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Black Bean Dip

As one of the easiest appetizers I make, this recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and pantry staples to deliver you a flavorful Black Bean Dip

black bean dip with a tortilla chip in it

If you’re looking for the best recipe to bring the next time you’re hosting game day or a Cinco de Mayo party, look no further than this healthy Black Bean Dip!

Black Bean Dip Recipe 

With fresh ingredients, a smoky flavor, and traditional Mexican spices, this chunky black bean dip is the best way to bring your recipe game to the next level.

I always make a creamy dip for family events, and this easy recipe for warm black bean dip is the best way to bring something everyone will love.

As the perfect side dish, this chunky bean dip can be tailored to your taste buds, whether that means adding a little kick with an extra jalapeno pepper or topping with a dollop of sour cream.

Serve this alongside this cheesy Refried Bean Dip, Restaurant Style Salsa, and White Cheese Dip for the ultimate Mexican feast!

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labeled picture of ingredients for black bean dip

Ingredients Needed

Black beans – Replace with kidney beans if necessary. Rinse with cold water.

Sweet onions – Swap with red onion or green onion if you can’t find sweet ones.

Garlic cloves – Choose fresh garlic if possible, but if not substitute with minced garlic.

Jalapeño pepper – Try poblano peppers if you can’t find jalapeno.

Lime juice – I recommend juicing your own limes, but bottled lime juice will also work.

Spices – Cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Cilantro – I recommend using fresh cilantro for this recipe.

Crumbled Mexican Cheese – I use Cotija cheese, but Feta or Cheddar cheese also work.

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How To Make Black Bean Dip

First: In the bowl of a food processor, combine beans, onion, garlic, jalapeños pepper, lime juice, and spices.

Second: Pulse or blend until smooth. If too thick, add a bit of water (usually you only need a few tablespoons of water) until you achieve the right consistency. 

Third: Add in cilantro and pulse.

Fourth: Transfer to serving bowl. Top with cilantro and cheese. Serve with a large bowl of chips! 

For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

bowl of black bean dip with a spoon

What pairs well with Black Bean Dip?

I highly recommend serving this easy black bean dip with salty tortilla chips, green bell pepper slices, or any type of raw veggies. You can also create your own adobo sauce to pour over top for extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, make this einto a delicious vegan black bean dip by removing the cheese and replacing it with any vegan version that you like!

Can I make this ahead of time?

To make this ahead of time, follow all the steps as listed until your black bean mixture is created. Hold off on topping with cilantro and cheese until you serve. Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

tortilla chip scooping out some black bean dip

Tapas Tips & Tricks

  • For a creamier dip, try adding in a little cream cheese along with your beans. 
  • I recommend creating your own tortilla chips to go along with this, by brushing your tortillas with a little oil (I recommend olive oil) and cooking them on medium heat. Store at room temperature until ready to serve!
  • Fresh lime juice is best!
  • Full of nutrients, this is the best of the healthy dips. It’s also gluten free!
  • If you prefer your bean dip warm, you can heat it in an instant pot for a few minutes before serving. 

If you love this recipe as much as I do, please write a five-star review in the comment section below (or on Pinterest with the “tried it” button – you can now add pictures into reviews, too!), and be sure to help me share on facebook!

black bean dip with a tortilla chip in it with text

This creamy black bean dip is the real life version of a perfect appetizer! You won’t find a better way to ensure there aren’t any leftovers than if you choose to make this dip for your next party or gathering!

black bean dip with a tortilla chip in it

Black Bean Dip

Creamy Black Bean Dip is an easy appetizer with a handful of ingredients and pantry staples to deliver you a tons of flavor!
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Course: Savory Dips and Spreads
Cuisine: Mexican
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 47kcal
Author: Jennifer Stewart

Ingredients

  • 30.1 ounces black beans rinsed, drained
  • cup sweet onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 jalapeno pepper ribbed and seeded
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup cilantro
  • ¼ cup crumbled mexican cheese Cotija is best

Instructions

  • In a food processor, add the beans, onion, garlic, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, and spices.
  • Pulse until smooth. If too thick, add water 1 teaspoon at a time until the right consistency.
  • Add in the cilantro and pulse a couple of more times.
  • Remove and place in a serving bowl.
  • Top with additional chopped cilantro and crumbled cheese.
  • Serve with chips.

Notes

  • For a creamier dip, try adding in a little cream cheese along with your beans. 
  • I recommend creating your own tortilla chips to go along with this, by brushing your tortillas with a little oil (I recommend olive oil) and cooking them on medium heat. Store at room temperature until ready to serve!
  • Fresh lime juice is best!
  • Full of nutrients, this is the best of the healthy dips. It's also gluten free!
  • If you prefer your bean dip warm, you can heat it in an instant pot for a few minutes before serving. 
  • Nutrition

    Serving: 1g | Calories: 47kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 84mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g

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