Fiesta Spread
Fiesta Spread is a flavorful, cheesy dip with seasoned ground beef, beans, and vegetables, perfect for sharing at parties or casual gatherings with crackers or chips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger with chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Add salt, chili powder, and cumin to the meat mixture.
- Stir in the ketchup and refried beans, mashing the beans into the mixture.
- Heat the mixture, stirring frequently, until hot.
- Add Tabasco sauce to taste.
- Garnish with grated cheddar cheese and sliced stuffed olives if desired.
- Serve warm with Ritz crackers or your choice of chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, feel free to add more Tabasco sauce or include diced jalapeños. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap the hamburger for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. You can also customize the spices to suit your taste, perhaps adding a pinch of smoked paprika for depth. This Fiesta Spread is versatile and can be adapted to fit a variety of Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Fiesta Spread warm with Ritz crackers or your choice of chips for a satisfying snack. It also makes a great filling for tacos or burritos. Pair it with a fresh salad or guacamole to balance the richness. This dish pairs beautifully with Great Nacho Dip for a fun appetizer spread at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the spread in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. This spread also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fiesta Spread contains roughly 109 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 992mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Fiesta Spread in advance! Cook the mixture and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving, and it will taste just as delicious. This makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
What can I substitute for refried beans?
If you don't have refried beans, you can substitute them with black beans or pinto beans, mashing them slightly for a similar texture. For a healthier option, consider using mashed avocado or hummus, but keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile of the dish.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of the Fiesta Spread, replace the hamburger with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You can still use the same spices and ingredients for a flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).