Name: Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz brick style cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 1 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 teaspoons taco seasoning; 1 1/2 cups thick salsa (strained if thin/liquidy); 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

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Introduction

This Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s creamy, tangy, and full of flavor. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it combines smooth cream cheese, zesty salsa, and melted cheese for an irresistible treat.

A close-up image shows a woman's hand dipping a yellow tortilla chip into a white bowl filled with layers of food. The bottom layer is chunky red salsa, topped with a thick layer of shredded yellow and white cheese covering the salsa almost entirely. The edges of the bowl and some yellow tortilla chips can be seen blurred in the background, all set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz brick style cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
1 cup sour cream
1 1/2 teaspoons taco seasoning
1 1/2 cups thick salsa
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning to a medium-sized bowl.
Step 2: Beat the cream cheese together with the other ingredients using a handheld electric mixer until smooth and uniform, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture into an even layer in the bottom of a 9″ round or square baking dish.
Step 4: If the cream cheese is very soft, refrigerate the first layer for 30 minutes before adding salsa. If it’s firm, proceed to the next step immediately.
Step 5: If the salsa is thin or watery, strain it to remove excess liquid.
Step 6: Spread the drained or chunky salsa evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 7: Top with shredded Mexican blend cheese, spreading it out evenly.
Step 8: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for best flavor and texture before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add some chopped jalapeños to the salsa layer or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the cream cheese mixture.
Try layering with finely chopped green onions or black olives for added flavor and texture.
If you prefer a smoother salsa layer, blend the salsa slightly before straining.
Use a clear glass dish to showcase the colorful layers beautifully when serving.

Storage

Store the dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving if the layers have settled. It’s best served chilled, and reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cheese.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a layered cheese and salsa dip in a white ceramic dish. The bottom layer is dark brown refried beans, followed by a layer of bright red salsa with visible tomato chunks and small green bits of herbs. Above the salsa, there is a smooth layer of creamy white sour cream. The top layer is a generous covering of shredded yellow and white cheese, creating a textured and colorful topping. The dish has a portion scooped out, showing the distinct layers clearly against the white marbled surface underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of salsa?

Yes, you can use any thick salsa you prefer. Just make sure to strain thin or watery salsa to prevent the dip from becoming soggy.

Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare the dip and refrigerate it before serving. Allowing it to chill for 30 minutes enhances the flavors and helps the layers set well.