If you are craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible creaminess, look no further than the Creamy Baked Refried Bean Dip with Cheese and Green Chiles Recipe. This beloved dish combines smooth refried beans with melty Mexican cheese, zesty green chiles, and a perfect blend of spices, all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, family night, or just want a satisfying snack, this dip delivers comforting warmth and a flavor kick that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to gather a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch of flavor and texture. Each component plays a specific role—from creamy richness to spicy brightness—that makes this dip stand out in the best way.
- Nonstick spray: Essential for greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- 4 cups homemade or canned refried beans: The creamy base that brings hearty texture and authentic taste.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and extra creaminess that balances the spices perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided: Provides that gooey, melted cheesiness that everyone loves.
- 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles: Infuses a gentle heat and fresh flavor that brightens every bite.
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder: Delivers smoky warmth and depth to the overall spice profile.
- ½ teaspoon fine salt: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors harmoniously.
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a subtle nutty undertone.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces a hint of herbal brightness to the mix.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky finish and lovely color.
- Optional toppings: Sliced jalapenos, green onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, grape tomatoes, crumbled cotija cheese, and avocado add exciting texture and freshness.
How to Make Creamy Baked Refried Bean Dip with Cheese and Green Chiles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly mist a 9×9-inch baking dish or any 2 ½ quart casserole dish with nonstick spray. This simple step ensures that your dip won’t stick to the sides and makes cleanup effortless after the deliciousness is devoured.
Step 2: Mix the Dip Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the refried beans, sour cream, half of the shredded Mexican blend cheese, diced green chiles, chili powder, salt, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano. Stir everything together until you get a smooth, well-incorporated mixture bursting with vibrant color and spices. This blend is the heart of your dish, layering creamy with zesty flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Dip
Spread the refried bean mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish using a spatula. Once smooth and level, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly on top. This top layer will melt beautifully, creating a bubbly and golden crust that everybody will adore.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese on top has melted and turned slightly browned. The aromas filling your kitchen at this stage are pure happiness in the making. Baking also allows the spices to mingle and the dip to thicken just right.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Once baked, let the dip cool just slightly so it’s warm and luscious but not too hot to enjoy. Scoop it out alongside your favorite tortilla chips, crunchy veggies, or whatever dippers you love most. This step is where the magic happens as every bite tastes like a celebration.
How to Serve Creamy Baked Refried Bean Dip with Cheese and Green Chiles Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your dip presentation and add fresh pops of flavor by sprinkling on garnishes like thinly sliced jalapenos for an extra spicy kick, bright chopped cilantro for herbal notes, sliced green onions for mild sharpness, or crumbled cotija cheese for a salty bite. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime to lift those flavors even higher!
Side Dishes
This luscious dip pairs wonderfully with classic tortilla chips, but don’t hesitate to serve it with an assortment of crudités such as crisp carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips. For a heartier option, warm pita wedges or soft flour tortillas make excellent vehicles for every cheesy scoop.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Creamy Baked Refried Bean Dip with Cheese and Green Chiles Recipe up a notch by serving it in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a festive touch. Alternatively, layer it in a clear glass dish with alternating beans, cheese, and sour cream for a colorful layered dip. Individual ramekins make for charming, single-serve presentations perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your dip, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 5 days, allowing you to indulge in this creamy goodness more than once without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, this dip freezes beautifully. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain its creamy texture and rich taste.
Reheating
To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F until heated through and bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also use a microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, but baking helps restore that perfect cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use canned refried beans instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Canned refried beans are a convenient choice and work just as well in this Creamy Baked Refried Bean Dip with Cheese and Green Chiles Recipe. Just make sure to choose a good-quality brand for the best flavor.
Is this dip spicy?
The heat level is mild with the green chiles and chili powder, but it is definitely flavorful. You can always adjust the spice by adding more jalapenos or hot sauce if you prefer it spicier.
Can I make this dip vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative and use vegan sour cream. Choose refried beans without lard, and you’ll have a tasty dairy-free version that still delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction.
What are some good alternatives for chips to serve with this dip?
Besides tortilla chips, try pita chips, sliced cucumbers, jicama sticks, or even toasted baguette slices for different textures and healthier options.
Can I add meat to this dip?
Definitely! Ground beef, chorizo, or shredded chicken cooked with taco seasoning can be mixed in to create a heartier version while keeping the creamy base intact.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Baked Refried Bean Dip with Cheese and Green Chiles Recipe quickly became a favorite in my kitchen because it combines comfort and flavor in every bite with so little effort. I truly hope you give it a try and find just as much joy in serving it up at your next gathering or cozy night in. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and keeps smiles wide and appetites satisfied. Happy dipping!
PrintCreamy Baked Refried Bean Dip with Cheese and Green Chiles Recipe
This creamy and flavorful bean dip combines refried beans with sour cream, Mexican cheese, and a blend of spices, baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, it’s easy to prepare and customizable with optional fresh toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 4 cups homemade refried beans or a 31-ounce can of refried beans
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Optional Toppings
- Sliced jalapeno
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Halved cherry or grape tomatoes
- Crumbled cotija cheese
- Diced or sliced avocado
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly mist the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9×9-inch baking dish (or any 2½-quart baking dish) with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Bean Dip: In a large bowl, combine the refried beans, sour cream, half (½ cup) of the shredded Mexican blend cheese, diced green chiles, chili powder, salt, ground cumin, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Using a spatula, spread the bean mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface. Then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly throughout, and the cheese on top is melted and has a lightly browned, golden color.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or your choice of dippers. Add optional toppings like sliced jalapeno, green onions, cilantro, tomatoes, cotija cheese, or avocado to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Store Leftovers: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.
Notes
- You can use homemade or canned refried beans depending on your preference and convenience.
- If you prefer a spicier dip, increase the amount of diced green chiles or add some chopped jalapeno directly into the mix.
- The sour cream adds creaminess; for a lighter version, substitute with plain Greek yogurt.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavor profiles.
- This dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crisp vegetables, or even spread on warm tortillas as a snack.
