Refried Bean Dip (without cream cheese)

Name: Refried Bean Dip (without cream cheese)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces canned refried beans; ⅓ cup sour cream; 4 ounces canned green chiles (drained); ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 6 ounces Colby Jack cheese (shredded)

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This easy refried bean dip is the perfect side kick to any Mexican feast. Made with mostly pantry staples, you can be snacking on this dip in no time.

overhead shot of warm bean dip in white dish.

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Snack attack

When I have a snack craving, chips and dip are my weakness. I reach for this salty snack above all else - like this epic Chips and Dip Snack Board.

But I feel a little less guilty when I indulge in this refried bean dip. Packed with protein, this dip is SO creamy, has tons of flavor, and is served warm for that satisfying vibe.

Grab your favorite dippers - or try these baked tortilla chips - and dig in!

Ingredients

Canned refried beans are most commonly made with pinto beans, which have a buttery, creamy texture that works well in this dip. If preferred, you can use black refried beans.
Canned green chiles - An easy pantry pull, I use fire roasted for extra flavor.
Cheese - Use a good melting cheese like Colby or Monterey Jack. For an extra kick of spice, use Pepper Jack. Grate your own cheese fresh from a block for the best melting quality.
Sour cream - Just ⅓ cup is enough to loosen up the beans and give them a creamy consistency - no cream cheese required. The sour cream adds the right amount of creaminess without being heavy. Low fat works just fine.

Step-by-step instructions

See the recipe card for complete instructions and ingredient amounts.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, combine the beans, sour cream, green chiles, and spices. Fold in the shredded cheese, reserving some for topping.

Transfer the dip to a small baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes. Top with the remaining cheese and bake for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

spread dip in baking dish and bake until warm.

Garnish with your favorite toppings - scallions or chives, tomatoes, avocado, olives, jalapeño, or red onion.

Can I make this on the stove-top?

If you don't want to turn on the oven, no problem! You can heat this dip on the stove top. Add the ingredients to a saucepan and stir to combine. Heat on low until the cheese is melted and the dip is warmed through. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish as desired, and dig in!

Storing and reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This dip reheats well in the microwave.

What do I serve with bean dip?

Tortilla or corn chips
Cucumber slices, carrot and celery sticks
Pita or bagel chips
Pretzels or crackers
Crostini

Ways to enjoy this dip

You can use this dip in anything that you would add refried beans to.

Spread in burritos or on tostadas
Use as a topping for tacos or nachos
Layer in Mexican dip

Faq's

Are refried beans the same as bean dip?

Refried beans are the primary ingredient in bean dip. Sour cream, yogurt, or cream cheese are often added to the refried beans to give them a creamy consistency.

What is the difference between beans and refried beans?

Refried beans are canned beans, most commonly pinto beans, that are cooked in some type of fat - lard or oil - until softened. When soft, they can be smashed into a paste. Onions and spices can be added for seasoning.

Equipment

Mixing bowl | Measuring cups and spoons | Grater | Baking dish

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