Description
This Layered Ranch Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. It features a smooth ranch-infused cream cheese base topped with layers of shredded cheddar, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, olives, green onions, and crispy bacon. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for an irresistible snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Base
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
Layers
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (roma or grape)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon (optional)
To Serve
- Tortilla chips or fresh veggies
Instructions
- Make the Creamy Ranch Base: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix until smooth and creamy. Using a hand mixer helps achieve a fluffy texture.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the ranch base evenly in the bottom of a shallow serving dish or pie plate.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Layer the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the ranch base.
- Add Lettuce: Spread a layer of shredded lettuce over the cheddar cheese.
- Add Tomatoes: Sprinkle chopped tomatoes evenly on top of the lettuce.
- Add Olives, Green Onions, and Bacon: Top the dip with sliced black olives (if using), chopped green onions, and crispy bacon crumbles for extra flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the layered dip for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set. Serve chilled with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon.
- Try adding other toppings like diced bell peppers for extra crunch.
- The dip can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- If you prefer a spicier dip, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ranch base mixture.
- Using fresh veggies for serving adds a healthy balance to this creamy dip.
