Gather all your ingredients. Dice the sweet onion into small pieces to ensure even cooking.
In a large skillet, heat the canola or vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Add the ground turkey or beef to the skillet with the onions. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chili powder to taste. Continue to cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the refried beans, softened cream cheese, light sour cream, and salsa. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and heated through, about 5 more minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
Once out of the oven, let the dip cool slightly before serving. Pair it with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even warm pita bread for dipping.
