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This vegetarian white bean buffalo dip is my go-to when I need a crave-worthy party snack that always disappears before halftime. Instead of using the usual chicken, this version gets its hearty texture and rich flavor from creamy white beans and a triple-cheese blend, all lifted by bright, tangy buffalo sauce. With only a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, it is the kind of recipe you will reach for again and again whether it is game day or you are just craving a comfort snack with a little kick.
This dip was the unexpected hit at my last friends night in. No one could believe it is vegetarian and my husband has officially requested it for every football playoff.
Ingredients
- White beans canned: Rinse well so they stay creamy not gritty Pick cannellini or Great Northern beans for the smoothest texture
- Cream cheese: Makes the dip ultra rich and tangy Full-fat gives the best result but you can use reduced-fat
- Plain whole milk Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds a light tang and extra creaminess I have tried both and both work beautifully
- Buffalo sauce: Brings the signature punchy flavor Choose your heat level based on your crowd I go medium
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into those classic cheese pulls Look for pre-shredded for convenience or grate your own for best melt
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds depth and a bit of sharpness I love using a good aged cheddar for real flavor
- Diced green onion: Only the green part for a mild bite Pick bright firm stalks for the freshest taste
- Fresh cilantro: For a fresh finish and pop of color Optional but highly recommended
- Tortilla chips carrot sticks celery sticks: For scooping and crunch Hearty chips and crisp veggies hold up best against this rich dip
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Skillet or Pan:
- Grease a nine-inch oven safe skillet or an eight by eight inch baking dish with nonstick spray This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze
- Blend the Buffalo Bean Base:
- Add one can of rinsed white beans cream cheese Greek yogurt and buffalo sauce to a food processor or blender Process until perfectly smooth and creamy This base will give your dip that signature velvety texture and hold the flavors together
- Combine Mix-Ins:
- Pour the blended bean mixture into your prepared pan Gently fold in the second can of rinsed and drained beans along with a quarter cup each of mozzarella and cheddar and the diced green onion Stir just to distribute the chunks evenly
- Top with Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese all over the surface of the dip Make sure it is spread all the way to the edges so every bite is cheesy Bake in your preheated oven for twenty five to thirty minutes until bubbling and golden brown at the edges
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top the hot dip with plenty of fresh cilantro and extra green onion for brightness Serve immediately with sturdy tortilla chips carrot sticks and celery so everyone can dig right in
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One of my favorite parts of this recipe is watching the cheese bubble and brown in the oven while the kitchen fills with the smell of garlic and buffalo sauce My little niece always insists on helping sprinkle the cheese on top she says it is her magic touch
Storage Tips
Let any leftover dip cool fully before storing it in an airtight container It will keep in the fridge for up to three days When ready to serve again reheat in a small baking dish at three hundred and fifty degrees until hot through For faster reheating spoon a portion into a microwave safe bowl and warm in thirty second bursts stirring in between
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Greek yogurt plain sour cream works the same way You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or use a spicy cheddar for more heat Vegan cream cheese and dairy free cheese blends can work for a dairy free version just keep in mind the texture may be slightly different
Serving Suggestions
This dip begs for hearty dippers Try it with thick pita chips crisp toasted baguette or even crunchy bell pepper strips For a fun twist set up a platter with warm soft pretzels or waffle fries and let everyone go wild
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Buffalo Dip Inspiration
Buffalo dip originally started as a cheesy twist on the classic Buffalo chicken wing Now ditching the meat has opened up all kinds of new options like this white bean version I like to make it for Super Bowl parties especially since it holds its own in a lineup of heartier fare
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use cannellini beans or navy beans?
Yes, both cannellini and navy beans work well, providing a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
- → How can I increase the spiciness?
Use a hot buffalo sauce, spicy shredded cheddar, or top with sliced jalapeños before baking for extra heat.
- → Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?
Plain whole milk Greek yogurt can be swapped for sour cream to maintain the creamy consistency and tang.
- → Can the dip be made ahead?
Prepare the dip mixture, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to achieve a bubbly, fresh finish.
- → What are the best dippers?
Tortilla chips, carrot sticks, celery, or pita chips all pair well for scooping up the creamy, tangy dip.