Meaty Texas Trash Dip Recipe
Introduction
Meaty Texas Trash Dip is a hearty, flavorful party favorite perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese, this dip delivers a satisfying blend of spicy and savory flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar + Monterey Jack)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, softened cream cheese, sour cream, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth.
- Step 3: Fold the seasoned beef into the bean mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese and mix well.
- Step 4: Choose your cooking method:
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Spread the dip into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Slow Cooker: Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker, sprinkle with cheese, and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1 hour until warm and melted.
- Step 5: Garnish with optional toppings like green onions, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and extra cheese before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey and low-fat sour cream.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or chopped chipotle peppers for extra smoky heat.
- Serve with sturdy chips or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
- Leftover dip can be stirred and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and increase the amount of beans or add cooked lentils or chopped mushrooms for a similar texture and protein boost.
Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the dip up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, bake or heat it as directed, adding toppings just before serving.
PrintMeaty Texas Trash Dip Recipe
Meaty Texas Trash Dip is a warm, hearty, and cheesy appetizer perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, a blend of Mexican cheeses, and a hint of smoky spices, this dip delivers rich Tex-Mex flavors. You can bake it for a bubbly, golden top or slow cook it for an effortless, gooey treat. Serve with chips or veggies and garnish with fresh toppings for the ultimate party dip experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (oven) or 2 hours (slow cooker on low)
- Total Time: 40 minutes (oven) or up to 2 hours 15 minutes (slow cooker)
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar + Monterey Jack), divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, softened cream cheese, sour cream, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Add the Meat and Cheese: Fold the seasoned ground beef into the bean mixture. Then stir in 1 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese blend to incorporate the flavors and create a creamy texture.
- Bake or Slow Cook: For oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the dip mixture evenly into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a slow cooker, sprinkle with cheese, and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1 hour until warm and melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the dip is hot and the cheese is melted, garnish with your choice of chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and extra shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Taco seasoning packet can be replaced with homemade seasoning for more control over salt and spice levels.
- If you prefer a spicier dip, add diced jalapeños into the mixture.
- Keep the dip warm in the slow cooker during the party for easy serving.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the taco seasoning and refried beans contain no gluten.
Keywords: Texas Trash Dip, Tex-Mex dip, cheese dip, party appetizer, game day dip, layered dip, ground beef dip

