Name: Favorite Taco Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 490 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature); ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup jarred salsa; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar and Monterey Jack); ¼ cup sliced black olives; 2-3 scallions (sliced)

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This creamy taco dip is staple appetizer in our house - especially during the holidays or on game days. It's easy to whip up, can be made ahead of time, and the toppings can be customized.

I might not be able to convince you that chips and dip qualify as a food group... but I can definitely assure you that this taco dip is GOLD!

I've been making this dip for over 25 years, and it continues to be a family favorite. Every holiday, this dip draws a crowd at the snack table! I often serve up a double batch because it disappears so quickly.

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Why you will love this

Taco flavors and toppings are always a crowd favorite!
The base dip has just three ingredients and three spices for seasoning.
Great recipe for make-ahead. Just add toppings when ready to serve.

For more dip favorites, try Caramelized Onion Dip and Bacon Horseradish Dip.

Ingredients

Cream cheese and sour cream - I use full-fat varieties but low-fat options work just fine, too.
Chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper provide the traditional taco flavor and a touch of heat.
Salsa - Use your favorite jarred salsa for ease and convenience. I prefer the smoother texture of restaurant-style salsa over chunky salsa.
Toppings - Shredded cheese, black olives, and scallions are my go-to garnishes. You can add any of your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, or jalapenos.

Step-by-step instructions

See the recipe card for complete instructions and ingredient amounts.

Add the cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, and spices to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Blend until well combined.

If time allows, refrigerate overnight so the flavors can blend.
Spread on a platter and garnish with toppings.

dip spread on a platter and topped with garnishes

Serve with tortilla chips.

Tips for making

Start with room temperature cream cheese. It will blend much more smoothly with the other ingredients.
Mix the dip using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. This creates a lighter, almost whipped and creamy consistency. A paddle attachment or hand mixer can also be used.
Make the dip ahead of time. This is not only convenient but allows for the flavors to blend. When ready to serve, spread on a platter and garnish with your favorite toppings.

Serving tips

Spreading on a platter gives more surface area for the yummy toppings!
For a festive holiday presentation, arrange red and green bell pepper slices around the edge of the platter.

Try adding this taco dip to any snack table - holiday, game day, or Cinco de Mayo - I'm sure it will be a crowd favorite.

Equipment

Stand mixer | Measuring cups and spoons

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