Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1 cup chunky salsa
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 2 tbsp sliced green onions
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

Instructions:

  1. Beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, and lime juice in a bowl until the texture is smooth and airy.
  2. Spread the refried beans evenly across the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish, pressing down with a spoon to ensure no air pockets.
  3. Carefully layer the seasoned cream cheese mixture over the beans, smoothing it all the way to the edges.
  4. Pour the chunky salsa over the cream cheese and spread it gently so you don't disturb the layer beneath.
  5. Finish with a generous blanket of shredded cheddar, covering every inch to prevent the salsa from drying out.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the salsa edges are bubbling.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the layers to set.
  8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and sliced jalapeño.