Un-Mexican Haystack
A creamy, savory layered dip featuring ham, cream cheese, and vegetables, perfect for parties and gatherings. Its rich flavors and crunchy toppings make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine thoroughly the first 8 ingredients: cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Tabasco, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the shredded ham to the mixture.
- Place a tortilla on a plate and spread with the mixture.
- Repeat layers, ending with the mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and parsley.
- Cover and refrigerate the dish.
- Cut into wedges or cubes and insert decorative toothpicks for serving.
- May be prepared one day ahead if wrapped tightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth before adding the other ingredients. You can substitute the ham with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter version. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, try using a plant-based cream cheese and add in some diced tofu or chickpeas for protein. This dish can also be made with flavored tortillas for an extra twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Un-Mexican Haystacks make a great appetizer or party dish. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or with sides like Bayou Baked Beans for a heartier meal. They pair beautifully with Stuffed Celery Sticks for a crunchy contrast. Add some fresh salsa or guacamole on the side for dipping to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until heated through. Avoid reheating the entire dish multiple times to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Un-Mexican Haystack contains roughly 1324 calories, with 53g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (385% of the Daily Value), iron (172% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (156% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2662mg per serving (116% 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 dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Un-Mexican Haystacks a day in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even more delicious when served the next day. Just remember to slice them into wedges or cubes just before serving.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will change the flavor slightly but will still yield a creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, you can increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños into the mixture. Additionally, consider serving with spicy salsa or adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust to your spice tolerance for the best experience.
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).