In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until well combined. Stir in 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning.
Spread on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
In the same mixing bowl, combine the refried beans and 1 more tablespoon of taco seasoning. Spread over the cream cheese/sour cream layer.
Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the tomatoes and add them in an even layer over the refried beans.
Top with an even layer of cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is hot and fully melted.
Remove from the oven and add toppings of choice. Serve with tortilla chips.
Tomatoes: Rotel tomatoes come in a variety of heat levels, so choose the one that works best for you/your crowd. Drain them very well and dry them further on paper towels, especially if making this dip ahead of time.
Don’t skip the toppings! They add really nice colors to the dish as well as additional flavor and texture. I use green onions, red onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.