1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Mix the Cream Layer:
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Set aside.
3. Layer the Beans:
Spoon refried beans evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread gently with a spatula.
4. Add Green Chiles and Seasoning:
Stir diced green chiles into the cream cheese mixture along with taco seasoning, salt, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Mix until fully combined.
5. Layer and Top with Cheese:
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the refried beans layer. Sprinkle 2 cups of the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly on top.
6. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining 2 cups of cheese and sliced scallions. Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Serving and Storage:
Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dip can also be prepared a day ahead, assembled, and baked just before serving.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream mixture.
- Try layering in cooked chorizo or ground beef for a heartier version.
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for added color and kick.
Conclusion:
Texas Trash Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines layers of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful ingredients. Easy to make, fully customizable, and perfect for parties, it’s a must-have recipe for your next gathering.
FAQ:
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the day before and store in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze Texas Trash Dip?
It’s not recommended to freeze after baking as the texture of the cheese and beans may change. You can freeze the unbaked layers separately, then bake fresh.
Can I use low-fat or reduced-fat ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, or cheese blends, but it may slightly affect creaminess and flavor.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, or diced avocado make excellent additions.