Today I am going to share one of my secret weapons. I brandish this one any time I have a large party or gathering. We also sometimes make this one just for us when there is a big game, and since it is tailgating season after all, I figured now is the perfect time to share! Anything that cooks itself in the crock-pot while you are getting ready for a party and tastes divine, is basically... my favorite ever. So ya! I promise you, you want this in your recipe arsenal.
This Slow Cooker Bean Dip is perfect for any get together!
You can’t beat this slow cooker bean dip, and here are a few reasons why:
- Convenience: Crockpot bean dip is incredibly convenient for get-togethers because it can be prepared in advance and left to cook slowly without needing constant attention.
- Crowd Pleaser: Bean dip is a universally loved appetizer that appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether guests are vegetarian, gluten-free, or meat lovers, bean dip is sure to satisfy everyone's cravings.
- Customizable: Our Crockpot bean dip is highly versatile and can be easily customized to suit various flavor preferences. From adding different types of beans, spices, cheeses, or toppings like diced tomatoes, cilantro, or avocado, you can tailor the dip to your liking or to complement other dishes being served at your gathering.
Crockpot Bean Dip Ingredients
- Refried Beans
- Salsa
- Shredded Jack Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Sour Cream
- Cream Cheese
- Chili Powder
- Ground Cumin
- Tortilla Chips
Crockpot Bean Dip Recipe substitutions
If you don’t have Cumin or Chili Powder on hand here are a few other spices you can easily substitute:
- Paprika: Paprika offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor and adds a vibrant red color to the bean dip. It can help provide a similar depth of flavor as chili powder.
- Cayenne Pepper: For heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. It's much spicier than chili powder, so use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the dish. Adjust the amount according to your preference for heat.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder can enhance the savory profile of the bean dip, providing a subtle yet impactful flavor boost.
What to eat with Crockpot Refried Bean Dip
- Tortilla Chips: Classic tortilla chips are a natural pairing for bean dip, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the dip.
- Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Serve bean dip with fresh salsa or pico de gallo on the side for added freshness and flavor.
- Guacamole: Add some avocado goodness to your bean dip spread by serving it alongside guacamole. The creamy avocado pairs well with the savory bean dip.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Offer sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping for guests to dollop onto their bean dip. The tanginess of these toppings complements the richness of the dip.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the bean dip with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro, green onions, or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to store Crock Pot Bean Dip with Cream Cheese
- Transfer to a Container: Transfer the bean dip to an airtight container. If the crockpot insert is removable, you can use it as a container once it's cooled down.
- Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator promptly after cooling. Bean dips containing cream cheese should be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
- Consume Promptly: Consume the stored bean dip within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.
Does Bean Dip need to be refrigerated?
Yes, bean dip should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Can you freeze Bean Dip?
Yes, you can freeze bean dip, including versions containing cream cheese. Here's how to do it:
- Cool Completely: Allow the bean dip to cool completely before freezing.
- Portioning: If you're freezing a large batch of bean dip, consider dividing it into smaller portions. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.
- Freezer-Safe Containers: Transfer the cooled bean dip to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion as the bean dip freezes.
- Label and Date: Label each container or bag with the contents and the date of freezing. This helps you keep track of how long it's been in the freezer.
- Freeze: Place the containers or bags in the freezer. Bean dip can typically be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy the bean dip, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
*While freezing bean dip is possible, it's worth noting that the texture of some ingredients, like cream cheese, may change slightly upon thawing. However, the flavor should remain intact, making frozen bean dip a convenient option for meal prep or storing leftovers.
Crockpot Refried Bean Dip FAQs
Below are a few frequently asked questions about bean dip.
The primary difference between refried beans and bean dip lies in their texture, flavor, and usage. Refried beans are typically mashed and cooked until smooth and spreadable, with a savory flavor profile often enhanced by ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices such as cumin and chili powder. They are commonly served as a side dish or filling for various Mexican dishes like burritos and tacos.
On the other hand, bean dip tends to have a creamier consistency achieved by blending cooked beans with ingredients like cheese, cream cheese, salsa, or spices, resulting in a dip that can be smooth or chunky. Bean dip offers a wider range of flavor options and is commonly served as an appetizer or snack, often accompanied by tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks for dipping, making it a popular choice for parties or casual gatherings.
Not in this recipe as it uses previously cooked refried beans.
You should not need to thicken this recipe. Adding shredded cheese and cream cheese to the bean dip can helps thicken it while also adding richness and flavor. Bean dip can also thicken naturally as it cools.
Crockpot Bean Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 16 oz can refried beans
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded jack and cheddar cheeses 8oz., mixed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 oz pkg. cream cheese cubed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- tortilla chips
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (aside from your chips) in slow cook and stir.
- Cover, and cook on high for two hours. Stir periodically while cooking.
- Serve warm from the crock-pot with chips. *Recipe yields 4-5 cups dip.
Notes
Nutrition
Well, now you know how easy the world's best dip actually is! What are you waiting for? You don't need an occasion to make this one, I give you permission to make it now ;).
If you liked this post you will also love our delicious bowtie pasta salad and our Spinach Poppyseed Salad!
Melissa McArthur
I can never get enough bean dip! This is perfection!
Barb
Can't wait to try this dip ! Thanks
Jennie
I can't find 3 oz packages of cream cheese, only 8 oz. Is it meant to be 8? Thanks!
Jessica @ Pretty Providence
No it isn't! I just cut it in half (so 4 oz) and use a little less! Good luck!
Bridget
I made this and it tasted good. I added hit sauce as the creaminess really needed some balance. It was a bit thin for my liking. Any advice oh now to thicken it up?
prettyprovidence
I've never thought of it as really spicy, but I am also not that sensitive about spice! I bet halving the amount would be perfect for you. Good luck :)
Kim
Does the chili powder make it really spicy? Wondering if I could leave this out or cut down on the amount?
northern cottage
mmmmm - i love me some easy yummy bean dip. totally gonna woof this down soon!
prettyprovidence
Sooo good!! I'm glad I'm not the only one!! Thanks for your comment :)
Rate the Plate Utah
Sound delicious! I love bean dip!
Coralie
oh yummy! Going to have to make this for family night. I know it would be gone before I set the bowl down lol. Thanks for sharing :)
Jessica @ Pretty Providence
That's how it is at our house for sure!! ????
Sarah @ Pretty Providence
Yummmmmm! I'm dying to try this. I also think you just answered you own question of when you would use a baby crockpot :)