Name: Baked Triple Cheese and Salsa Tortilla Chip Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 10 to 15 pieces corn tortilla chips (round or triangle); 1 can Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup (10.75-ounce); 1 packet fajita seasoning mix (1.25-ounce); 8 ounces shredded cheese (divided, mix of Mexican blend, Pepper Jack, or your choice); 8 ounces brick-style cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 8 ounces salsa (your favorite brand)

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a zesty kick, then look no further! This Baked Triple Cheese and Salsa Tortilla Chip Dip is the quintessential appetizer for game day, movie nights, or any gathering where comfort food reigns supreme. With layers of cheese and a hint of spice, it’s hard to resist diving right in. Serve it warm with your favorite corn tortilla chips, and watch it disappear in a flash!

Why It Deserves a Spot

This dip is not just another cheesy dish; it is a triple-threat of flavors that excite the taste buds. The combination of cheddar cheese soup, cream cheese, and shredded cheese melds together to create a rich, velvety texture that clings perfectly to each chip. Add in your choice of salsa for that vibrant touch, and you’ve got a dip that is both satisfying and addictive. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night in, this Baked Triple Cheese and Salsa Tortilla Chip Dip deserves a prominent place on your table.

Ingredient Rundown

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dip so irresistible:

10 to 15 corn tortilla chips – Choose round or triangle, depending on your preference!
One 10.75-ounce can Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup – This creamy soup forms the base of our cheesy goodness.
One 1.25-ounce packet fajita seasoning mix – Adds a delightful spice that elevates the flavor profile.
One 8-ounce bag shredded cheese, divided – A mix of Mexican blend, Pepper Jack, or your choice of cheese adds extra creaminess.
8 ounces brick-style cream cheese – Make sure it’s well-softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
8 ounces salsa – Choose your favorite brand for a fresh burst of flavor.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To whip up this scrumptious dip, gather the following tools:

Mixing bowl – For combining all the creamy ingredients.
Spatula – Helps to mix everything smoothly.
Baking dish – A 9-inch pie dish or similar works perfectly for this recipe.
Oven – Preheated to ensure even baking.
Serving platter – To display your dip with a side of tortilla chips.

Stepwise Method: Baked Triple Cheese and Salsa Tortilla Chip Dip

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dip bakes evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the can of Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup. Use a spatula to mix them together until they’re well blended and smooth.

Step 3: Add Fajita Seasoning

Sprinkle in the fajita seasoning mix and stir until fully incorporated. This adds a subtle spice that will elevate the flavor of your dip.

Step 4: Mix in the Shredded Cheese

Fold in half of your shredded cheese blend into the creamy mixture. Save the other half for topping later!

Step 5: Layer with Salsa

Spread a layer of salsa at the bottom of your baking dish. This adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the creaminess above.

Step 6: Pour the Cheese Mixture

Carefully pour the cheesy mixture over the salsa layer, spreading it evenly with your spatula.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of your dip, ensuring an even layer for that gooey finish.

Step 8: Bake

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm with a generous helping of corn tortilla chips for dipping!

Customize for Your Needs

One of the best parts about this Baked Triple Cheese and Salsa Tortilla Chip Dip is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes:

Add vegetables – Feel free to mix in chopped bell peppers, green onions, or even corn for added texture and flavor.
Use different salsas – Experiment with Mango Salsa for a fruity twist or choose a spicier salsa for heat.
Change the cheese – Swap out the cheese blends for your favorites, like gooey mozzarella or sharp white cheddar.
Make it meatier – Add cooked shredded chicken or ground beef to the cheese mixture for a heartier dip.

Insider Tips

For a smoother dip, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
Don’t skip the fajita seasoning; it adds a depth of flavor that ties everything together.
Keep an eye on the dip while baking to prevent over-browning; cover it with foil if necessary.
Let the dip sit for a few minutes after coming out of the oven to avoid burns!

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers (though we doubt it!), here’s how to store and reheat your dip:

Storing: Place any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for about 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring until warmed.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my dip is too thick?

If your dip comes out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a splash of milk or a bit of salsa until you reach your desired consistency. This will help make it creamier and easier to dip into!

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dip in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it until bubbly and golden.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese soup?

You can substitute the cheddar cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce or a different brand if needed. Just ensure it has a similar creamy consistency!

How can I make this dip spicier?

If you’re looking to turn up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicy salsa in the recipe. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce for an extra kick!

Don’t Miss These

If you love this dip, you won’t want to miss out on these other delicious recipes:

Mexican Bean Dip – A hearty, flavorful dip perfect for parties.
Mango Salsa – A refreshing twist that pairs wonderfully with chips.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have the ultimate guide to preparing this Baked Triple Cheese and Salsa Tortilla Chip Dip, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this dip is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness and the delightful crunch of tortilla chips as you dive into this delicious appetizer!