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Boat Dip (Rotel Ranch Dip)

Cold, creamy, and bursting with zesty flavor, this no-cook Boat Dip combines cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese into an addictive party appetizer.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 portions
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 190
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies 10 oz, drained thoroughly
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley optional
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper or jalapeño optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • hand mixer or sturdy spoon
  • Fine-mesh strainer

Method
 

  1. Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for 20-30 minutes for easier mixing.
  2. In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sour cream with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until completely smooth.
  3. Drain the Rotel tomatoes thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer, pressing gently to release excess moisture.
  4. Stir the drained Rotel tomatoes into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
  5. Add shredded cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning mix, stirring to combine thoroughly.
  6. If using, gently fold in optional cilantro, parsley, bell pepper, or jalapeño.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving (2-3 hours or overnight is even better for flavor development).
  8. Stir before serving and pair with tortilla chips, vegetables, crackers, or pretzel crisps.

Notes

Drain Rotel completely to avoid watery dip. Use Original Rotel for balanced flavor, Hot for spice lovers, or Mild for heat-sensitive guests. Freshly shredded cheese creates better texture than pre-shredded. Store in airtight container for up to 4-5 days, flavors improve after the first day. Not suitable for freezing as dairy separates when thawed.