This layered taco dip is a party favorite, with its creamy base and the perfect balance of flavors in every scoop. It’s a no-bake dip that’s packed with all things good and is super easy to make.
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Many recipes can lead to uneven layerings, which can result in bites that are too heavy on beans or too light on cheese. But this simple recipe has an even spread of layers, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors in every scoop!
Love tacos? Then you should also try my venison tacos and taco stuffed shells. They’re all about taco goodness and are definitely going to be a hit with your family and friends!
This recipe was found in the recipe book that was put together by members of the church I grew up in. It’s filled with great classics like this one.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: This recipe is a busy cook’s best friend. It takes just 15 minutes to prepare, and you can even make it a day in advance.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: I love how you can make this taco dip ahead of time which makes it perfect for gatherings and game days!
- Customizable: This recipe is easily customizable. You can add your favorite garnishes like black olives, lettuce, tomatoes, or peppers to make it your own and customize it according to your family’s preferences.
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of cream cheese, coriander, and garlic creates a base that’s both creamy and zesty, while the black beans, salsa, and cheddar cheese add layers of robust, savory flavors.
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Key Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: This gives the taco dip a creamy and rich base that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.
- Red Onions: They add a sharp and tangy flavor to the dip, and also provide a nice crunch.
- Coriander: This spice adds a warm, citrusy flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dip.
- Garlic: It gives the dip a delicious, savory flavor and a bit of a bite.
- Black Beans: They add a hearty, earthy flavor and a bit of texture to the dip.
- Jarred Salsa: This will give the dip a zesty, tomatoey flavor with a bit of a kick. You can use mild or hot, depending on your preference.
- Cheddar Cheese: It adds a rich, sharp flavor and a gooey, melted texture to the dip. Be sure to grate it yourself for the best melt.
- Garnish Options: Black olives, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers – the list goes on! These are optional but you can customize this dip however you like.
- Tortilla Chips (For Dipping): You can use any kind of chip you like, or even cut up some veggies for a healthier option.
Equipment
- Hand Mixer – You’ll need this to combine the cream cheese, onions, coriander, and garlic to make a smooth and flavorful base for your taco dip
- 9-inch Pie Plate – This is the perfect size to layer the ingredients and present your taco dip.
How to Make Taco Dip
Preparation
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, onions, coriander, and garlic. This will be the base of your taco dip, giving it a creamy and savory flavor.
Step 1 – Prep the Cream Cheese Mixture
Using a hand mixer, blend the ingredients until they are well combined and smooth. This will make it easier to spread the mixture in the pie plate.
Step 2 – Layer the Cream Cheese Mixture
Spread the cream cheese mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Make sure it’s spread out evenly to form a solid base for the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3 – Add the Black Beans
Next, top the cream cheese mixture with black beans. This will add a layer of hearty, earthy flavor to your dip.
Step 4 – Layer the Salsa and Cheddar Cheese
Now, add a layer of your favorite salsa on top of the black beans. After that, sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar cheese over the salsa. These layers will add a zesty, cheesy kick to your dip.
Step 5 – Garnish and Serve
Garnish your taco dip with your favorite toppings. You can use sliced black olives, chopped tomatoes, fresh cilantro, or sliced jalapenos. Get creative! Then, serve your dip with a side of tortilla chips.
Expert Tips
To make the best taco dip, prepare it a few hours before you plan to serve it. Allowing the flavors to meld together will result in a more delicious and cohesive dip.
Also, the consistency of the salsa you use will impact the final result. The more moisture in the salsa, the more moisture in the dip. I prefer using a thick salsa and draining it. This removes the excess water for a thicker dip.
Recipe Variations
- Spicier: If you’re a fan of spicy food, try adding some chopped jalapenos on top of your taco dip. You can also mix some hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick.
- Green Onions: Use green onions instead of red onions for a milder, fresher onion flavor in your taco dip.
- Fresh Coriander: If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, try using 2 tablespoons of fresh coriander (cilantro) instead of dried for a vibrant, zesty flavor.
What to Serve With
- If you’re hosting a family movie night, this dip is a perfect snack. Serve it with a variety of dipping options like tortilla chips, potato wedges, and veggie sticks.
- Take this dip to your next potluck or picnic. It’s easy to transport and a real crowd-pleaser. Just pack some extra tortilla chips for dipping.
- Take your movie night snacks to the next level by serving this taco dip with a big bowl of buttery popcorn or some homemade caramel corn!
Make Ahead Instructions
This recipe tastes even better when made ahead! The flavors come together resulting in an incredibly delicious dip. Make it as directed and then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. However, it’s best served within 12 hours of making it.
Recipe FAQs
You can use any type of salsa for this recipe, depending on your preference. Whether you like it mild, medium, or hot, the salsa will add a nice kick to the dip. You can also use homemade salsa if you have a favorite recipe. I prefer a thick salsa and drain it to remove excess water before adding to the dip.
No, you can use a pie plate, but you can also use a similar-sized dish. The key is to have a dish with enough surface area to layer the ingredients, making it easy for your guests to scoop up with a chip.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: After serving, you can store any leftover taco dip in the refrigerator. Simply transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dip as the texture of the cream cheese can change significantly upon thaw.
More Taco Recipes You’ll Enjoy
Serving Size
- What to Expect: This taco dip recipe yields a deliciously creamy dip with layers of flavors, enough to serve 8-10 people.
- How to Scale: If you’re planning a larger gathering, you can easily double the recipe and follow the instructions as directed. Just make sure your mixing bowl and pie plate are large enough to accommodate the increased quantity of ingredients.
Taco Dip
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 Cup red onions diced, divided
- ¾ teaspoon dried coriander
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 15 oz can black beans drained, rinsed
- 10 oz container of thick salsa
- ½ Cup grated cheddar cheese
- Garnish Options: Black Olives, Lettuce, Tomatoes and/or Peppers
- Tortilla chips for dipping
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, 1/2 Cup onions, coriander, and garlic. Whip together with a hand mixer. Spread the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Top with black beans, then salsa (see notes) and cheddar cheese. Garnish with your favorites including the remaining red onion.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Made this dip for our football party and it was a hit! I love getting all the ingredients on a tortilla chip for the most delicious bite. I recommend using a really thick salsa and draining it a bit if you’re like me and don’t like a juicy dip. Will be making this again soon as it’s a quick appetizer idea!