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Delicious cheesy bean dip served in a bowl with chips for dipping

Cheesy Bean Dip

Warm, cheesy, and ridiculously easy, this Cheesy Bean Dip is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and game-day spreads. A comforting classic that everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1 can (16 oz) refried beans (or 2 cups homemade)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for tang)
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on your family)
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel-style diced tomatoes & green chiles, drained (optional) Use for extra flavor
  • 1/2 cup canned diced green chiles, drained (optional)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz) or 2 teaspoons homemade taco spice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Plus 1 cup for topping (sharp works great)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions Save a few for garnish
  • 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for skillet step, optional)
  • to taste Fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeño for garnish (optional)
Serving Suggestions
  • to serve Tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced veggies

Method
 

Preheat and prep
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re short on time, this dip can also be warmed in a slow cooker or on the stovetop in a skillet.
Soften and mix the base
  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in the refried beans, salsa, drained Rotel, green chiles (if using), minced garlic, and taco seasoning. Mix well so the flavors are evenly distributed.
Add cheese and build layers
  1. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar and the chopped green onions. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar evenly over it.
Bake until bubbly
  1. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden. If you prefer a crisp top, broil for 1–2 minutes—keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Garnish and serve
  1. Remove from oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra green onions, cilantro, or sliced jalapeños. Serve warm with tortilla chips, warm pita, or crunchy veggies.

Notes

Make it a meal by stirring in shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein. This dip reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.