If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly savory, Meaty Texas Trash Dip is your answer. This warm, baked dip blends bold Tex-Mex flavors with hearty ground beef, refried beans, melted cheese, and just the right touch of spice. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, a family gathering, or simply indulging in a weekend snack fest, this dip will be the first to disappear from the table.
Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously addictive dip—and how to customize it for your taste.
🧾 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comfort food classic:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meaty Base
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Mix the Base Layer
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and sour cream until fully melted and combined with the beef. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, refried beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and uniform.
Step 3: Layer and Top
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Smooth the top, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dip for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, you can broil it for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve warm with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or even veggie sticks.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Make it spicier: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or use spicy refried beans.
- Add more texture: Stir in black beans or corn for a chunkier dip.
- Go meatless: Skip the beef and double up on beans and cheese for a vegetarian option.
- Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients and heat on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Texas Trash Dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dip a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just bake as instructed.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Allow the dip to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
What can I serve with this dip besides chips?
It pairs wonderfully with sliced baguette, toasted pita, crackers, or even fresh vegetables like celery sticks and bell pepper slices.
How can I make it healthier?
Try using ground turkey instead of beef, low-fat cheese, and light sour cream. You can also add finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to bulk it up with less fat.
Print
Meaty Texas Trash Dip: The Ultimate Party Appetizer
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
This Meaty Texas Trash Dip is the ultimate party appetizer! Loaded with flavorful ground beef, beans, cheese, and Tex-Mex spices, it’s creamy, cheesy, and totally irresistible—perfect for scooping with tortilla chips and sharing with a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onions until beef is browned and onions are soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Drain excess fat and transfer beef mixture to a large mixing bowl.
- Add cream cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes with green chilies, refried beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Spread the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm with tortilla chips.
Notes
- Make it spicier by adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- This dip reheats well—store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and double the refried beans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
🧀 Conclusion
Meaty Texas Trash Dip is more than just a dip—it’s a flavor-packed comfort food that brings people together. With its creamy layers, bold spices, and cheesy goodness, it’s a guaranteed hit at any event. Whip it up once, and we promise, it’ll become your go-to party appetizer.
Let the dipping begin!