Smoky, creamy, bold – and packed with protein!
Let’s Talk Dip 👋
This Spicy Chipotle Black Bean Cottage Cheese Dip is the kind of thing I always keep in my fridge during the week.
It’s bold and smoky from chipotle peppers, creamy thanks to whipped cottage cheese, and full of fiber-rich black beans.
I love that it takes just minutes to make, but tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant.
It’s great for meal prep, parties, or just to scoop up with veggies or tortilla chips when the snack attack hits.
What You’ll Need 📝
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, your choice)
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (more if you like it spicy)
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, chili flakes, extra lime wedges
Why I Love This Recipe ❤️
This dip is on repeat at my house because:
- It tastes like smoky magic and only takes 5 minutes to make.
- It’s super high in protein from the cottage cheese and black beans.
- It’s great for snacks, spreads, or even as a sauce for bowls and wraps.
- It’s totally customizable – want it spicier? Add another chipotle.
I first made this on a Sunday night when I had random leftovers in the fridge, and now it’s something I always bring to game nights. It’s one of those recipes that feels way fancier than it is.
🧪 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, which makes this dip creamy and thick when blended.
- Chipotle in adobo adds depth and smokiness thanks to the peppers being smoked and marinated.
- Black beans give body and boost the fiber, making the dip super satisfying.
- Lime juice helps balance the richness with some brightness and keeps it from feeling too heavy.
🍽️ Servings + Time
Makes: About 1 ½ cups (3–4 servings)
Total Time: 5–7 minutes
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Using too many chipotles. One goes a long way! Start small and taste before adding more.
- Skipping the rinse on the black beans. Rinsing removes extra sodium and that canned flavor.
- Not blending enough. Blend until super creamy, unless you want a chunkier texture.
- Too much lime. A whole lime is perfect, but more than that can overpower the flavors.
🔪 Tools You’ll Need
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Rubber spatula
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- No chipotle? Use smoked paprika + hot sauce.
- No cottage cheese? Use Greek yogurt or ricotta.
- Add-ins: roasted corn, jalapeños, or even avocado.
- Make it a meal: Serve it in a wrap or bowl with grilled chicken and rice.
⏱️ Make Ahead Tips
- Make it up to 4 days ahead!
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Stir before serving – some separation is normal.
👩🍳 How to Make It
Step 1: Add everything to a blender
Dump in the cottage cheese, rinsed black beans, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, minced garlic, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt.
Step 2: Blend until smooth and creamy
Blend on high until the dip is smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides if needed.
Step 3: Taste and adjust
Give it a taste – add a bit more lime juice or salt if needed. If you want it spicier, toss in a bit more adobo or a second chipotle.
Step 4: Serve and garnish
Spoon the dip into a serving bowl. Top with chopped cilantro, chili flakes, and lime wedges if you like.
🥶 Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Stir before serving – it may separate a little but will come right back together.
- Not freezer-friendly – the texture gets weird.
🍴 What to Serve With
- Tortilla chips or pita chips
- Sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers
- Spread in a wrap or sandwich
- Dollop on grain bowls or taco salads
❓ FAQ
Can I make this without a blender?
A food processor works too! For a chunkier version, mash everything by hand with a fork or potato masher.
Is it super spicy?
It has a little kick, but not too much. Start with 1 chipotle and add more to taste.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Yep! It’ll be tangier and slightly less creamy, but still delicious.
🥄 Let’s Make It!
Now it’s your turn! This dip is so easy, but it tastes like something special. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Drop a comment if you tried it or have any questions. Happy dipping! 🌶️🖤