Super Bowl Appetizer Bean and Cheese Dip

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Bean and Cheese Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) refried beans; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 cup diced green onions; Tortilla chips for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love hosting friends for the Super Bowl, and this Bean and Cheese Dip is always a hit! It's incredibly easy to whip up, flavorful, and perfect for dipping. I particularly enjoy how the creamy cheese blends seamlessly with the spiced beans, making for a delightful experience with every scoop. You can adjust the spice level based on your preference, making it a versatile dish for everyone. Serve it warm with crispy tortilla chips, and it will surely be the centerpiece of your snack table!

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:28:12.744Z

When I first made this dip for a game night, I was amazed at how quickly it disappeared. I experimented with various spices and found that adding a touch of cumin and chili powder really brings out the flavor without overwhelming the dish. The balance of creaminess from the cheese and the hearty beans makes it not just delicious but satisfying too.

This dip is always a crowd-pleaser. I've learned to prepare it in advance, which saves time on game day. Serve it with an assortment of chips and veggies, and don’t forget to keep it warm in a slow cooker, so it stays gooey and enjoyable!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Easily customizable with your favorite spices and toppings
Quick and uncomplicated, perfect for game day

      

Flavorful Combinations

The combination of refried beans and sour cream creates a base that is both rich and creamy. Refried beans contribute a hearty texture and a profound depth of flavor, thanks to their seasoning and the way they carry spices like cumin and chili powder. The sour cream adds a tangy element that balances out the spices and cheese, ensuring that each bite is satisfying without being overwhelmingly heavy.

The spices, namely ground cumin and chili powder, play a crucial role in elevating this dish. Cumin lends a warm, earthy flavor that enhances the beans, while chili powder imparts a gentle heat, which you can adjust according to your taste. To spice things up further, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the mixing bowl.

Perfecting the Bake

When baking your Bean and Cheese Dip, it's essential to monitor the end of the cooking time closely. You want to pull it out when the cheese is completely melted and starts to bubble but hasn’t overcooked to the point of browning. This will ensure a smooth, gooey texture that clings delightfully to your tortilla chips. A good visual cue is the cheese become glossy and the dip has a slight jiggle in the center.

If you prefer a slightly crispy top, consider broiling the dip for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, as broilers can vary in intensity. This extra step transforms the cheese into a golden, slightly crusty layer that adds another dimension of texture to the dip.

Ingredients

Gather all the delicious ingredients below to make this fantastic dip.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) refried beans
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 cup diced green onions
Tortilla chips for serving

These ingredients work together beautifully to create a delicious dip that everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dip.

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, sour cream, cumin, and chili powder until well mixed.

Layer Ingredients

Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by the diced green onions.

Bake the Dip

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips. Enjoy!

That's it! Your dip is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

To make this dip even more flavorful, try adding diced jalapeños or fresh cilantro on top before serving. You can also mix in some black olives for extra texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a large gathering, this dip can be made in advance. Prepare the dip up until the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through completely.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If you're short on time, you can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may not be as creamy as with oven reheating.

Variations to Try

This Bean and Cheese Dip is incredibly versatile. For an added twist, consider incorporating some cooked chorizo or ground beef into the mixture for a heartier option. Simply brown the meat in a skillet before adding it to the bean mixture, and continue with the recipe as directed, making it even more filling for your guests.

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use black beans instead of refried beans. This not only accommodates dietary restrictions but also adds a unique flavor and appearance. You can also layer in diced tomatoes or black olives before baking for a colorful presentation and extra flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bean and cheese mixture a day in advance and then bake it just before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as all the ingredients used are plant-based or dairy.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips are classic! You can also use veggie sticks, pita chips, or even spread it on sandwiches.

→ How can I spice it up?

Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bean mixture for an extra kick.