Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Creamy, tangy, and cheesy, it’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Ready in just a few steps, it pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips.

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

1. Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning.
2. Step 2: Using a handheld electric mixer, beat the cream cheese mixture until smooth and uniform, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9-inch round or square baking dish.
4. Step 4: If the cream cheese layer is very soft, refrigerate for 30 minutes before adding the next layer. If it feels firm, proceed to the next step.
5. Step 5: If your salsa is thin or watery, strain it to remove excess liquid before spreading.
6. Step 6: Spread the drained or chunky salsa evenly over the cream cheese layer.
7. Step 7: Top the salsa with shredded Mexican blend cheese spread evenly.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the layers set before serving.

Tips & Variations

• If you like extra spice, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the salsa layer.
• Substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier, lighter dip.
• Use your favorite salsa—chunky, smooth, mild, or spicy—to customize the flavor.
• For added texture, sprinkle some chopped green onions or black olives on top before serving.

Storage

Store leftover dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled but can be brought to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Allow the dip to sit for about 30 minutes after assembling to let the flavors meld and layers set.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip goes great with tortilla chips, pita chips, fresh vegetables like carrot sticks and cucumber slices, or even warm soft pretzels.

Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 79 reviews

This Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer combining smooth cream cheese mixed with sour cream and taco seasoning, layered with fresh salsa and topped with melted Mexican blend cheese. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it offers a delightful blend of textures and zesty flavors in every bite.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dip
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Layer

• 8 oz brick style cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 teaspoons taco seasoning

Salsa Layer

• 1 1/2 cups thick salsa

Topping

• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

Instructions

1. Combine Cream Cheese Mixture: Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning to a medium-sized bowl.
2. Beat Ingredients: Use a handheld electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and other ingredients together until smooth and uniform, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Spread Cream Cheese Layer: Transfer the cream cheese mixture to the bottom of a 9-inch round or square baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
4. Chill if Needed: If the cream cheese was very soft (easily pressing a finger through it), refrigerate the first layer for 30 minutes before adding salsa. If still firm, proceed immediately.
5. Prepare Salsa: If your salsa is thin or liquidy, strain it through a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl to remove excess liquid.
6. Layer Salsa: Spread the drained or chunky salsa in an even layer on top of the cream cheese mixture.
7. Add Cheese Topping: Evenly spread the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the salsa layer.
8. Serve or Chill: Serve immediately if desired, or refrigerate the assembled dip for 30 minutes for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use thick salsa or strain thin salsa to avoid a watery dip.
• Softening cream cheese to room temperature ensures easy mixing and smooth texture.
• Chilling the first layer helps it set for cleaner layering.
• This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or crackers.
• For extra spice, add diced jalapeños in the salsa layer.

Keywords: Layered dip, cream cheese dip, salsa dip, party appetizer, Mexican dip