Southwest Ranch Dip Recipe
Introduction
Southwest Ranch Dip is a creamy, zesty treat perfect for any gathering. Combining classic ranch flavors with a spicy kick of Rotel tomatoes and cumin, this dip is easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 8-ounce package softened cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 package ranch seasoning
- 1 10-ounce can Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro
- Dash of kosher salt
- Dash of hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, cumin, chopped parsley or cilantro, kosher salt, and hot sauce if using into the bowl of a food processor.
- Step 2: Pulse the mixture for about 30 seconds until smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the dip into a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Serve chilled with fresh vegetables and chips for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- If you don’t have a food processor, an immersion blender or stand blender can be used to achieve a smooth texture.
- For extra heat, add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Swap cilantro for parsley if you prefer a milder, fresher flavor.
- To make it lighter, use reduced-fat sour cream and cream cheese.
Storage
Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving again. It’s best served chilled but can be brought to room temperature for about 15 minutes if preferred. Do not freeze, as the texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the dip a few hours or even a day in advance improves the flavor as the ingredients have time to blend together.
What can I serve with Southwest Ranch Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with fresh cut veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, as well as tortilla chips, pita chips, or crackers.
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Southwest Ranch Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups (serves 8–10 as a dip) 1x
Description
This Southwest Ranch Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer combining the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies with the cool smoothness of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and sour cream. It’s quick to prepare using a food processor and ideal for parties or casual snacking when served with fresh vegetables or chips.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounce) package softened cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 package ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro
- Dash of kosher salt
- Dash of hot sauce (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, cumin, chopped parsley or cilantro, kosher salt, and optional hot sauce into the bowl of a food processor.
- Process Dip: Pulse the mixture for about 30 seconds until the dip is smooth and well blended. If you do not have a food processor, use an immersion blender or stand blender as an alternative to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Chill the Dip: Pour the dip into a serving bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to thicken.
- Serve: After chilling, serve the Southwest Ranch Dip alongside fresh vegetables and your favorite chips for dipping.
Notes
- The dip can be made up to a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Adjust the hot sauce quantity to your desired spice level or omit if you prefer a milder dip.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley can be substituted or omitted according to your taste preference.
- If you like a thinner dip, add a splash of milk or additional sour cream when blending.
- Use kosher salt to control sodium content better; regular table salt can be used in a pinch but start with less.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Keywords: Southwest Ranch Dip, creamy ranch dip, easy party dip, Rotel dip, appetizer, creamy vegetable dip
