Name: Layered Queso Blanco and Taco Dip
Ingredients: 1 cup cream cheese (softened): This forms the creamy base of the dip, offering a luscious texture that pairs well with the other flavors.; 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy kick and creaminess, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.; 2 cups shredded white cheese (Monterey Jack or Queso Blanco): Essential for the cheesy layer, this component adds depth and flavor.; 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained & rinsed): These beans contribute protein and a unique earthiness that complements the creamy elements.; 1 cup salsa: This adds a zesty flavor, along with freshness from the tomatoes and peppers that enhance the overall taste.; 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh/canned): Tomatoes boost the dish’s freshness and are a crucial part of the layering.; 1 small onion (finely chopped): Adds crunch and a sweet bite that enhances the flavor profile.; 1 cup shredded lettuce: Provides a crisp texture as a final layer, making it visually appealing.; 1 tbsp taco seasoning: This seasoning infuses the dish with classic taco flavors, unifying all ingredients beautifully.; Fresh cilantro (optional): Offers a bright freshness that enhances the overall flavor if used.; Tortilla chips for serving: The perfect vehicle to scoop up all the rich and flavorful layers.

Description

Enjoy a layered queso blanco and taco dip! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect appetizer for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cream cheese (softened): This forms the creamy base of the dip, offering a luscious texture that pairs well with the other flavors.
1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy kick and creaminess, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
2 cups shredded white cheese (Monterey Jack or Queso Blanco): Essential for the cheesy layer, this component adds depth and flavor.
1 can black beans (15 oz, drained & rinsed): These beans contribute protein and a unique earthiness that complements the creamy elements.
1 cup salsa: This adds a zesty flavor, along with freshness from the tomatoes and peppers that enhance the overall taste.
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh/canned): Tomatoes boost the dish’s freshness and are a crucial part of the layering.
1 small onion (finely chopped): Adds crunch and a sweet bite that enhances the flavor profile.
1 cup shredded lettuce: Provides a crisp texture as a final layer, making it visually appealing.
1 tbsp taco seasoning: This seasoning infuses the dish with classic taco flavors, unifying all ingredients beautifully.
Fresh cilantro (optional): Offers a bright freshness that enhances the overall flavor if used.
Tortilla chips for serving: The perfect vehicle to scoop up all the rich and flavorful layers.

Instructions

Combine Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, take 1 cup softened cream cheese and 1 cup sour cream. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them together until the mix is smooth and creamy with no lumps. This will be the base layer of your dip!
Spread the Base: Once blended, spread the cream cheese and sour cream mixture evenly in a glass baking dish or serving platter, creating the first layer.
Add Shredded Cheese: Take 1 cup shredded white cheese and layer half of it over the cream cheese mixture. This melty cheese layer adds a rich flavor to the dip.
Incorporate the Black Beans: Evenly distribute 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed) over the cheese layer, allowing their earthiness to shine through.
Top with Salsa: Pour 1 cup salsa over the black beans, spreading it gently for an even coverage.
Add Diced Tomatoes: Top the salsa layer with 1 cup diced tomatoes, whether fresh or canned, allowing their juices to mingle with the other ingredients.
Finishing Touches: Add the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Then sprinkle 1 small finely chopped onion and 1 tbsp taco seasoning over the cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution.
Chill the Dip: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serve with Style: Before serving, add 1 cup shredded lettuce on top for a pop of color and crunch, along with freshly chopped cilantro (optional). Serve it chilled with a side of tortilla chips.