A Smoky, Cheesy Dip Perfect for Game Day
Introduction
When it comes to game day snacks, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, cheesy dip to keep everyone happy. This Texas Trash Dip on the Traeger takes the classic party favorite and elevates it with a smoky twist. Cooking it on the Traeger adds an extra layer of flavor that makes this dip irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just looking for the ultimate comfort food, this recipe has you covered.
Why Texas Trash Dip?
Texas Trash Dip is known for its creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. It’s a blend of bold flavors that come together in perfect harmony. By incorporating the Traeger grill, we introduce a subtle smokiness that takes this dip to the next level. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings and served with tortilla chips or Fritos for the perfect crunchy contrast.
The Appeal of Warm, Cheesy Dips
Warm, cheesy dips like Texas Trash Dip hold a special place in the world of comfort food. There’s something magical about the gooey texture, rich flavors, and satisfying warmth that makes them perfect for gatherings. They encourage people to gather around, dip in, and share stories and laughter. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together.
The Traeger Advantage
Using a Traeger grill adds more than just a smoky flavor to this dip; it transforms the cooking process. The consistent temperature control and wood-fired smoke infuse the ingredients with a depth of flavor that can’t be replicated in a standard oven. Plus, cooking outdoors on the Traeger keeps the kitchen cool and adds a fun, interactive element to your gathering.
Consistent Temperature Control
One of the key benefits of using a Traeger is its ability to maintain a consistent temperature. This ensures that your dip cooks evenly, with the cheese melting perfectly without burning. The even heat distribution is especially important for dishes like this, where a smooth, creamy texture is the goal.
The Magic of Wood-Fired Flavor
Traeger grills use hardwood pellets to produce a unique, smoky flavor that enhances every dish. For this dip, the smoke adds a subtle depth that complements the creamy cheese and savory beef. It’s a flavor profile that’s hard to beat, and it takes this classic dip to new heights.
A Family-Friendly Favorite
As a dad, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both kid-friendly and satisfying for adults. This Texas Trash Dip checks both boxes. The creamy, cheesy base is a hit with kids, while the smoky undertones and spicy toppings appeal to grown-up tastes. You can even customize the spice level to suit your family’s preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Customizable for All Tastes
One of the best things about this dip is how easy it is to customize. You can adjust the spice level, swap out the ground beef for chicken or turkey, or add extra veggies for a healthier twist. It’s a flexible recipe that works for any crowd.
Inspired by Classic Flavors
The inspiration for this recipe comes from the classic flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine—bold, spicy, and packed with personality. We took those traditional elements and gave them a Traeger twist, adding layers of smoky goodness that elevate the dip from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s a fusion of old and new, familiar and exciting, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, scored, coated in taco seasoning, and smoked at 225°F
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can refried beans
- 1/2 pound ground beef, cooked on the Traeger Flatrock
- 1 can diced green chiles
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (plus more for sprinkling)
- Diced tomatoes for topping
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños for garnish
- Tortilla chips or Fritos for serving
Why Cooking This Texas Trash Dip on the Traeger Works
The Traeger grill adds a depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve with a conventional oven. Smoking the cream cheese infuses it with a rich, smoky aroma, while cooking the ground beef on the Flatrock gives it a perfect sear and texture. Baking the dip on the Traeger ensures an even heat distribution, resulting in a bubbly, golden top layer that’s irresistible.
Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat the Traeger to 225°F.
- Prepare the cream cheese: Score the top of the cream cheese block, coat it generously with taco seasoning, and place it on the Traeger. Smoke for about 30 minutes.
Cooking the Ground Beef
- Cook the ground beef on the Traeger Flatrock until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
Assembling the Dip
- Mix the dip: In a large bowl, combine the smoked cream cheese, sour cream, refried beans, cooked ground beef, green chiles, Monterey Jack, cheddar cheese, and taco seasoning.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle more shredded cheese and taco seasoning on top.
Baking and Finishing Touches
- Bake at 350°F on the Traeger until hot and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
- Garnish with diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños.
- Serve with tortilla chips or Fritos and enjoy!
Starting with bold flavors—seasoned cream cheese ready to hit the Traeger, alongside a fresh jalapeño for that perfect kick. 
The flavors come together—mixing creamy refried beans, smoked cream cheese, seasoned beef, and shredded cheese for the ultimate dip.
Alternate Recipes/Product Links
Products used in this cook:
Ready to Wow Your Crowd?
This Texas Trash Dip on the Traeger is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, parties, or any gathering. The smoky flavors, creamy texture, and bold toppings make it a standout dish. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your Traeger creations with us!
For more Traeger-inspired recipes, be sure to check out my cookbook, Weeknight Smoking on Your Traeger and Other Pellet Grills, available here.
Texas Trash Dip on the Traeger
Equipment
- Traeger Grill (set to 225°F, then 350°F)
- Traeger Flatrock griddle
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese scored, coated in taco seasoning, and smoked at 225°F
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can refried beans
- 1/2 pound ground beef cooked on the Traeger Flatrock
- 1 can diced green chiles
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning plus more for sprinkling
- Diced tomatoes for topping
- Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños for garnish
- Tortilla chips or Fritos for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Traeger to 225°F.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese: Score the top of the cream cheese block, coat it generously with taco seasoning, and smoke on the Traeger for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef: On the Traeger Flatrock, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the Dip: In a large bowl, combine smoked cream cheese, sour cream, refried beans, ground beef, green chiles, Monterey Jack, cheddar cheese, and taco seasoning.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with more shredded cheese and taco seasoning.
- Bake: Increase Traeger temperature to 350°F and bake until hot and bubbly, about 20–25 minutes.
- Garnish: Add diced tomatoes, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños on top.
- Serve: Enjoy with tortilla chips or Fritos!
Notes
Make Ahead: Prepare the dip a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Flavor Boost: Use smoked taco seasoning for an extra smoky punch.
Kid-Friendly Version: Omit the jalapeños and reduce taco seasoning for a milder flavor.
Recipe Notes:
For even more Traeger-inspired recipes, check out my cookbook, Weeknight Smoking on Your Traeger and Other Pellet Grills, available here.
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