Name: Creamy Taco Dip with Cheddar, Tomato, and Lettuce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 16 oz sour cream; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tomato, diced; Shredded lettuce

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Taco dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make and full of bold flavors. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with taco seasoning, it’s perfect for parties or casual snacking. Ready in minutes, this dip pairs beautifully with crunchy tortilla chips.

A white round plate on a white marbled surface holds a layered dip surrounded by yellow tortilla chips. The dip has three visible layers: the bottom layer is light and creamy white, the middle layer is bright orange shredded cheese, and the top layer is a mix of chopped pale green lettuce and small red tomato pieces scattered evenly. The dip is spread flat and the colors contrast clearly against the white plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz cream cheese, softened
16 oz sour cream
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tomato, diced
Shredded lettuce

Instructions

Step 1: In the bowl of a mixer, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, light, and creamy.
Step 2: Spread the creamy taco mixture evenly into a serving dish or a 9×13-inch pan.
Step 3: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the creamy base. Then add a layer of shredded lettuce and spread the diced tomato on top.
Step 4: For best flavor, cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve chilled with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a layer of black beans or sliced black olives under the cheese.
Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for a different taste.
Spice it up by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy base.
Make it vegetarian-friendly by ensuring the taco seasoning is meat-free.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, stir gently, or serve chilled straight from the fridge. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept cold to maintain texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a layered dip starting with a smooth, pale base spread evenly across the surface. On top, there is a layer of shredded bright orange cheese scattered thickly, followed by a layer of light green shredded lettuce spread out evenly but loosely. Small pieces of fresh red tomatoes are sprinkled all over the top, adding small pops of vibrant color. Surrounding the plate are many pale yellow tortilla chips spread out casually on a white marbled surface, with part of a blue and white cloth visible in one corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, making the dip a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the texture will be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

Creamy Taco Dip with Cheddar, Tomato, and Lettuce Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 74 reviews

This easy-to-make Taco Dip combines a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning topped with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips for a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Author: Ruby
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Category: Dip
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale

Creamy Base

16 oz cream cheese, softened
16 oz sour cream
1 packet taco seasoning

Toppings

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tomato, diced
Shredded lettuce

Instructions

Make the creamy base: In the bowl of your mixer, combine 16 oz softened cream cheese, 16 oz sour cream, and 1 packet of taco seasoning. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, light, and creamy.
Assemble the dip: Spread the creamy taco mixture evenly into a serving dish or a 9×13-inch pan to create an even layer.
Add the toppings: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Then layer shredded lettuce and top with the diced tomato to add fresh texture and flavor.
Chill (optional): For best flavor and easier dipping, cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the taco dip chilled or at room temperature with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping, perfect for parties or casual snacking.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
You can customize the toppings by adding sliced olives, jalapeños, or green onions.
For a spicier dip, add extra taco seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy base.
This dip can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated to deepen flavors.

Keywords: Taco Dip, party dip, creamy dip, Mexican appetizer, sour cream dip, cheese dip