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14 Easy Dips Using Canned Beans

By: Author Andrew Gray

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Looking for simple and tasty ways to use canned beans? This collection of 14 easy dips brings together a variety of flavorful recipes that are great for snacking, entertaining, or adding a quick boost to any meal.

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These dips range from creamy and mild to bold and spicy, featuring popular beans like black beans, chickpeas, and white beans. Each recipe highlights accessible ingredients and flavors, making them suited for casual get-togethers, healthy snacks, or just something satisfying to enjoy without much fuss.

What makes these dips a solid choice is how quick they come together and the minimal cleanup involved. They rely on pantry staples and simple steps, so you can get delicious results without spending a lot of time or effort.

1. Classic Black Bean Dip

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This black bean dip is a straightforward snack that brings bold flavors together in a smooth, creamy mix. It combines smoky cumin and fresh lime juice to highlight the natural richness of black beans, making it a great companion for tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.

The texture is thick enough to scoop easily but still light and vibrant thanks to the citrus and seasonings. You can have it ready in under 15 minutes, making it a handy choice for casual gatherings or a quick bite when you want something flavorful yet wholesome.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe offers a balanced combination of ease and great taste in just a few steps. It’s a reliable option for busy cooks who want a snack that feels homemade but doesn’t take much time.

  • Convenience – Uses common pantry staples and comes together quickly with minimal prep.
  • Flavor balance – The smoky cumin and tangy lime juice bring out the deep, earthy notes of the beans.
  • Texture – Creamy and smooth with a little chunkiness for interest.
  • Appeal – Works well as a snack or appetizer for families and gatherings alike.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients here can accommodate different flavor preferences or dietary choices without changing the core texture and appeal. Adjustments allow for customization depending on what you have on hand or want to highlight.

  • Black beans – Try canned pinto beans for a slightly sweeter taste and creamier texture.
  • Lime juice – Use lemon juice for a subtler citrus brightness or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a different tang.
  • Cumin – Ground coriander or smoked paprika can replace cumin if you want a milder or smokier profile.
  • Fresh garlic – Garlic powder works well if fresh is unavailable or if you prefer a less intense garlic flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 2 tablespoons water (or more as needed).
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro or green onion.

Instructions

  1. Place black beans, olive oil, garlic, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender.
  2. Pulse until mostly smooth but slightly chunky. Add water one tablespoon at a time to adjust consistency.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lime juice.
  4. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with cilantro or green onion if desired.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips, veggies, or as a spread.

2. Creamy White Bean and Garlic Dip

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This creamy white bean and garlic dip is a smooth and savory option that’s easy to prepare and versatile for many occasions. The combination of tender white beans with fresh garlic and a touch of lemon juice creates a bright, flavorful spread that works well with pita bread, fresh veggies, or crackers.

It’s a great choice if you want a wholesome snack or appetizer that feels both satisfying and light. The texture is rich and velvety, making it a crowd-pleaser in any casual gathering or family snack time.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe offers a deliciously creamy dip that’s packed with simple, wholesome ingredients. It blends ease and flavor to fit into busy schedules without compromising on taste.

  • Convenience – Takes just minutes to blend and requires no cooking.
  • Flavor balance – Combines the richness of white beans with the bright zing of lemon and the pungency of fresh garlic.
  • Texture – Smooth and creamy, perfect for dipping or spreading.
  • Appeal – Suitable for plant-based diets and easy to enjoy by all ages.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients can help customize this dip for allergies, dietary preferences, or just to keep things interesting. Small changes maintain the creamy texture while giving the dip new flavor dimensions.

  • White beans – Substitute with cannellini or great northern beans.
  • Lemon juice – Use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
  • Garlic – Replace raw garlic with roasted garlic for milder sweetness.
  • Olive oil – Use avocado oil or neutral oil for a lighter taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed.
  • 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons water.

Instructions

  1. Combine white beans, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
  3. Add water one tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Serve with pita, veggies, or crackers; refrigerate for up to 3 days.

3. Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Hummus

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Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Hummus offers a fresh twist on traditional hummus by blending sweet, smoky roasted red peppers with creamy chickpeas. This smooth, vibrant spread is colorful and full of flavor.

It’s perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or healthy addition to sandwiches and wraps. The recipe is simple and quick to prepare without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Why This Recipe Works

This hummus balances the creaminess of chickpeas with sweet smoky roasted peppers for an inviting flavor.

  • Convenience – Uses canned chickpeas and jarred roasted peppers, quick to make.
  • Flavor balance – Smoky, sweet, and savory.
  • Texture – Smooth and creamy with the right body.
  • Versatility – Great for dipping, spreading, or salad topping.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swaps adjust dietary needs or flavor preferences while maintaining appeal.

  • Chickpeas – Substitute white beans for milder taste.
  • Roasted red peppers – Use fire-roasted tomatoes.
  • Tahini – Replace with almond or sunflower seed butter.
  • Lemon juice – Use lime juice for a different tang.

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
  • 1 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped.
  • 2 tablespoons tahini.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil.
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons water.

Instructions

  1. Combine chickpeas, red peppers, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt in a food processor.
  2. Pulse to combine, then blend while drizzling in olive oil until smooth.
  3. Add water by tablespoon to adjust consistency.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Serve drizzled with olive oil, with veggies, pita, or sandwiches; store covered in fridge for up to 4 days.

4. Southwestern Pinto Bean Dip

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Southwestern Pinto Bean Dip is a mildly spicy, flavorful choice for taco nights, game days, or get-togethers. Creamy beans combined with chipotle powder and fresh cilantro balance smoky and fresh flavors beautifully.

It’s simple to prepare and works well as a dip or topping for grilled meats and roasted vegetables.

Why This Recipe Works

This dip is an easy, flavorful addition that blends convenience with bold taste.

  • Convenience – Quick prep with pantry staples.
  • Flavor balance – Creamy beans, smoky chipotle, bright cilantro.
  • Texture – Smooth yet slightly chunky.
  • Versatility – Dip or condiment.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swaps help adjust heat, herbs, and beans without losing southwestern essence.

  • Beans – Swap black or kidney beans.
  • Spice – Use smoked paprika for milder flavor.
  • Acidity – Lemon juice instead of lime.
  • Herbs – Use parsley instead of cilantro.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked pinto beans, drained.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion.
  • 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons chipotle powder.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
  • 1 garlic clove, minced.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender.
  2. Pulse to creamy yet chunky consistency, scraping sides.
  3. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, chipotle, and lime juice.
  4. Chill 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
  5. Serve with chips, veggies, or on tacos.

5. Cannellini Bean and Herb Dip

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This dip pairs creamy white beans with fresh herbs for a Mediterranean-inspired snack. Lemon zest and oregano add brightness and earthiness to the smooth beans.

Easy to prepare and wonderful with veggies, crackers, or pita, it’s light yet satisfying.

Why This Recipe Works

Quick to make, packed with flavor, and nutritious, this dip suits many occasions.

  • Convenience – Uses pantry staples and fresh herbs.
  • Flavor balance – Bright herbs and citrus with creamy beans.
  • Texture – Smooth and velvety.
  • Appeal – Crowd-pleasing and healthy.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Simple substitutions can tailor this dip to your pantry and preferences.

  • Cannellini beans – Try Great Northern or navy beans.
  • Fresh oregano – Use thyme or rosemary.
  • Lemon zest – Try lime zest.
  • Olive oil – Substitute avocado or mild vegetable oil.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed.
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional).

Instructions

  1. Blend beans, olive oil, oregano, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Add water one tablespoon at a time if too thick.
  3. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
  5. Serve chilled or room temp with veggies or pita.

6. Spicy Black Bean and Avocado Dip

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This dip combines creamy avocado with spicy black beans for a flavorful snack or party spread. Jalapeño heat balances avocado smoothness, while black beans add heartiness.

Perfect for chips, veggies, or tacos, it’s quick to make with fresh ingredients.

Why This Recipe Works

Offers a delicious creamy and spicy balance that is simple and nutritious.

  • Convenience – No cooking, fast preparation.
  • Flavor balance – Creamy avocado calms jalapeño heat.
  • Nutrition – High protein and fiber.
  • Versatility – Dip or spread.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjust heat and texture easily with these swaps:

  • Jalapeño – Use milder poblano or chili powder.
  • Black beans – Substitute pinto or chickpeas.
  • Avocado – Replace with Greek yogurt for lower fat.
  • Lime juice – Use lemon juice.

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained.
  • 1 ripe avocado, chopped.
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped.
  • 1 garlic clove, minced.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice.
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion (optional).

Instructions

  1. Mash avocado with lime juice in a bowl.
  2. Mix in black beans, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir in cilantro and onion if using.
  4. Chill 30 minutes.
  5. Serve with chips or veggies; store leftovers covered, use within 1–2 days.

7. Lemon Tahini White Bean Dip

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Creamy white beans with nutty tahini and fresh lemon juice come together in this flavorful dip. It’s smooth, easy, and perfect for snacks or sandwich spreads.

Bright and satisfying, it requires minimal prep and is great for entertaining.

Why This Recipe Works

Easy pantry recipe delivering fresh, creamy flavors quickly.

  • Convenience – Quick, few ingredients.
  • Flavor balance – Tangy lemon highlights earthy tahini and beans.
  • Texture – Creamy and smooth.
  • Versatility – Snack, appetizer, or sandwich spread.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Make simple changes while keeping the flavors balanced:

  • White beans – Use chickpeas for classic hummus style.
  • Tahini – Substitute sunflower seed butter for nut-free option.
  • Lemon juice – Try lime juice.
  • Olive oil – Use avocado oil.

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained.
  • 3 tablespoons tahini.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced.
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.
  • Water as needed.
  • Chopped parsley (optional).

Instructions

  1. Blend beans, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until mostly smooth.
  2. Drizzle in olive oil while blending for creaminess.
  3. Thin with water if needed.
  4. Adjust seasonings.
  5. Garnish with parsley and serve.

8. Curried Chickpea Dip

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Mild curry spices combined with creamy chickpeas create this vibrant, flavorful spread. It’s great with naan, crackers, or veggie sticks.

With a subtle warmth and easy prep, it’s perfect for snacking or entertaining.

Why This Recipe Works

Delivers bold yet balanced curry flavors simply and quickly.

  • Convenience – Minimal prep, pantry-friendly.
  • Flavor balance – Warm curry spices with creamy chickpeas.
  • Texture – Smooth with slight chunkiness.
  • Appeal – Vegan and widely enjoyed.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjust spices or ingredients without losing character:

  • Chickpeas – Use white beans or lentils.
  • Yogurt – Substitute coconut or plant-based yogurt.
  • Curry powder – Try garam masala or turmeric blend.
  • Herbs – Swap cilantro for parsley or mint.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained.
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced.
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro.

Instructions

  1. Blend chickpeas, yogurt, olive oil, garlic, curry powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  2. Pulse until mostly smooth with some texture.
  3. Adjust seasoning.
  4. Garnish with cilantro.
  5. Serve with naan, crackers, or veggies; store refrigerated.

9. Cilantro Lime Black Bean Dip

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Bright lime juice and fresh cilantro lift hearty black beans in this zesty dip. Smooth, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s perfect for snacks or party appetizers.

Why This Recipe Works

Balances fresh, vibrant flavors with creamy texture for versatile use.

  • Convenience – Few pantry ingredients, fast blending.
  • Flavor balance – Lime and cilantro enhance earthy beans.
  • Texture – Smooth with slight chunkiness.
  • Appeal – Vegan, wholesome, and festive.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Customizable for tastes or diets:

  • Black beans – Use pinto or cannellini beans.
  • Cilantro – Substitute parsley.
  • Lime juice – Use lemon juice.
  • Add-ins – Jalapeño or cumin.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked black beans.
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice.
  • 1 garlic clove, minced.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  • 2 tablespoons water.
  • Optional: black pepper.

Instructions

  1. Blend beans, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and olive oil.
  2. Add water to reach desired texture.
  3. Adjust seasonings.
  4. Chill 30 minutes.
  5. Serve with veggies, chips, or sandwiches.

10. Greek-Style White Bean and Feta Dip

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Creamy cannellini beans combine with tangy feta and oregano for a classic Mediterranean dip. Ready in minutes and bursting with flavor, it pairs well with veggies, pita, or crackers.

Why This Recipe Works

Convenient and bold flavor profile with satisfying texture.

  • Convenience – Quick, no cooking.
  • Flavor balance – Creamy beans complement salty feta and herbs.
  • Texture – Smooth with crumbly feta.
  • Appeal – Healthy and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Tailor for taste and dietary needs:

  • Feta – Use goat cheese or ricotta salata.
  • Beans – Use navy or great northern beans.
  • Herbs – Try dill or thyme.
  • Olive oil – Substitute avocado oil.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans.
  • 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled.
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Instructions

  1. Pulse beans, feta, and olive oil until mostly smooth.
  2. Add oregano, garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt.
  3. Blend until combined.
  4. Adjust seasoning.
  5. Serve with veggies, pita, or crackers.

11. Chickpea and Sundried Tomato Spread

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Creamy chickpeas pair with sweet, tangy sundried tomatoes for a flavorful spread perfect on crostini or crackers. Quick to make and packed with umami, it’s great for casual snacks.

Why This Recipe Works

Delicious, practical, and easy to prepare.

  • Convenience – Ready in under 10 minutes.
  • Flavor balance – Tangy sundried tomatoes with creamy chickpeas.
  • Texture – Smooth with tomato bits.
  • Appeal – Ideal for snacks and casual entertaining.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Customize flavors and textures simply:

  • Chickpeas – Use cannellini or navy beans.
  • Sundried tomatoes – Use roasted red peppers.
  • Olive oil – Try avocado or walnut oil.
  • Herbs – Substitute basil with parsley or oregano.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas.
  • 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes in oil, chopped.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  • 1 garlic clove.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh basil.

Instructions

  1. Blend chickpeas, sundried tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth but textured.
  2. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Taste and adjust.
  4. Garnish with basil.
  5. Serve with crostini or veggies; refrigerate leftovers.

12. Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Dip

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Bold smoky heat from chipotle peppers complements creamy black beans in this flavorful dip. Quick to prepare and adjustable to spice preference, it pairs perfectly with chips or as a sandwich spread.

Why This Recipe Works

Simple preparation with rich, smoky flavor and a satisfying texture.

  • Convenience – Ready in under 10 minutes.
  • Flavor balance – Smoky chipotle and creamy beans.
  • Texture – Smooth yet slightly chunky.
  • Versatility – Dip, spread, or taco topping.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adapt to taste or dietary needs:

  • Chipotle peppers in adobo – Use smoked paprika and cayenne.
  • Black beans – Substitute pinto or kidney beans.
  • Lime juice – Use lemon juice.
  • Greek yogurt – Use dairy-free yogurt or avocado.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked black beans.
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo.
  • 2 tablespoons adobo sauce.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice.
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  • Optional: 1/4 cup Greek yogurt.

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients except olive oil and yogurt; pulse to mix.
  2. Drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.
  3. Add yogurt for creaminess if desired; blend.
  4. Adjust seasoning.
  5. Chill 30 minutes; serve with chips or veggies.

13. White Bean and Basil Dip

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Creamy white beans meet fresh basil in this bright, smooth dip. Quick and versatile, it’s perfect for crackers, toast, or fresh veggies.

Why This Recipe Works

Simple ingredients blend for a refreshing, healthy dip.

  • Convenience – Minimal ingredients, fast prep.
  • Flavor balance – Mild beans with bright basil.
  • Texture – Smooth and spreadable.
  • Appeal – Vegetarian and customizable.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Simple swaps keep it fresh and adaptable:

  • White beans – Use cannellini or great northern beans.
  • Basil – Replace with parsley or cilantro.
  • Olive oil – Use avocado oil.
  • Lemon juice – Try white wine vinegar.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) white beans.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  • 1 garlic clove, minced.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.
  • Optional: red pepper flakes.

Instructions

  1. Blend beans, basil, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
  2. Add water if needed for consistency.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  4. Chill 15 minutes.
  5. Serve with veggies or crackers.

14. Pinto Bean and Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

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Combining creamy cream cheese, hearty pinto beans, and spicy jalapeños, this dip is rich, flavorful, and quick to prepare.

Great for casual snacks or gatherings, its creamy texture and balanced heat appeal to varied tastes.

Why This Recipe Works

Easy to make with a satisfying blend of heat, creaminess, and savory flavor.

  • Convenience – Quick and uses common ingredients.
  • Flavor balance – Cream cheese softens jalapeño heat; beans add earthiness.
  • Texture – Smooth and creamy with a bit of bean chunkiness.
  • Appeal – Family-friendly and customizable heat.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adapt for different needs and preferences:

  • Cream cheese – Use dairy-free or Greek yogurt.
  • Beans – Substitute black or cannellini beans.
  • Heat – Use milder peppers or increase jalapeños.
  • Add-ins – Include cilantro or green onions.

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans.
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened.
  • 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped.
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste.

Instructions

  1. Mash pinto beans slightly, leaving some texture.
  2. Mix in cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and cumin until smooth.
  3. Stir in jalapeños, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Refrigerate 30 minutes.
  5. Serve chilled or room temp with chips or veggies.

This collection of dips showcases the versatility and convenience of canned beans, offering something for every taste and occasion. Enjoy experimenting and sharing these delicious recipes!