Let’s face it. No one goes to a Super Bowl party expecting Brussels sprouts, quinoa, and salmon. Hot wings, chips, and chili are more likely on the menu, and that’s perfectly okay.
My family most definitely enjoys the typical game day fare, but I do like to add a couple of healthy fillers to the mix. A hearty, green-based salad, for example, provides some balance and always seems to go over better than expected.
Of course, we also need dip to go with the aforementioned chips, but dips can unwittingly be one of the bigger dietary downfalls of the day. Along with their fabulous flavor, ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise contribute lots of empty calories. And as I watch the game (errr, the commercials), I’m certainly not thinking about recommended serving sizes that are measured in mere tablespoons.
With its short ingredient list, the following dip offers simplicity and balance to any casual buffet. Canned beans provide protein and creamy texture and jarred salsa supplies flavor with few calories and no fat. A modest amount of shredded cheese ratchets up the flavor, and a bevy of taco-like toppings contributes texture and visual appeal—and maybe even a serving of vegetables! We typically enjoy this dip with tortilla chips, although a variety of veggie dippers offer a wholesome option.
Yield: 8 servings
- 1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup chunky salsa* (medium or hot according to preference)
- 1 (4–ounce) can green chilies
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (could use sharp cheddar, taco, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon each chili powder and ground cumin
- Optional toppings: extra cheese, sliced black olives, green onions, jalapeños, chopped fresh cilantro, tomatoes, avocado, hot sauce, etc.
- For serving: tortilla chips or corn chips (like Scoops) and/or assorted veggie dippers
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Combine all of the ingredients in a mixing bowl, and transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. No need to grease the plate.
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Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until very hot in the center.
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If desired, sprinkle with a little extra cheese and return to the oven for a minute or two or until the cheese is fully melted. Remove from the oven and top as desired. Serve with corn or tortilla chips and/or veggie dippers.
- * If your salsa is watery, drain off the excess liquid and then measure 1 cup.
Leftovers can be enjoyed in tacos, burritos, and a delicious and the quick weeknight meal pictured below.
My whole family enjoys Speedy Mexican Pizzas, and any extra dip can be used in place of the refried beans specified in the linked recipe.
This is the BEST and I make it often! I made it this time using Trader Joe’s brand refried BLACK beans with jalapenos and I think it’s even better than before. We LOVE this recipe and serve with brown rice for burrito bowls, tortilla fillings and of course as a dip. Amazing and sooo easy! Thank you!
Oh yum, Jennifer! I haven’t tried Trader Joe’s black beans with jalapeños, but I can imagine they would add a little something extra. Thank you for mentioning and I’m delighted this has become a go-to for you!
Such gorgeous, bright photos! This really is game day eats perfection! And your opening line made me laugh out loud 🙂
We can have the Brussels sprouts on Monday, right? And I request your miso sprouts! xo
perfect for the big game!
Thanks, Justine!
This is sooo my kind of food! Yum!
Mine, too, Kris!
Yummmy, yummmy! I love refried beans and this dip looks awesome to me. Thanks Ann!
Thank you, Mary!
The perfect Super Bowl dish! And I think I can eat as much as I want, right?
Absolutely, Abbe! 🙂
I need this bean dip for Super Bowl! Nettie
Me, too, Nettie!
This looks so delicious Ann!
Thanks, Lynn!