Boat Dip Rotel Ranch (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 450 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 - 28 g ranch seasoning mix
03 - 285 g canned diced tomatoes and green chilies (such as Rotel), drained, 1 tablespoon liquid reserved
04 - 240 ml sour cream

→ Mix-ins

05 - 110 g shredded cheddar cheese
06 - 3 green onions, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for heat)

→ Seasonings & Garnish

09 - 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Place softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer set to medium speed, beat for 30 seconds until completely smooth and creamy.
02 - Add ranch seasoning mix and beat with the mixer for another 30 seconds until fully integrated.
03 - Drain diced tomatoes and green chilies, retaining 1 tablespoon of liquid for added flavor. Using a spatula, gently fold in the drained tomatoes, reserved liquid, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, minced garlic, hot sauce (if desired), black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix just until evenly combined to preserve the tomatoes' texture.
04 - Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add extra hot sauce for spice or a splash of lime juice for brightness if desired.
05 - Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld thoroughly. For immediate serving, chilling may be skipped, but flavor integration will be improved with rest.
06 - Before serving, stir the dip once to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. Garnish with reserved green onions, a light sprinkle of smoked paprika, and a small handful of extra shredded cheese if desired.

# Notes:

01 - For a milder flavor, select mild diced tomatoes; use original or hot varieties for added heat.
02 - Ensuring the cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature helps create a lump-free, smooth base.
03 - Presentation in a hollowed-out round bread loaf creates an appealing bread bowl for parties.
04 - Serving immediately is possible if short on time, but chilling enhances the depth and balance of flavors.