Texas Trash Dip

We're big fans of a good bean dip—and Texas trash dip is the best one we've had yet. The creaminess from the sour cream and cream cheese add a velvety texture to the starchy canned refried beans, while the chiles, taco seasoning, and additional spices add a much needed kick. This dip packs a punch, is super flavorful, and will probably be the first thing to disappear at your party.

Learn how to make Texas trash dip. Serve with tortilla chips or corn chips, or offer a few other dippers like pretzel chips, carrots, or radish slices so guests can pick their favorite. Extra-crunchy foods work nicely with this smooth and creamy dip.

Why Is It Called Texas Trash Dip?

While the name might not be all that appetizing, we can assure you that this dip certainly is. The term "trash" is a playful reference to the diverse ingredients added into the mix, including refried beans, sour cream, shredded Mexican blend cheese, and seasonings, all thrown together into a baking dish.

"Texas" adds a regional identity to the dish, along with the association that this dip is hearty, bold, and great for feeding a crowd. If you're serving this dip to a crowd that's a bit more unforgiving, you can also call it by its other name: warm bean dip.

Ingredients for Texas Trash Dip

A hearty combination of refried beans, sour cream, cream cheese, and a bold mix of seasonings, this dip is topped with shredded Mexican cheese for a cheesy, indulgent dip you'll want to make for every party. To make Texas trash dip, you'll need:

• Cooking spray: To keep the dip from sticking to the dish.
• Cream cheese: A thick and creamy base for the dip.
• Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cream cheese.
• Canned refried beans: Adds a hearty, velvety texture and earthy flavor.
• Green chiles: For a mild heat and subtle smoky flavor.
• Taco seasoning: A mix of classic Tex-Mex flavors, including chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and other spices in the mix.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper: Together these spices add a smoky, savory, and spicy depth to the dip.
• Shredded Mexican blend cheese: Adds a melty, cheesy flavor and texture to the dip.
• Scallions: Adds a bright, fresh touch to the dish.
• Tortilla chips: For serving.
  

How To Make Texas Trash Dip

This dip couldn't be easier to prepare. A quick mix and it's ready to top with cheese and bake until bubbly. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare baking dish: Preheat oven, and spray the baking dish.
• Step 2. Soften cream cheese: Microwave cream cheese and sour cream until cream cheese is softened. Whisk to combine.
• Step 3. Make bean mixture: Stir in beans, seasonings, and some cheese.
• Step 4. Assemble dish: Spread evenly into prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
• Step 5. Bake dip: Bake until cheese is melted. Top with scallions and serve with tortilla chips. 

Texas Trash Dip Variations

If you're looking to add even more flavor and visual appeal to this dish, consider adding or topping the dish with a variety of additions:

• Meat: Cooked chorizo, ground beef, or leftover taco meat can turn this dip into a main course.
• Vegetables: Sweet corn or sliced jalapeños can be added for color, flavor, and texture.
• Taco toppings: Top the baked dip with fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, salsa, black olives, ripe avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for a decadent touch.
• Hot things: Or to amp up the heat, serve with hot sauce or add extra cayenne pepper or minced hot peppers into the mix.

Can I Make Texas Trash Dip Ahead?

This dip can be prepared ahead and baked right before serving so it's bubbling and hot when guests arrive. Prepare as directed, assembling and topping with cheese in an oven-safe dish. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to two days.

When ready to serve, uncover and let the dip stand at room temperature while the oven preheats. Bake as directed, covering with foil if needed to prevent excess browning, until hot throughout. Top with scallions, and serve with tortilla chips.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Texas Trash Dip

Once cool, wrap leftover dip or transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to three months in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Thaw overnight if frozen before reheating.

Let the dip stand at room temperature while the oven preheats, and reheat, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until hot throughout. You can also reheat small portions in the microwave.

What To Serve With Texas Trash Dip

You can never have too many crunchy dippers when it comes to hearty dips like this one. Serve Texas trash dip with tortilla chips as directed, or with corn chips, pita chips, crackers, or other favorites. You can also pair with pretzels, carrot sticks, sliced radishes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and more. Offer even more variety by serving alongside guacamole, salsa, or queso dip.

More Hearty Dip Recipes You'll Love

If you're getting ready to host your next event and need a variety of appetizers to get the party started, look no further than these crowd-pleasing recipes:

• Sweet Onion and Bacon Dip
• Collard Dip
• Rotel Sausage Dip
• Baked BLT Dip
• Warm Cheese-and-Spicy Pecan Dip
• Hot Crab-and-Artichoke Dip
• Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip
  
• Warm Spinach-Sweet Onion Dip with Country Ham
• Creamy Avocado Dip
• Pepper-Pepper Cheese Dip

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.