Hot Mexican Bean Spread
A spicy, hearty Mexican bean spread with ground beef, cheese, and olives, perfect for parties or casual snacking with crackers and chips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and 1/4 cup chopped onions in a skillet or chafing dish.
- Stir in ketchup, chili powder, and salt.
- Mash in the red kidney beans with liquid and heat thoroughly.
- Garnish with shredded sharp American cheese, chopped stuffed green olives, and 1/4 cup chopped onion.
- Serve with crackers and chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If ground beef isn't available, ground turkey or even plant-based meat substitutes can work well. To enhance flavor, sauté the onions until they are caramelized before adding the beef. This Hot Mexican Bean Spread can also be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans or lentils.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious spread warm with a side of tortilla chips or crackers for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or can be served alongside other Mexican recipes like Grandma Mcqueen'S Frito Delight for a fun and filling meal. Consider topping with additional cheese or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Be sure to add a splash of water if it seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Mexican Bean Spread contains roughly 183 calories, with 8g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1872mg per serving (81% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spread ahead of time. Cook the ingredients and let them cool, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or parties!
What can I substitute for red kidney beans?
You can substitute red kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even refried beans. Each will provide a different flavor and texture, but they will all work well in this spread.
Is this spread suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Hot Mexican Bean Spread can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).