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This tangy, smooth dip blends creamy ranch with tasty southwestern elements, making it a crowd-pleasing starter for any get-together.
I've taken this to so many parties and the bowl always ends up empty before anything else.
Key Ingredient Breakdown
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat at room temp for best results
- Fire-Roasted Corn: Gives a wonderful smoky touch
- Green Chiles: Pick mild or spicy depending on what you like
- Ranch Mix: A new packet works best for top flavor
- Sour Cream: Stick with full-fat for the creamiest outcome
Step-by-Step Guide
- Base Preparation (5 minutes):
- Make sure cream cheese is fully softened. Whip it until perfectly smooth. Get rid of every lump before you mix in other stuff.
- Mixing Components (5 minutes):
- Make sure canned items are well drained. Put in ingredients bit by bit. Stir completely after each addition.
- Adding Final Ingredients (5 minutes):
- Mix in cheese at the end. Clean sides of bowl as you go. Taste and tweak flavors. Wrap it up tight.
- Chilling (2-3 hours):
- Give it enough time for flavors to come together. Keep tightly covered. Store away from foods with strong smells.
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I love throwing in chopped jalapeños for some heat in my version. The soft cream cheese really tones down the spiciness just right.
Smart Temperature Advice
Take it out of the fridge half an hour before guests arrive.
Planning Ahead Options
You can whip this up two days early.
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Ways To Serve
Hot tortilla chips taste amazing with this cool dip.
This dip has turned into my go-to party contribution. The trick is using good ingredients and letting it sit in the fridge long enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long before can I prep this?
- You can make it a day in advance. Store in the fridge and stir before eating.
- → Can I use low-fat options?
- Sure! Light cream cheese and sour cream work fine but aren’t as creamy.
- → What’s the story behind the name?
- It got popular with folks bringing it for lake or boating trips.
- → How can I tone down the heat?
- Choose mild Rotel and leave out the chiles to keep it milder.
- → What should I serve it with?
- Tortilla chips, veggies, or even pita chips are awesome dippers.