Easy, Creamy Bean Dip (No Cream Cheese)

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A good happy hour always includes a snack, and this easy, creamy bean dip is the perfect snack to go along with your afternoon drinks.

Making a creamy bean dip from scratch is super easy, and since it comes together in minutes, you’ll be snacking in no time!

Bean dip isn’t just for game day! I love making this dip for an easy weekend snack or a delicious addition to a taco bar. It often makes an appearance on Taco Tuesdays in our house as a dip for quesadillas, a side to tacos, or to use on tostadas.

What You Need

Refried beans
Sour cream
Cheddar cheese
Salsa
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Cumin
Chili powder

How to Make It

Warm the refried beans in a small pot over medium heat.

Stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin and chili powder.

Reduce heat to low and let the dip simmer on the stove for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve warm.

Tips for Easy, Creamy Bean Dip

Can I use black beans in this?

Absolutely! A can of refried black beans would be a delicious substitute for traditional pinto refried beans.

What can I do with leftover bean dip?

Leftover bean dip works great inside a burrito. I like to combine it with my tomato rice and beans and some extra cheese for an easy vegetarian burrito dinner. You can also use leftover dip on nachos or tostadas or as a dip for quesadillas.

Can I make bean dip ahead of time?

Yes! This dip is an awesome make ahead dip for parties. You can make bean dip up to 48 hours before you’re planning to eat it. Just reheat it in a pot over low heat on the stove or in 20 second increments the microwave. Be sure to stir it often as you reheat the dip.

Can I use low fat sour cream?

Yes! I’ve used full fat, low fat and fat free sour cream in this recipe and all varieties work well.

Can I use low fat cheese?

Either regular or 2% cheese works great in this recipe. Skip the fat free cheese, though. It doesn’t melt as well and can change the texture of the dip.

Homemade Tortilla Chips

Nothing elevates a dip like fresh chips! Make these quick, 3 ingredient homemade tortilla chips to go along with your easy, creamy bean dip.

Happy Hour Cocktail Pairings

Enjoy your creamy bean dip with a classic tequila cocktail for a delicious happy hour.

Classic Margarita on the rocks — Margarita on the Rocks

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