Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
  • 1 packet (28g) taco seasoning
  • 1 can (16 oz) traditional refried beans
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing & Seasoning Mix
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives

Instructions:

  1. Place the 1 lb ground beef in a hot skillet. Cook 6 minutes until deeply browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy dip.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning packet and a splash of water. Simmer 2 minutes until the liquid has evaporated.
  3. Mix the 16 oz refried beans with the diced green chiles in a separate bowl.
  4. Whisk the 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup sour cream, ranch packet, and smoked paprika. Stir until the mixture is silky and pale.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Spread the bean and chile mixture into the bottom of your 9x13 dish.
  7. Evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef over the beans.
  8. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the beef layer. Use a spoon to dollop first, then spread to avoid mixing the layers.
  9. Sprinkle the 2 cups of Mexican blend cheese across the entire surface.
  10. Place in a 350°F oven for 25 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the cheese has melted into a molten sheet.
  11. Top with the black olives and fresh cilantro while it's still hot.