This creamy party-ready boat dip is a fun twist on the TikTok classic. You’ll only need a handful of ingredients and no fancy tools, and you’ll have a cool, creamy, and ultra-flavorful ranch dip that is perfect for any party, or for taking to the pool, lake, or beach!
This is one of my Dip recipes I know youโll want to keep on hand!
This summer, my kids are allllll about going to the neighborhood pool, which I love. Watching them swim and have an absolute blast is so fun.
But there’s something about swimming that will make you undeniably hungry. And when my kids are hungry… whew… you better not be between them and some food lol.
Usually I just make up a cooler full of snacks, but this boat dip (a rotel ranch dip) really hits the spot!
If you’ve been on TikTok at all over the past year or so, you’ve probably seen a version of this dip… it’s super popular!
And once you taste it, you’ll understand why! My version includes cream cheese which makes it extra creamy, and it stands up a little better to dipping.
So let’s make some and have a fantastic summer!
How to make boat dip?
This is just an overview; the full ingredients and directions are in the recipe card toward the bottom of this post.
- Whip cream cheese. I find this is easiest done with a hand mixer, but a whisk will work just as well.
- Combine. Add all the rest of the dip ingredients and stir well.
- Cover and chill. Chill for 2-3 hours, then enjoy!
Helpful Tip!
While this dip can certainly be enjoyed right after making it, I find that this dip tastes best when it’s chilled for at least 2 hours. All the flavors really have a chance to blend together!
Variations of this recipe
- Seasoning – instead of ranch seasoning, or in addition to, try adding a couple tablespoons of taco seasoning.
- Rotel – if you can’t find rotel, you can use an equivalent amount of drained chunky salsa.
- Corn – frozen (and thawed) corn can be used in place of the fire-roasted corn.
- Stir-ins – to make this dip extra hearty, try adding some drained and rinsed black beans, cooked and shredded chicken, or cooked and drained ground sausage or beef.
- Cheese – instead of cheddar cheese, a Colby-Jack or Mexican blend cheese are great alternatives.
FAQ’s
Despite the name, you definitely don’t need a boat to enjoy boat dip. This Mexican-style ranch dip is called that because it’s a perfect dip to take to a day spent on the water… in a boat, by the pool, or to the beach. However, you can make this dip for any occasion!
Absolutely! I like the extra creaminess the cream cheese adds, but you can replace it with an additional 1 cup of sour cream.
Making ranch dip ahead of time
I love this recipe because itโs actuallyย betterย when you make it ahead!
The flavors really get a chance to meld together this way. I like to make this dip at least 2-3 hours before serving.
Storage
Leftover dip should be refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoyed within 4-5 days.
My Favorite Mixing Bowls!
I love these mixing bowls for two main reasons: the non-slip bottoms make mixing easier, and the airtight lids mean you donโt have to transfer the contents to another container to refrigerate!
Did you make this? Be sure to leave a review below and tag me @the_chunky_chef on Facebook and Instagram!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 16 oz sour cream
- 1 oz packet ranch seasoning mix (click for a homemade version)
- 15 oz can fire-roasted corn drained
- 10 oz can rotel drained
- 4 oz can diced green chiles drained
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Whip cream cheese
- Add softened cream cheese to a large mixing bowl and beat with a hand mixer (or a whisk or rubber spatula) until creamy and smooth.
Combine
- To the mixing bowl, add sour cream, ranch seasoning, corn, rotel, green chiles, and cheese. Stir to combine well.
Cover and chill
- Cover mixing bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours.
Serve
- Serve chilled, with tortilla or pita chips as dippers.
Want to save this recipe for later? Click the heart in the bottom right corner to save to your own recipe box!
Chef Tips
- I’ve estimated this dip will serve 8, but the exact serving size is up to you.
Nutrition Disclaimer
The Chunky Chef is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
Bud Kelly says
Everyone loved it and asked for the recipe. I did add 2 tbs of taco seasoning.
Pamela says
It was good. However, I didnโt have any green chilies and the Rotel was mild so it was a little bland. Plus, we ate some as soon as it was made without first chilling it. I will make it again with the green chilies next time. It really needs that little extra kick to it. I was wondering if I can freeze some of it since it makes some much.
The Chunky Chef says
Since dairy can sometimes separate during the freezing and thawing process, I haven’t tested freezing this recipe, so I can’t say for certain how it’ll turn out.
Donna Smith says
Beach Dip
Marion says
I made this and the group of people I made it for loved it. Donโt add any hot pepper unless u like it hot.
Molly says
I have already made this 3 times, and am making it again this weekend. It is SOOOOOOOOOOO good and addicting. I think this time I might add the suggested ground sausage add on this time. Thanks so much!
MaryLouise says
I just discovered your postings. Your recipes look so yummy! Thanks for sharing.
Sandra says
This is SO good! Such an amazing dip!
Erin says
No doubt, this is really amazing! Definitely a must make!
Beth says
This looks so amazing! I love boat dip, and this version looks particularly delicious. I can almost taste it!
Deborah says
I cannot wait to try this. Looks amazing. Thank you for
sharing!
Lucy says
You are an exceptional cook. Your recipes are easy and absolutely delicious ..I have tried a ton of them..This boat dip is a winner as usual….your recipes are easy and you really explain various ideas and how to make each one…you are the best..lucky family