This vegan refried bean dip is the ultimate snack for parties. It's customizable, easy to prepare, cheesy, creamy, and the perfect consistency for dipping. Gluten-free and ready in 30 minutes! Oil-free option.
Lightly oil a 2-quart baking dish or an 8- or 9-inch skillet (Note: this is just for insurance; if you strictly avoid oils it's fine to skip this step). Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a large bowl stir together the refried beans, ½ cup of cheese, yogurt, spices, salsa, green chiles, ¼ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Spread the bean mixture into the dish/skillet, and top with the remaining cheese. If using my homemade pourable mozzarella, use the back of a spoon to evenly spread it across the top (refer to photo above). Note: if using store-bought vegan cheese, cover the dish with foil to help the cheese melt.
Bake for 20 minutes or until piping hot. If you used the homemade cheese, turn on the broiler around the 18-minute mark. Broil for about 2 minutes to brown the top. Let stand for a few minutes and serve with your favorite toppings and tortilla chips.
Notes
Vegan Yogurt Sub - Once when I didn't have yogurt, I made the dip with ⅔ c silken tofu plus 2 Tbsp lemon juice. Blend until creamy, and use in place of the yogurt.Variations
slow cooker - transfer to a small (1.5 qt) slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes. If desired, top with cheese. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes or until heated through.
stovetop - heat the bean dip in a saucepan, transfer to a serving bowl, then top with shredded cheese. Or increase the amount of cheese stirred into the beans, and skip the cheese on top.
cold - for a cold bean dip, after mixing everything in a bowl, transfer the dip to a serving bowl or storage container and refrigerate until ready to serve. Omit the cheese on top, and garnish with plenty of pico de gallo, green onion, and cilantro!
spicy - use hot green chiles, and add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Top with diced fresh jalapeño.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.