Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 43 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Layered Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Featuring a creamy base blended with taco seasoning, topped with chunky salsa, cheddar cheese, and fresh vegetables, it offers a delightful mix of textures and bold flavors. Ready in under an hour with no baking required, this cold Mexican-inspired dip pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips.


Ingredients

Scale

Dip Base

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning

Layers and Toppings

  • 1 cup salsa (thick and chunky preferred)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

To Serve

  • Tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, forming a creamy base for the dip.
  2. Layer the Dip: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch serving dish or a shallow pie plate to create the first layer.
  3. Add Salsa Layer: Spoon the salsa over the cream cheese layer, then gently spread it out to cover the entire surface evenly without mixing the layers.
  4. Top with Cheese and Vegetables: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the salsa layer, followed by layers of chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, green onions, and, if using, fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the chilled dip with tortilla chips for dipping.

Notes

  • Choose your favorite salsa heat level—mild, medium, or hot—according to your preference.
  • For additional depth, consider adding a layer of guacamole or refried beans between the cream cheese and salsa layers.
  • This dip is best served cold and can be prepared up to one day in advance for convenience.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired