Texas Trash Dip
A warm, gooey, and incredibly addictive dip loaded with seasoned refried beans, creamy cheese, and savory ground beef. Baked until bubbly and perfect for game day or any party, it's a Tex-Mex classic that disappears fast.
For 8 servings
8 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or a similar 2.5-quart casserole dish.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the salt and pepper for 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain the excess grease thoroughly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Reduce the heat to medium, return the skillet to the stove, and stir in the taco seasoning and water. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and no lumps remain.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Add the refried beans, 2 cups of the shredded cheese, and the cooked beef mixture to the cream cheese base. Stir with a spatula until everything is evenly combined.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Transfer the dip mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
- 7
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top
- a.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot throughout and the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges.
- 8
Let the dip cool for 5-10 minutes before serving
- a.Garnish with sliced green onions and pickled jalapeños. Serve warm with sturdy tortilla chips, corn chips, or vegetable sticks.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest base, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing.
- 2Don't skip draining the grease from the beef. This is crucial for preventing a greasy dip.
- 3Use freshly shredded cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make the dip slightly grainy.
- 4This dip can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- 5Serve with sturdy dippers like corn chips (e.g., Fritos Scoops), thick tortilla chips, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat Swap
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or spicy chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Veggie BoostVeggie Boost
Stir in 1 cup of drained canned corn, black beans, or a 4-oz can of diced green chiles along with the refried beans for extra texture and flavor.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
For extra heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a finely diced fresh jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) to the beef along with the taco seasoning.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder to the taco seasoning for a smoky depth of flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The combination of ground beef and refried beans provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Source of Calcium
With three types of dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, and Mexican cheese blend), this dip is a good source of calcium, a mineral vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving (about 1/2 cup) of this Texas Trash Dip contains approximately 550 calories, primarily from the cheese, ground beef, and cream cheese. It's best enjoyed as an occasional treat.