Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 2

Dice onion. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté onion for about 8 minutes or until softened. (I use 3 Tbsp. water/broth for no-oil sauté method.)

Step 3

Meanwhile, mince garlic.

Step 4

Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika to skillet. Stir and sauté 1 minute.

Step 5

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add refried beans and black beans (rinsed and drained). Stir with spatula to combine. Heat for about 3 minutes until refried beans soften. Salt to taste if desired.

Step 6

Transfer bean mixture to an 8 x 8 inch glass baking dish. Spread into an even layer. Then sprinkle cheese evenly on top.

Step 7

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted. (I like to turn on the broiler for the last minute or two of cooking to help melt the cheese. Watch closely so it doesn't burn.)

Step 8

Remove from oven. Add toppings of choice and serve with tortilla chips.