Spicy Refried Bean Dip

Name: Spicy Refried Bean Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 16-oz can refried beans; 1 cup shredded pepper Jack cheese (divided); 2 oz cream cheese (softened); 2 jalapeños (minced with seeds); 1 tablespoon hot sauce (use your favorite); ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; tortilla chips; Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, chopped tomatoes, queso fresco, or green onions

This Spicy Bean Dip is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with jalapeños, Pepper Jack cheese, and hot sauce. It takes just 10 minutes to mix and 20 to bake. It's perfect for parties or an office potluck.

Spicy Refried Bean Dip Finished with chips and pico de Gallo

Recipe Overview

Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep + 20 minutes bake time)

Ingredients: Refried beans, Pepper Jack cheese, cream cheese, jalapeños, hot sauce, spices, and chips.

Ease: Super easy! Just mix and bake.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Refried Beans: Use a 16-oz can of refried beans. You can swap for black refried beans for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and helps everything melt together. Make sure it's softened so it blends smoothly.
Jalapeños: Mince finely for an even heat. Remove the seeds if you want it milder, or leave them in for more spice.
Hot Sauce: Use your favorite. I like using Valentina. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to your heat preference.
Cheese: Pepper Jack adds spice and creaminess, but you can substitute Monterey Jack for a milder dip.
Spices: Smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder add depth and smoky flavor.
Toppings: Go all out with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, tomatoes, queso fresco, or green onions.
Chips: Serve with tortilla chips or Frito scoops.

Full ingredient list with quantities in the recipe card below

How to Make Spicy Refried Bean Dip

Spicy Refried Bean Dip ready to be cooked

Mix

In a large bowl, stir together the refried beans, cream cheese, ½ the Pepper Jack cheese, jalapeños, hot sauce, and seasonings. Spread into an 8-inch cast-iron skillet, then top with the remaining cheese.

Spicy Refried Bean Dip with melted cheese in cast iron

Bake & Serve

Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes, then top with cilantro, green onions, or diced tomatoes, and serve warm with chips.

Tips

Soften the Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese won't mix smoothly and can make the dip lumpy. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds to soften.

Make Ahead: Mix everything the night before so it's ready to bake before your party.

Common Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! Mix everything together, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake at 350F for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

You can! Add all the ingredients to a small slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until melted and smooth.

Is this dip spicy?

It has a medium kick. For less heat, remove jalapeño seeds or use mild hot sauce. For more heat, add extra hot sauce or a dash of cayenne.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely! Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend all melt nicely and can make the dip milder or sharper, depending on your preference.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and creamy again. Personally, I love adding a dollop to my scrambled eggs with a few crushed tortilla chips for a lazy Migas.

Can I Microwave this?

Yes! Add the bean dip to a microwave-safe bowl (without the cheese topping). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Then sprinkle the cheese on top and microwave for an additional 30 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tried this recipe? Let everyone know how it turned out! Your feedback and tips help others decide if they should make it.