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Meaty Texas Trash Dip Recipe

4.5 from 146 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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