Quick & Spicy Refried Bean Dip

This zesty refried bean dip comes together in just 15 minutes with a can of beans, jalapeño, and Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for last-minute snacking or game-day parties.

• Prep5 min
• Cook10 min
• Total15 min
• DifficultyEasy
• Servings4

When you need a fast, flavorful appetizer, this spicy refried bean dip is your answer. It starts with a simple sauté of onion, jalapeño, and garlic, then gets a boost from hot pepper sauce and warm spices like cumin and chili powder. The result is a creamy, smoky dip that's just the right amount of fiery.

Top it with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and serve with tortilla chips for scooping. It's a crowd-pleaser that takes almost no effort—great for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Metric (g, ml, °C)US (cups, oz, °F)

Servings −

4

+

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 1 can refried beans, 16 ounces
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp hot pepper sauce
• ¼ tsp ground cumin
• ¼ tsp chili powder
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Converted amounts are rounded.

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Method

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, seeded and chopped jalapeño, and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion is translucent and tender.
2. Stir in the can of refried beans, water, hot pepper sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
3. Cook and stir the mixture over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, or until heated through and the flavors meld. Adjust consistency with a splash more water if needed.
4. Transfer the hot bean mixture to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Serve immediately with tortilla chips for dipping.

💡 Tips

• For a milder dip, remove the jalapeño seeds and ribs completely. For extra heat, leave some seeds in.
• You can substitute Monterey Jack with shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Make ahead: Prepare the dip without the cheese, refrigerate, then reheat gently and add cheese before serving.

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Inspired by a recipe from Taste of Home