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Best Spicy Black Bean Tailgate Dip

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A creamy, spicy, and totally addictive black bean dip with layers of cheese, pickled jalapeños, and a crunchy crispy onion topping. Ready in under 30 minutes, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for game day or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, undrained
  • 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwaving in 10-second bursts until soft but not melted.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light, fluffy, and completely smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through.
  4. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix on low speed until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Fold in the drained black beans, thawed corn, diced green chiles (with their liquid), and chopped pickled jalapeños using a rubber spatula until evenly coated. Do not overmix.
  6. Spread the bean mixture evenly into a 10-inch cast iron skillet or 9×9 baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top in an even layer.
  7. Sprinkle the second cup of shredded cheese on top, followed by the crumbled queso fresco or cotija if using.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the dip is hot all the way through and the cheese is melted and starting to brown in spots. For blistered spots, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  9. Remove from the oven (use oven mitts). Immediately sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top, followed by fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeño if using.
  10. Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with tortilla chips and lime wedges.

Notes

For best texture, whip the cream cheese until fluffy. Layer cheese in two stages for gooey interior and browned top. Watch salt levels due to canned ingredients. Assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; add 5-7 minutes to baking time if starting cold. For extra crunch, sprinkle additional crispy onions halfway through eating.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy black bean dip, tailgate dip, game day dip, black bean dip, cheesy dip, easy appetizer, party dip