Four Layer Taco Dip

I was unexpectedly occupied late yesterday afternoon and evening, due to, what fortunately turned out to be, a minor family situation.  Therefore, I had absolutely nothing prepared for dinner and at around 8:00pm, I decided to quickly this assemble this tasty four layer taco dip.  If I recall correctly, my mom got this recipe from another mom at my middle school in 1983, so we have been making this for a loooong time. That just goes to prove how easy and good it is. 

In a baking, dish layer 1 can of refried beans on the bottom.  Next, top that with 1 pound of browned ground beef with taco seasoning.  I do find that it works best if you add a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste or a few squirts of ketchup to the beef while it is browning with the taco seasoning in order to give it a little body and some thickness.  On top of the ground beef, layer about 1/2 jar of your favorite salsa.  Finally, top it off with enough shredded cheese to cover the top.  This time I added a few jalapenos as well.  Bake it in a 400 degree oven for about 20-30 minutes or until it is bubbling and the cheese is melted.  Let it sit for about 15 minutes before cutting into it, otherwise, it will run all over the place.  As you can see from the top picture, I got anxious and cut a piece before taking my nightly photo.  I tried to put it back, but I could not erase the evidence.  Serve it with tortilla chips, sour cream and hot sauce.