Super Bowl Appetizer Bean and Cheese Dip

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Bean and Cheese Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) refried beans; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup salsa; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 cup sliced green onions; Tortilla chips for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love serving this Super Bowl Appetizer Bean and Cheese Dip at my game-day gatherings. It's packed with flavor and is incredibly easy to make, which means I can spend more time enjoying the game with friends and less time in the kitchen. The creamy cheese and hearty beans create a wonderful texture, and when you pair it with crispy tortilla chips, it’s pure bliss. Everyone at the party always raves about it, making it my go-to appetizer for any occasion.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-10T10:55:38.527Z

When I first made this dip, I wanted something that would impress my friends without taking too much effort. After several attempts to balance flavors and textures, I finally landed on the perfect combination. The rich creaminess of the cheese melds beautifully with the spiced beans, creating a dip that’s both satisfying and delicious.

One tip I discovered is to let the dip sit for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the overall taste. Now, it’s always a hit during Super Bowl parties!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and indulgent with layers of flavor
Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for parties
Crowd-pleaser that goes perfectly with chips or veggies

      

Why the Ingredients Matter

Each ingredient in this dip plays a crucial role in building its creamy and flavorful profile. The refried beans not only add substance but also lend a rich, earthy taste. For an extra kick, you can opt for spicy refried beans, which would enhance the flavor without much effort. Sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that balances the other ingredients, while the cheddar cheese provides both flavor and an irresistibly gooey texture. Using a good quality cheddar can elevate your dip significantly, offering a sharper taste.

The salsa you choose will influence the overall taste and heat level of the dip. I recommend using a fresh salsa that’s packed with tomatoes and herbs for a fresher flavor. If you prefer a thicker dip, look for salsas labeled as 'chunky' or 'thick'. Fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes or jalapeños can be added to the mixture for a more personalized touch.

Tips for Perfecting Your Dip

To achieve the ideal texture, make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl. This ensures an even distribution of flavors, preventing any dry spots while baking. If you're in a time crunch, you can easily prepare this dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking, to promote even heating.

Garnishing with green onions adds both a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor. If you're a fan of more intense flavors, consider adding chopped cilantro or diced avocado as additional toppings just before serving. Both add freshness and complement the richness of the cheese and beans beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dip:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) refried beans
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup salsa
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup sliced green onions
Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious dip:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking of the dip.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, salsa, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well-blended.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake the Dip

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the dip mixture before baking.

Variations and Add-Ons

Feel free to customize your dip with additional ingredients. For example, adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken can turn this appetizer into a heartier dish. You can also experiment with cheese varieties; a combination of mozzarella and pepper jack can introduce delightful textures and flavors. If you want a more complex taste, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder will give the dip a subtle depth without overpowering the original flavors.

For a vegetarian version, replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative or Greek yogurt. This maintains creaminess while accommodating dietary restrictions. Additionally, you can swap traditional tortilla chips for baked varieties or crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots and celery for a healthier twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftover dip is simple. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should keep well for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. If you're short on time, you can microwave individual servings for quick enjoyment; just be careful not to overheat, as it can become rubbery.

If you're thinking ahead, you can assemble the dip and freeze it before baking. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the baking instructions. This is a real time-saver, especially during busy game days or gatherings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you want a healthier option.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can this dip be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the dip before baking. Thaw it in the fridge and then bake it as directed.