WHAT’S FOR DIPPING?
4 Ingredient Taco Dip (Boat Dip)
Array/5
COOK TIME
TOTAL TIME
2 minutes
SERVINGS
12-14 servings
This easy 4 Ingredient Taco Dip, lovingly known in our house as “Boat Dip“, is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with classic taco flavor. It stirs together in minutes and always disappears fast whenever I make it! Great for when you need a quick appetizer for any gathering!
We lovingly call this recipe Boat Dip and honestly, I’m not even sure why! Maybe it’s because it tastes especially delicious out on the water, but honestly, it’s just as good on solid ground too. No matter where you are, this easy, creamy taco dip is one you’ll end up making again and again, especially if you’re short on time.
With just four simple ingredients, you can stir everything together in a bowl and start dipping right away. The creamy sour cream, bold taco seasoning, and zesty Rotel come together for that classic Mexican flavor that feels familiar and a little nostalgic, like something you grew up eating at midwest family parties. It’s even better when you scoop it up with Fritos or tortilla chips (trust me, Fritos are the move, salty, crunchy, and gives you the perfect bite).
The best part is that it can be made ahead of time in just minutes so you can bring it to just about any gathering. It’s the kind of dip that fits right in at summer barbecues, game day parties, picnics, or parties. No baking, no fancy steps, just a quick mix, a chill in the fridge, and a delicious appetizer that is ready to go. Cover it and let it sit until you’re ready to serve, because the flavors only get better the longer it sits!
Taco Dip Ingredients
Sour Cream – The creamy, tangy base that makes this dip so rich and scoopable. I like using full-fat for the best flavor and texture.
Taco Seasoning – All the bold taco spices you love packed into one easy packet. You can adjust the amount if you want it a little more mild or a little more bold, or you can use your own homemade taco seasoning.
Rotel (drained) – A can of diced tomatoes and green chiles that brings a pop of flavor and a little zip. Just don’t forget to drain it so your dip stays thick and perfect for dipping.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds that salty, cheesy goodness that makes every bite even better. Freshly shredded cheese tastes much better, but a bag of pre-shredded saves time and still works great.
How To Make Easy Taco Dip
Mix the ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the full container of sour cream, the packet of taco seasoning, the drained can of Rotel, and the shredded cheddar cheese.
Combine everything: Use a spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients together until they are fully combined and evenly mixed. Make sure the taco seasoning is well incorporated into the sour cream for the best flavor.
Chill if needed: If you’re making the dip ahead of time, cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. The flavors will continue to blend and get even better as it chills.
Serve and enjoy: When you’re ready to serve, give the dip a quick stir and transfer it to a serving bowl if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping foods. Enjoy!
Expert Tips
Drain the Rotel really well to keep the dip thick and scoopable instead of watery.
Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything mixes together evenly. Ingredients can easily be stuck to the bottom of the bowl!
If the dip looks a little too thick after chilling, give it a good stir and let it sit out for 5-10 minutes to soften up.
Freshly shredded cheese blends more easily into the dip and gives a slightly creamier texture.
If you’re serving outside or at a party, keep the bowl on ice or pop it back in the fridge after a couple of hours to keep it fresh.A wide, shallow serving bowl makes it easier for people to scoop without digging and breaking chips.
A quick taste before chilling can help you adjust the seasoning if needed as sometimes taco seasoning brands vary a little in saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this easy taco dip with all kinds of dippers depending on the crowd and occasion. Pair crunchy veggies with hearty chips like Fritos so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For parties, set up a simple dip board by placing the taco dip in the center and surrounding it with a mix of chips, crackers, and fresh veggies for an easy and fun appetizer spread!
Fritos Scoops
Regular tortilla chips
Flavored tortilla chips (like lime or spicy)
Pita chips
Pretzel crisps
Mini bell pepper halves
Baby carrots
Celery sticks
Cucumber slices
Sliced jicama
Crackers (like Ritz or buttery round crackers)
Bagel chips
Plantain chips
Mini naan breads or naan dippers
Ways To Customize
Swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt to add extra protein while keeping the creamy texture.
Stir in a handful of diced green onions for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
Use a spicy taco seasoning packet if you want to kick up the heat without adding extra ingredients.
Add a drained can of black beans or pinto beans for extra texture, fiber, and protein.
Fold in some drained corn for a little sweetness and extra crunch.
Swap cheddar cheese for a Mexican blend or pepper jack to change up the flavor.
Top the finished dip with chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños right before serving.
Use a can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of Rotel if you want a smokier flavor.
Layer the dip in a clear serving dish and sprinkle extra shredded cheese or sliced olives on top to make it party-ready.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover taco dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, as some slight separation can happen as it sits. This dip is best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen, since the sour cream base can separate and become watery and grainy once thawed.
FAQ
How far in advance can I make taco dip?
You can make it up to two days ahead of serving. Store it covered in the fridge and stir before serving if needed.
Do I need to drain the Rotel before mixing it in?
Yes, draining the Rotel is important to keep the dip thick and prevent it from becoming watery.
Can I use low-fat sour cream instead of regular?
You can use low-fat sour cream, but the dip may turn out a little thinner and less rich in flavor.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar cheese works best for flavor, but you can swap in a Mexican blend or pepper jack if you like a little extra spice.
How do I thicken taco dip if it gets too runny?
Mix in a few more handfuls of shredded cheese or chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm it back up.
More Easy Party Dip Recipes
Fried Pickle Ranch Dip
Salsa Cream Cheese Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Print
Boat Dip (Taco Dip)
A simple and delicious Mexican dip we call Boat Dip. Made with Sour Cream, Rotel, and taco seasoning. A perfect and easy dip recipe!
Ingredients
1 container Sour Cream (16 ounces)
1 packet Taco Seasoning (1.25 oz packet)
1 can Rotel, drained
2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, all the container of sour cream, packet of taco seasoning, can of Rotel (drained), and cheddar cheese. Mix together until combined.
2. Serve with Fritos, Tortilla Chips, or Veggies. (I suggest Fritos)
Notes
Make Ahead- mix all together and store in an airtight container up to 2 days before serving.
Storing- Place leftover dip in an airtight container and store in the fridge up to 3 days.
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