Boat Dip Rotel Ranch

Featured in: Quick Celebration Dishes

This creamy, tangy dip brings together sour cream, cream cheese, Rotel tomatoes, ranch seasoning, and cheddar for a bold and flavorful snack option. Jalapeños add a zesty kick, while green onions and cilantro provide fresh notes. After gently mixing the ingredients, the dip chills in the fridge to blend flavors, resulting in a smooth, crave-worthy appetizer. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks at your next gathering, and enjoy its irresistible taste that will disappear quickly from any table.

Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:18:00 GMT
Creamy Boat Dip with zesty Rotel tomatoes and cheddar, perfect for snacking.  Save Pin
Creamy Boat Dip with zesty Rotel tomatoes and cheddar, perfect for snacking. | fabulousdishesby.com

Boat Dip (Rotel Ranch Dip) is a creamy, zesty, and utterly delicious appetizer thats perfect for parties, game days, or casual snacking. Made with simple ingredients and no cooking required, this dip is bound to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

I first tried Boat Dip at a neighborhood potluck, and it was gone before I could even get a second scoop. Since then, it's become my go-to recipe for gatherings because everyone asks for it!

Ingredients

  • Rotel tomatoes: 1 can (10 oz), drained
  • Sour cream: 1 cup
  • Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
  • Ranch seasoning mix: 1 packet
  • Diced jalapeños (optional): ¼ cup
  • Chopped green onions: ¼ cup
  • Chopped cilantro (optional): 2 tablespoons
  • Tortilla chips or crackers: for serving

Instructions

Mix the dairy base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, and ranch seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add veggies and cheese:
Fold in the drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and chopped green onions.
Combine everything:
Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Garnish and serve:
Before serving, stir well and garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks.
Delicious Boat Dip served with crunchy tortilla chips, ideal for game day gatherings.  Save Pin
Delicious Boat Dip served with crunchy tortilla chips, ideal for game day gatherings. | fabulousdishesby.com

Making this dip together with my kids is one of our favorite weekend traditions. It's always fun to taste-test and decide what veggies or seasonings to add in!

Serving Suggestions

Pair the dip with crunchy tortilla chips, assorted crackers, or crisp veggie sticks for a tasty spread.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Stir well before serving again.

Variations

Try mixing in cooked bacon bits, swapping cheddar for pepperjack cheese, or adding chopped bell peppers for extra color.

Zesty Rotel Ranch Dip in a colorful bowl, garnished with green onions and cilantro. Save Pin
Zesty Rotel Ranch Dip in a colorful bowl, garnished with green onions and cilantro. | fabulousdishesby.com

This creamy dip disappears fast, so make a double batch if you're hosting a crowd. Enjoy every scoop!

Recipe FAQs

Which type of tomatoes are used?

Rotel tomatoes, known for their diced texture and subtle spice, give this dip its distinct flavor.

Is this dip spicy?

You can add jalapeños for extra heat or leave them out for a milder taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to develop flavors. It can be chilled overnight.

What's the best way to serve it?

Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or a variety of crunchy fresh veggies for dipping.

Are there any garnish options?

Chopped cilantro or additional green onions add freshness and visual appeal before serving.

Boat Dip Rotel Ranch

Creamy Rotel dip with ranch, cheddar, and jalapeños. Ideal for parties or casual bites.

Prep Duration
10 min
0
Overall duration
10 min
Posted by Fabulous dishes by Vanessa Collins


Skill level Easy

Cuisine style American

Servings made 8 Number of servings

Dietary details Vegetarian-friendly, No gluten

Ingredient list

Base Mixture

01 1 cup sour cream
02 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
03 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

Mix-Ins

01 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel tomatoes, drained
02 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
03 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (optional)
04 1/4 cup chopped green onions
05 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

For Serving

01 Tortilla chips or crackers

Step-by-Step Guide

Instruction 01

Prepare Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Blend thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.

Instruction 02

Incorporate Mix-Ins: Gently fold in drained Rotel tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeños, and green onions. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Instruction 03

Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to enhance flavor development.

Instruction 04

Garnish and Serve: Prior to serving, stir well and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Present with tortilla chips, crackers, or assorted fresh vegetables.

Equipment needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Take a moment to check each ingredient for possible allergens. Always reach out to a medical expert if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk and milk derivatives.

Nutrition details by serving

These details help guide you, but be sure to consult a healthcare professional when needed.
  • Kcal: 140
  • Lipids: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Protein: 4 g