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Meaty Texas Trash Dip Recipe

4.8 from 97 reviews

This Meaty Texas Trash Dip is a warm, cheesy, and hearty appetizer perfect for parties, game days, or any casual gathering. Made with seasoned ground beef or turkey, refried beans, cream cheese, sour cream, diced green chilies, and a blend of Mexican cheeses, it’s baked or slow-cooked until bubbly and melty, then topped with fresh garnishes for added flavor and crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dip:

  • 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

  1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey 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 to absorb flavors, then remove from heat.
  2. Mix the Base: 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 thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Add the Meat and Cheese: Fold the seasoned cooked meat into the bean mixture. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese blend until evenly incorporated.
  4. Bake or Slow Cook the Dip:
    Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the dip mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
    Slow Cooker Method: Transfer the dip mixture to a slow cooker. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1 hour until the dip is warm and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven or slow cooker. Top with optional garnishes such as chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. Serve warm with Tostitos, tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a richer, creamier dip.
  • Shred your own cheese if possible; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
  • Do not overbake the dip to avoid drying it out; it should be hot and bubbly.
  • Be sure to season the meat well with taco seasoning to enhance flavor.
  • Avoid low-fat dairy products to prevent the dip from becoming too runny or less creamy.
  • Do not overcook in the slow cooker as the cheese may separate if left too long.

Keywords: Texas Trash Dip, cheesy dip, party appetizer, taco dip, game day snack, baked dip, slow cooker dip, creamy dip, ground beef dip, Mexican cheese blend