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–+ servings
Hot Refried Bean Dip
This hearty Hot Refried Bean Dip is a classic party favorite rooted in mid-century American entertaining, when crock pots became a staple for easy, crowd-pleasing dishes. Combining creamy refried beans, seasoned ground beef, and melted processed cheese, this dip delivers rich, savory flavor with a Tex-Mex influence. The addition of taco sauce and spices gives it a gentle kick, while slow cooking allows everything to meld into a warm, scoopable consistency perfect for gatherings. It’s beloved for its simplicity, affordability, and ability to stay warm for hours, making it ideal for game days, potlucks, and casual get-togethers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Warm Time 6 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Course dip
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz refried beans (drained and mashed)
  • ½ lb ground beef (lean )
  • 3 tbsp bacon fat
  • 1 lb processed cheese (cubed)
  • 1 to 3 tbsp taco sauce
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • garlic salt (to taste)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Brown the Meat

  • Cook the ground beef in bacon fat over medium heat until fully browned.
  • Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

  • Add the browned beef and refried beans to the crock pot.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

  • Stir in taco sauce, taco seasoning, and garlic salt.

Step 4: Add Cheese

  • Add the cubed processed cheese to the mixture.

Step 5: Cook on High

  • Cover and cook on high until the cheese melts (about 1–2 hours).
  • Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.

Step 6: Keep Warm & Serve

  • Turn to low and keep warm for up to 6 hours.
  • Serve hot with corn chips.

Tips

  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version
  • Add diced jalapeños for extra heat
  • Stir in sour cream for a creamier texture
  • Use cheddar instead of processed cheese for a sharper flavor
  • Add black beans or corn for extra texture
  • Top with green onions before serving
  • Serve with tortilla chips, veggies, or toasted bread
  • Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding more beans

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 18gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword cheesy dip, comfort food, crockpot, game day, party dip, Tex-Mex, vintage recipe
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