Championship Bean Dip

The first time I brought this bean dip to a Super Bowl party, my friend Sarah actually cornered me in the kitchen demanding the recipe. She said she'd been eating mediocre bean dip her entire life and had no idea it could taste like this. Now it's the only thing anyone asks me to bring to gatherings, and honestly? I'm fine with that.

Last summer, my neighbor caught the incredible smell wafting through our shared wall and knocked on my door with a bag of chips, asking what I was making. We ended up sitting on my back porch eating this dip straight from the baking dish while the sun went down, and now it's become our little tradition whenever we both have free evenings.

Ingredients

• Refried beans: The foundation of the dip, providing creamy texture and protein that makes this substantial enough to be more than just a party appetizer
• Sour cream: Adds tang and lightness that cuts through the richness of the cheeses
• Cream cheese: The secret ingredient that makes this dip velvety smooth rather than heavy or grainy
• Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses: Using both creates the perfect balance of sharp flavor and melty goodness
• Green chilies and salsa: Provide subtle heat and brightness that keeps the dip from feeling too heavy
• Onion powder, garlic powder, and cumin: The spice trifecta that gives this dip its signature flavor profile
• Chili powder and smoked paprika: Add depth and a gentle warmth without making it spicy
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together
• Fresh toppings: Green onions, cilantro, and tomato add color and a fresh finish to cut through the richness

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Set it to 350°F so it's ready when you are, and grab your 9x13 baking dish

Make the creamy base:

In a large bowl, mix the refried beans, sour cream, and softened cream cheese until completely smooth

Add all the flavor:

Stir in half the cheeses, both types of chilies, all the spices, and the salsa until everything is well combined

Spread it out:

Transfer the mixture to your baking dish and spread it evenly

Top with cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack over the top for that gorgeous golden crust

Bake until bubbly:

Pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes, until everything is hot and the cheese is melted and slightly browned

Let it rest:

Give it 5 minutes to cool slightly so it's easier to scoop

Add the finishing touches:

Sprinkle with fresh green onions, cilantro, and diced tomato if you're feeling fancy

Serve it up:

Set it out with tortilla chips, pita chips, or fresh veggies and watch it disappear

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This dip has become my go-to for everything from casual weeknight dinners to big holiday parties. There's something about the way people gather around a warm, bubbling dish that breaks the ice better than any conversation starter could.

Make It Ahead

You can assemble this dip up to two days before baking, which makes party prep so much easier. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator, then add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

While tortilla chips are classic, try serving this with warm naan bread, pita wedges, or even raw vegetables like bell peppers and cucumber rounds for lighter options. It's also fantastic wrapped in warm flour tortillas as quick bean burritos.

Perfect Pairings

This dip pairs beautifully with ice-cold beer, especially light lagers that won't compete with the spices. Margaritas work wonderfully too, the lime and salt complementing the creamy richness perfectly.

• Set out small bowls of extra salsa and hot sauce on the side so guests can customize their heat level
• Keep some warm tortillas wrapped in foil in the oven at 200°F so they're ready when the dip comes out
• Double the recipe for large crowds, it never goes to waste

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Whether it's game day, a birthday, or just Tuesday night, this bean dip has a way of making everything feel like a celebration. Gather your favorite people and dig in.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to two days in advance and bake it just before serving for best freshness.

→ What cheeses are used in this bean dip?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses provide a rich, creamy texture and mild flavor balance.

→ How can I add more heat to this dish?

For extra spice, include finely chopped jalapeños or opt for a hot salsa variety instead of mild or medium.

→ Is it possible to include meat in the bean mixture?

Yes, cooked ground beef, chorizo, or crumbled bacon can be folded in to add a meaty twist.

→ What are good serving options for this dip?

This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, pita chips, or fresh vegetable slices for dipping.