Introduction

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s warm, cheesy, and full of bold flavors? This Meaty Texas Trash Dip combines savory ground beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese for the perfect party snack. It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit at game days, tailgates, or casual gatherings.

A white ceramic bowl filled with a creamy baked dip showing melted yellow cheese mixed with browned ground beef, topped with small fresh red tomato pieces and green chopped herbs. Around the bowl are yellow tortilla chips standing upright. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
1 (16 oz) can refried beans
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar + Monterey Jack)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Optional Toppings:

Chopped green onions
Sliced jalapeños
Diced tomatoes
Fresh cilantro
Extra shredded cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, softened cream cheese, sour cream, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Fold the seasoned beef into the bean mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese and mix well.
Step 4: Choose your cooking method:
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the dip mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Slow Cooker Method: Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker, sprinkle with cheese, and cook on low for 2–3 hours or on high for 1 hour until warm and melted.
Step 5: Garnish with chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. Serve warm with Tostitos, tortilla chips, or crackers.

Tips & Variations

Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream to make the dip extra creamy.
Shred your own cheese for a smoother texture; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect creaminess.
Don’t overbake to keep the dip hot and bubbly without drying it out.
For a spicier dip, add extra jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper.
Try swapping the ground beef for spicy chorizo or ground sausage for a Southern twist.
Layer with lettuce, diced tomatoes, and guacamole to create a Texas Taco Dip Platter.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat gently in the microwave in 30-second intervals or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a cheesy beef dip served in a white ceramic round bowl with ridged edges, filled to the top. The dip has a melted golden cheese layer on the surface with browned ground beef mixed in, scattered with small chopped green herbs and diced bright red tomatoes on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by triangular yellow corn tortilla chips arranged loosely 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 assemble the dip in the baking dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well and keeps the dip flavorful.