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Boat Dip (Rotel Ranch Dip) Recipe

4.9 from 76 reviews

Boat Dip, also known as Rotel Ranch Dip, is a creamy and flavorful party favorite perfect for serving with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. This easy no-cook dip combines zesty Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies with creamy cheese, sour cream, and savory bacon, enhanced by ranch seasoning and fresh green onions for a deliciously simple appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use a spoon or mixer to blend them until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  2. Add flavorful ingredients: To the creamy base, add the drained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and cooked crumbled bacon. These ingredients give the dip its signature zesty and savory profile.
  3. Mix thoroughly: Stir all ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and evenly distributed for a consistent flavor in every bite.
  4. Incorporate green onions: Gently fold in the chopped green onions to add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a slight crunch without overpowering the dip.
  5. Chill to meld flavors: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to blend harmoniously.
  6. Serve chilled: Once chilled, serve the dip cold with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping, making it a perfect party or snack time treat.

Notes

  • For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a richer dip.
  • Make sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes well to avoid excess liquid in the dip.
  • Can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator to enhance flavor development.
  • For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
  • Vegetarian adaptation: omit bacon and add extra cheese or diced bell peppers.
  • Serve with your choice of dippers: tortilla chips, breadsticks, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.

Keywords: Rotel dip, ranch dip, boat dip, party dip, appetizer, creamy dip, bacon dip, Tex-Mex dip