Easy Taco Dip
When it comes to fast, no-fuss party food, this Easy Taco Dip always comes through. It’s creamy, zesty, and layered with everything you love about tacos, just in dip form. Perfect for game day, casual hangouts, or backyard get-togethers, and the best part? It takes just 10 minutes to whip up.
What makes this a go-to recipe in my kitchen is how easily you can make it ahead. The creamy base pairs perfectly with crisp lettuce, melty cheese, juicy tomatoes, and that little kick from jalapeños. I like to prep it early, let it chill, and bring it out when guests arrive. It always disappears fast.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese – Room temperature. You can use any kind of cream cheese.
- Sour cream – I prefer full-fat sour cream but any kind will work.
- Taco seasoning – Or use a homemade taco seasoning, about 2 tablespoons.
Toppings
- Iceberg lettuce – Buy the pre-shredded lettuce if you want to save some time.
- Tex-Mex blend cheese – Because you’re not melting the cheese, pre-shredded works fine.
- Tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes are best but canned and drained will work in a pinch.
- Black olives – Drained.
- Jalapeño – If you like it spicy, go with a serrano chili.
How To Make This Easy Taco Dip
Scroll down for the full recipe card with exact measurements and printable instructions.
Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a large deep-sided mixing bowl and whipping it using a handheld electric mixer with beaters until it’s completely smooth. This ensures the base is creamy and lump-free.
Next, add the sour cream and taco seasoning right into the same bowl. Mix again until everything is well blended and turns a light tan color. An offset spatula is great here to scrape down the sides and get every bit incorporated.
Grab a clear clear glass quiche dish or tart pan with low sides with shallow sides and spoon the mixture into the bottom. Use an offset spatula to spread it into an even layer. The low sides make it easy for guests to scoop, and the glass shows off the layers.
Now for the toppings, sprinkle on the shredded lettuce, then add the Tex-Mex cheese blend, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped jalapeños. Try to spread everything out evenly for a pretty presentation and balanced flavor in every bite.
Cover the dish with a reusable silicone stretch lid or plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least an hour, or up to 4 hours, so it sets nicely.
Right before serving, place the dish on a lazy Susan or rotating tray for easy reach at parties. Add a bowl of thick tortilla chips on the side, and you’re ready to party.
Chef Jenn’s Tips
- Use a silicone flex-edge spatula to spread the layers smoothly, great for dips, frostings, and quick cleanup.
- A clear quiche dish makes the layers pop visually, and guests can see exactly what they’re scooping.
- Short on time? Swap diced tomatoes with store-bought pico de gallo and use pre-shredded lettuce.
- Want to bulk it up? Add a layer of refried beans or guacamole under the cream cheese mix before topping.
Recommended
Make It A Meal
Serve this dip with tortilla chips, a bowl of guacamole, or roll it into a burrito with leftover shredded chicken or beans. It also makes a fun taco salad topper if you’ve got extras!
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Keep in mind, the lettuce might soften over time. If you’re prepping ahead, add fresh toppings just before serving for the best crunch.
Easy Taco Dip
Equipment
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet taco seasoning about 2 tablespoons
Toppings
- ½ cup iceberg lettuce shredded
- ½ cup Tex-Mex blend cheese
- ½ cup tomatoes – diced
- ¼ cup sliced black olives drained
- 1 jalapeño diced
Instructions
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a deep mixing bowl with a handheld mixer.
- Add sour cream and taco seasoning and blend until smooth.
- Spread the mixture in a shallow glass dish. Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, olives, and jalapeños.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Notes
Chef Jenn’s Tips
- Use a flex-edge silicone spatula for smooth layering and easy cleanup. It’s a game-changer for dips and frostings.
- Choose a shallow glass dish for the best presentation so that guests can see every tasty layer.
- For a shortcut, use a pre-shredded lettuce mix and store-bought pico de gallo instead of chopped tomatoes.
- Add layers of refried beans or guacamole underneath the cheese mix for a heartier dip.
