Warm Bean Dip

Ingredients:

1 8-ounce package cream cheese
2 16-ounce cans of refried beans
1 cup sour cream
1 taco seasoning packet (mild or hot)
1 can (7 ounces) chopped green chiles
1/8-1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1 jalapeno, thinly sliced

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Prepare the Creamy Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, refried beans, sour cream, taco seasoning packet, chopped green chiles, and ground cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Layer the Dip:
- Spread the bean mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
Add the Cheesy Topping:
- Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses evenly over the bean mixture, covering it completely.
Bake Until Bubbly:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dip from the oven and garnish with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and thinly sliced jalapeno, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

Make It Spicy: Adjust the level of heat in the dip by using either mild or hot taco seasoning and adjusting the amount of ground cayenne pepper to taste.
Add Protein: For added protein, consider adding cooked and crumbled ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken to the bean mixture before baking.
Customize the Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding diced avocado, sliced black olives, or a dollop of guacamole or salsa for extra flavor and texture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto-Friendly Option: To make this dip keto-friendly, omit the refried beans and use a combination of cream cheese and sour cream as the base. Serve with low-carb dippers such as pork rinds or sliced veggies.
Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of beans in the recipe to lower the carb content of the dip. You can also serve it with low-carb tortilla chips or celery sticks for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the bean mixture and assemble the dip in the baking dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add the cheese topping just before baking for the best results.

Q: Can I freeze leftover bean dip? A: While you can freeze leftover dip, the texture may change slightly upon thawing, as dairy-based dips can sometimes become grainy. If you do choose to freeze it, transfer the cooled dip to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.

Q: Can I customize the toppings? A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the toppings and add your favorite ingredients such as diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.

With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and customizable toppings, this Warm Bean Dip is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, game night, or casual get-together, this easy-to-make appetizer is sure to impress. So grab your chips and get ready to dig into a bowl of cheesy goodness that will keep everyone coming back for more!