Introduction

This Cheese Salsa Dip is a quick and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Creamy, cheesy, and with a hint of spice, it pairs wonderfully with chips or fresh vegetables. Ready in just a few simple steps, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

A small black bowl filled with two main layers of dip sits on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. The base layer is a smooth, creamy, light orange dip that fills the bowl and has a slightly thick texture with specks of spices visible. On top, there is a chunky red salsa layer with small pieces of tomato, onion, and green chilies, garnished with fresh, bright green chopped cilantro leaves scattered across the salsa. Part of some light yellow tortilla chips can be seen in the top left corner, and some fresh green cilantro leaves are blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure it blends smoothly.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the salsa until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and finely chopped green onions gently to distribute evenly.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the dip firm up slightly.
Step 5: Serve chilled with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use spicy salsa for an extra kick or mild salsa for a sweeter flavor to suit your preference.
Mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños if you like additional heat.
Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a creamier, spicier variation.
For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir and chill again if needed. This dip is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.

How to Serve

A bowl filled with creamy hummus that is light orange in color with small green herb pieces mixed in, topped with a fresh salsa made of finely diced red tomatoes, green cucumbers, white onions, and dark green cilantro leaves, giving a colorful contrast. The bowl is gray and rough-textured, resting on a wooden round board, with yellow tortilla chips placed behind it. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with some green leafy herbs blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the dip at least an hour ahead helps the flavors meld, making it even tastier when served.

What can I use if I don’t have green onions?

If you don’t have green onions, finely chopped mild onion or chives make a good substitute without overpowering the dip.