Dessert

Cheesy Refried Bean Dip Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan March 20, 2026March 20, 2026

Introduction

This Cheesy Refried Bean Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or any casual gathering. Creamy, flavorful, and topped with melted cheese, it pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips.

A close-up image shows a woman's hand holding a single round tortilla chip scoop filled with melted layers of creamy beige refried beans and gooey yellow and white melted cheese, topped with small bright red tomato pieces and a few green cilantro leaves. The chip has a slightly rough texture and small air pockets. More scoops with the same layers and toppings are visible in the background, all resting on a base layer of melted cheese, beans, and diced tomatoes spread thickly on a white marbled surface. The colors are warm with a mix of red, yellow, green, and creamy beige. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

28 ounces canned refried beans
1 cup sour cream (room temperature)

½ block cream cheese (softened, 4 ounces)
4 tablespoons melted butter

1 ounce taco seasoning
½ cup salsa

8 ounces cheddar-jack cheese (shredded and divided)
1 can Rotel (drained)
¼ cup cilantro (chopped)

Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream and softened cream cheese. Use a hand mixer to blend them until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the refried beans, melted butter, taco seasoning, salsa, and half of the shredded cheese to the bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Spread the bean mixture evenly into a large cast-iron skillet or a 9×9-inch baking pan.
Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, then bake in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges.

Step 6: Remove from the oven and top with the drained Rotel and chopped cilantro. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Tips & Variations

Use your favorite type of cheese or a blend for different flavors, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some heat.
For extra spice, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before baking.

To keep the dip warm during a party, bake it in a slow cooker set on low after the initial oven time.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier version.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk while reheating helps maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

A close-up of a black cast iron skillet filled with a creamy, thick layer of light brown refried beans mixed with melted yellow and white cheese creating uneven pockets, scattered with small red tomato chunks and green herbs. A single white tortilla chip is partially dipped in the beans near the top right side, and a thin golden spoon is swirling in the center, creating a swirl pattern in the texture. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface with parts of white tortilla chips around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated before baking. Just add the toppings and bake when ready to serve.

Can I use homemade refried beans?

Absolutely! Homemade refried beans work great and add fresh flavor. Just ensure they are well mashed for the smoothest texture.