Mexicali Party Dip
A creamy, spicy Mexican-inspired dip featuring tomatoes, green chilies, and cheese, perfect for parties and served with chips for a flavorful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, combine drained and chopped tomatoes, chopped green chilies, shredded process cheese spread, and a dash of Tabasco sauce.
- Microwave on Medium for 7 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the mixture is heated through.
- Serve hot with chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider replacing process cheese spread with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar. If you want to reduce calories, opt for a reduced-fat cheese spread. To add more heat, try using diced jalapeños in addition to the green chilies. Fresh cilantro can also enhance the flavor profile, making it a great addition for those who enjoy Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexicali Party Dip hot with tortilla chips for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Ri'S Nacho Supreme for a festive spread. You can also offer a side of guacamole or salsa for variety. For a complete party platter, consider including fresh veggies like carrots and bell peppers for dipping alongside the chips.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Mexicali Party Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring every minute until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicali Party Dip contains roughly 298 calories, with 12g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1338mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Simply combine all ingredients and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until melted and hot. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or game day.
What can I use instead of process cheese spread?
If you prefer not to use process cheese, you can substitute with a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. This will give you a similar creamy texture while allowing for more flavor customization. Just make sure to melt it thoroughly for the best consistency.
Is this dip vegetarian-friendly?
While the original recipe uses process cheese, which is often vegetarian, it’s important to check the label as some brands may include animal rennet. For a guaranteed vegetarian option, use a vegetarian cheese substitute or a combination of cream cheese and your favorite shredded vegetarian cheese.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).