Creamy Boat Dip with Cream Cheese and Rotel – Easy Party Appetizer
Riverside Rotel Cream Cheese Dip
A creamy, no-bake crowd-pleaser featuring cream cheese, sour cream, Rotel tomatoes & green chilies, and a punchy taco-ranch spice blend. Perfect for lake days, BBQs, or game nights.
Ingredients
Method
- Place the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and microwave for 20–30 seconds to soften.
- In a large bowl, beat the warmed cream cheese and sour cream with an electric mixer until fluffy.
- Fold in the drained Rotel, 1½ cups of the Colby Jack cheese, ranch seasoning, and taco seasoning until fully combined.
- Spoon the mixture into a serving dish, top with remaining cheese, and broil for 1–2 minutes until bubbly (optional).
- Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or crackers.
Riverside Rotel Cream Cheese Dip
This creamy, no-bake dip is loaded with tangy Rotel, melty cheese, and a zesty spice combo. It’s a guaranteed hit on the boat, by the pool, or at your next backyard bash.
Why You’ll Love It
- Super Simple: Just 7 ingredients and 10 minutes prep.
- No Oven Required: Serve it cold or pop under the broiler for a melty top.
- Endlessly Customizable: Stir in black beans, corn, or fresh jalapeños for extra color and texture.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Chef’s Special Tip
For an ultra-light texture, whip ¼ cup of heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold it into the base before adding the Rotel. It makes every bite extra airy and decadent.
Instructions
- Microwave the cream cheese in a covered microwave-safe bowl for 20–30 seconds until easily spreadable.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and slightly whipped.
- Fold in the drained Rotel, 1½ cups of Colby Jack, ranch seasoning, and taco seasoning until evenly blended.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and broil 1–2 minutes until bubbly (optional).
- Garnish with cilantro. Serve warm or chilled with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or crackers.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Prep Ahead: Mix up to 24 hours in advance. Flavors deepen with time.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Skip Freezing: The texture is best when fresh or chilled only.
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