Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown your choice of ground sausage or beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the refried beans, softened cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, and diced green chiles if you’re using them.
- Mix everything until you have a creamy, flavorful mixture.
- Spread the delicious mix evenly into a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet.
- Generously top with the shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until it’s melty, bubbly, and downright irresistible.
- Serve hot alongside tortilla chips, crackers, or cut veggies!
Best ways to enjoy it
Texas Trash Dip shines brightest when paired with crunchy tortilla chips, which are perfect for scooping. If you want to get creative, consider serving it with fresh veggies like celery sticks or bell pepper strips for a lighter option. This dish also pairs well with a zesty salsa or guacamole on the side to round out your Tex-Mex experience!
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow the dip to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you want to freeze, do so before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed when you’re ready to serve. Always remember to practice safe food handling!
Pro chef tips
To elevate your Texas Trash Dip even further, consider these enhancements:
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce on top just before serving for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with cheese types; pepper jack can add an extra zing.
- For a touch of freshness, serve with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before digging in.
Creative twists
Get adventurous with your Texas Trash Dip by trying some flavorful variations! Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:
- Swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter version.
- Try adding black olives or corn into the mix for texture.
- For a healthier version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cream cheese.
Common questions
What is the prep time for Texas Trash Dip?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking lasts 15-20 minutes, making this a quick and easy dish to prepare.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works beautifully with the other ingredients.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep the dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it before baking for future enjoyment.
Can this dip be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge when you pop it in the oven.
