You don’t have to know how to custom order at Chipotle or pronounce “picante” to enjoy this easy, on-the-go Mexican Dip. 

This recipe was a favorite family appetizer that was easy to whip up and take to any party. Using a base of baked cheese and mayonnaise, the dish pops with accents of peppers, olives and hot sauce. We’ve taken the time to recreate the dish as our mamas made it and then added a few alterations. 

Theresa’s Take:

Ironically, neither Beth or I are crazy about eating olives. While they added a great compliment to the dish, I wanted to try a version without them. So for the traditional recipe, I replaced the olives and hot sauce with green pickled peppercorns. Additionally, I made a version with freshly chopped jalapenos and baked the tomatoes in the dish. Both were baked in the oven together. 

Beth’s Bake

Although this notable aroma wafted through the Kiernan kitchen on party days, as Theresa mentioned, it actually wasn’t particularly a dish we loved – and that must be blamed on the olives. But I DID love the cheesy, peppery combination so much, I actually ate AROUND the olives at whatever party we brought it to. So, flash forward to making it afresh as a grown woman, I swapped olives for black beans and the result was charming. It kept all the flavor and essence of the OG while adding a smidge more protein, color and taste. Thank you MAMA!

So whether you choose the olive or non-olive version, you are sure to walk away with a winner for your celebratory gettogether. 

The Results!

The kitchen filled with memories from childhood as the dish finished baking. The cheese melted and bubbled warmly on top. We sprinkled on the last touches, chopped tomatoes and green onions and didn’t wait long before digging in with a handful of tortilla chips. 

The pickled peppercorns are a decent idea, but the execution was a little lacking. Theresa added too many and so the peppercorn flavor dominated the first dish.The fresh ingredients mixed into the second dish are a great touch, but didn’t make a dramatic difference in the final product. 

This dish’s appeal is how easy it is to throw it together for a potluck or surprise house guest. We agree that it’s definitely best served warm and easy to munch on! The mayo and cheese create a rich and creamy flavor profile which can sit a little heavy if you partake too much. As a fun twist, you can add this on top of baked potatoes for an on-the-go lunch or easy dinner.