Easy Party Taco Dip (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Dip Base

01 - 16 oz sour cream or Greek yogurt
02 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
03 - 3 tablespoons taco seasoning blend (homemade or store-bought packet)

→ Fresh Toppings

04 - 1½ cups fresh lettuce, finely chopped
05 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
06 - ½ cup bell peppers or jalapeños, chopped (save 2 tablespoons for garnish)
07 - ⅓ cup black olives, sliced (reserve 2 tablespoons for final topping)
08 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

→ Optional Extras

09 - Fresh guacamole for serving
10 - Extra sour cream for dolloping
11 - Sweet corn kernels for texture

→ For Serving

12 - Yellow corn tortilla chips or baked varieties
13 - Warm quesadillas, cut into triangles

# Instructions:

01 - Start by ensuring your cream cheese is completely soft - this makes all the difference for a silky smooth dip. Use an electric mixer to whip together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and taco seasoning until the mixture is perfectly creamy and well combined.
02 - Spread your seasoned cream cheese mixture evenly into a 9 or 10-inch pie dish, creating a smooth, even base layer that reaches all the edges.
03 - Layer on the fresh chopped lettuce first, followed by the diced tomatoes, peppers or jalapeños, and sliced olives. Finish with a generous sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
04 - Use those reserved peppers and olives you set aside earlier to create an attractive garnish on top of the cheese - this makes your dip look restaurant-worthy!
05 - Your taco dip is ready to serve immediately with crispy tortilla chips, or you can cover it and chill in the refrigerator until your guests arrive. Either way, it's going to be a hit!

# Notes:

01 - For ultra-smooth results, let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave unwrapped for 10 seconds to soften quickly
02 - This dip tastes even better after chilling for an hour - the flavors meld together beautifully
03 - Perfect party appetizer that can easily feed a crowd and disappears fast
04 - Pairs wonderfully with pineapple salsa or black bean and corn salsa for extra flavor variety