WARM BEAN DIP

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy dip fresh from the oven. Whether you’re hosting a lively game day gathering, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or just having friends over, this Warm Bean Dip is a guaranteed hit. With layers of melted cheese and a blend of flavorful spices, it’s a dish that will have everyone reaching for more tortilla chips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Warm Bean Dip is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a breeze to prepare.
• Cheesy Delight: The gooey cheese makes it irresistible.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, be it a party or a cozy night in.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• 8×8-inch or 2-quart baking dish
• Oven

Ingredients

• 16 oz refried beans (can use canned beans)
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 4 oz can diced mild green chiles, drained
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, divided
• Toppings: sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, chopped avocado, sliced jalapeños, chopped grape tomatoes, queso fresco
• Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the refried beans, Greek yogurt, green chiles, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
3. Spread the bean mixture into an 8×8-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven.
5. Top the bean dip with your choice of sliced green onion, cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, and queso fresco.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Tips for Success

• Consistency Matters: Make sure the refried beans are well-mixed with the other ingredients for a smooth dip.
• Cheese Choices: Use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works beautifully.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Spice It Up: Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dip ahead of time and bake just before serving.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 114 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 430mg
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking it.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream is a perfect substitute if you prefer its tangy flavor.

Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dip is vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

This Warm Bean Dip is a delightful addition to any gathering, offering a burst of flavor and warmth that’s hard to resist. Try it out and see how quickly it disappears! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative variations you try with this recipe. Enjoy your dipping adventure!