This easy cream cheese and salsa dip is a quick, creamy appetizer made with just five ingredients. It's one of those back-pocket recipes I come back to again and again.
It uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand: just a block of cream cheese, a jar of your favorite salsa, shredded cheddar, taco seasoning, and pickled jalapeños. No baking or cooking required, just mix, layer, chill, and serve.
It’s a great dip to keep things easy and crowd-friendly. This cold dip is a perfect appetizer for game day, parties, or any time you need a fast, no-fuss dip. If you enjoy this cream cheese salsa dip recipe, you HAVE to try my slow cooker jalapeño popper dip for your Super Bowl party.
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Shortcut Notes
- No cooking required: This is a cold dip. No oven, no stove, no figuring out how to reheat dip after transporting it to the party. Just mix and chill.
- Only five ingredients: This 5 ingredient dip keeps it simple with easy-to-find, shortcut staples.
- Quick prep: You can make the dip in under 10 minutes. Chill briefly, and it’s ready to serve.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Cream cheese: Regular block-style cream cheese creates a smooth, creamy base for the dip.
- Chunky salsa: Use your favorite jarred chunky salsa for the best texture.
- Taco seasoning: A convenient spice blend that adds classic taco flavor without needing multiple spices.
- Sharp cheddar: Shredded.
- Sliced pickled jalapeños: For tangy heat and a pop of color. Be sure to drain them before using.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chunky salsa, and taco seasoning either with a spatula or a hand mixer. Mix until smooth and evenly combined. The mixture should be creamy but still have texture from the salsa.
Spread the mixture into an even layer in a shallow glass pie dish (or an 8x8 inch baking dish).
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar evenly over the top. Top with sliced pickled jalapeños.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together. Serve with tortilla chips, carrots, celery, or bell pepper.
Substitutions
- Cream cheese: You can use fat-free, reduced fat, or even Neufchâtel for a lighter version.
- Salsa: Pick your favorite jar of salsa. Any chunky salsa works, mild, hot salsa, or picante depending on your preference.
- Taco seasoning: Homemade taco seasoning or fajita seasoning can be used in equal amounts.
- Cheddar cheese: Try a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack shredded cheese.
- Pickled jalapeños: Leave them off for a milder dip or dice them up and put some into the salsa mixture for an even spicier dip.
Behind the Recipe
Creamy salsa dip is a go-to dip when I want to bring something to a party but I don't have a lot of time or don't want to worry about heating a dip.
My top tip is to make sure your cream cheese is fully softened. Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about an hour OR unwrap the block and microwave it on a plate in 10 to 15-second intervals at 50% power.
Did you make this recipe? I’d love to hear what you think! Please take a moment to leave a rating and review—it helps me create high-quality recipes and lets others know what to expect.
FAQ
Yes, you can make this dip a day in advance. Just cover and chill until ready to serve.
Yes, you can swap in part of the cream cheese for sour cream to make it lighter and tangier.
📖 Recipe
Cream Cheese and Salsa Dip
Video
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup medium chunky salsa
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ¼ cup sliced pickled jalapeños drained
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chunky salsa, and taco seasoning either with a spatula or a hand mixer. Mix until smooth and evenly combined. The mixture should be creamy but still have texture from the salsa.
- Spread the mixture into an even layer in a shallow glass pie dish (or an 8x8 inch baking dish).
- Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar evenly over the top. Top with sliced pickled jalapeños.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together. Serve with tortilla chips, carrots, celery, or bell pepper.
Notes
Nutrition
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Kelsey Smith says
I hope ya'll love this easy recipe. If you give it a try, leave me a rating!