cream cheese: This duo creates the velvety texture that makes the dip feel luxurious rather than heavy
- Red onion and garlic: These aromatics provide the savory backbone that balances the richness of the dairy
- Spice blend: Cumin and chili powder evoke classic Tex-Mex flavors while smoked paprika adds that subtle campfire depth
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The sharper the better, it cuts through the creamy elements and adds that perfect salty finish
Instructions
- Heat things up:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F while you gather your ingredients, having everything ready makes the process feel effortless
- Create the base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, sour cream, and cream cheese until completely smooth
- Add flavor and texture:
- Stir in the red onion, garlic, jalapeño if you like heat, and all those wonderful spices until everything is well incorporated
- Cheese it up:
- Fold in one cup of the shredded cheddar, reserving the rest for that gorgeous golden topping
- Prepare for baking:
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish or pie plate, spreading it evenly
- Add the crown:
- Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar across the top like you are tucking it in for a cozy nap
- Bake to perfection:
- Let it bake for 18 to 20 minutes until you see bubbles around the edges and the cheese has melted into that irresistible gooey state
- The waiting game:
- Give it 3 to 5 minutes to cool slightly, this brief patience makes all the difference for the perfect dipping consistency
- Final touches:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomato, and green onions if you want that pop of color and freshness
Pin It What started as a desperate pantry raid has transformed into the dish that signals celebration. Friends have actually arrived at my door with bags of chips specifically hoping it is on the menu.
Make It Your Own
Monterey Jack creates an even meltier experience if you prefer gooey over sharp. A Mexican cheese blend brings those authentic restaurant vibes.
Serving Suggestions
Bell pepper strips add freshness and crunch while keeping things lighter. Pita chips feel more substantial than tortilla chips and hold up well to the thick, warm dip.
Party Perfect Planning
This dip reheats beautifully, so you can assemble it a day ahead and bake just before guests arrive. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight.
- Double the recipe for larger crowds, it disappears faster than you expect
- Keep it warm in a slow cooker on low setting for extended gatherings
- Set out a variety of dippers to accommodate different preferences
Pin It There is something deeply satisfying about a dish that brings people together, gathered around a warm bowl of cheesy goodness, chips in hand, conversation flowing as naturally as the dip disappears.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of beans works best?
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Refried pinto or black beans provide a smooth, creamy base and hearty flavor ideal for this dish.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
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Yes, adding jalapeño or extra chili powder increases heat, while omitting them keeps it mild and creamy.
- → How do I get a melty cheese topping?
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Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the dip just before baking to achieve a bubbly, golden crust.
- → What are good serving options?
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Serve warm alongside tortilla chips, veggie sticks, crackers, or pita for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
- → Can this be made ahead?
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Yes, prepare the mixture in advance, refrigerate, then bake just before serving for convenience.
