2cans (10 oz each)Rotel diced tomatoes & green chiles (mild or spicy)
8ozcream cheese, softened (full-fat for creaminess; Neufchâtel or low-fat OK)
1cupshredded sharp cheddar cheese (or Colby jack for milder flavor)
1/2cupwhole-milk Greek yogurt (sub: sour cream for tang)
1/4cupfinely chopped green onions (white and light green parts)
1clovegarlic, minced (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)
1/4tspground cumin (optional, for a smoky note)
Fresh cilantrochopped, for garnish
Tortilla chips, pita wedges, or fresh veggies, for serving
Instructions
In a medium nonstick skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat, stir together cream cheese and Rotel (with its juices). If cream cheese is still firm, zap it 15 seconds in the microwave.
As the cream cheese softens, swirl a spatula around until the mixture is smooth and bubbling at the edges—about 4 minutes. Keep the heat gentle to prevent scorching.
Lower the heat, then sprinkle in shredded cheddar and stir constantly until the cheese melts into a silky sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash of milk or extra Rotel juice.
Stir in Greek yogurt, green onions, garlic, and cumin (if using). Cook for another minute so flavors marry. You’ll smell that garlic-onion aroma—pure party fuel!
Give it a spoonful. Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or an extra drizzle of Rotel. For milder dip, stir in an extra dollop of yogurt.
Scoop into a heat-proof bowl, sprinkle with cilantro, and surround with chips or veggies.
Notes
Softening the cream cheese at room temperature is key. Stirring constantly keeps the sauce silky. Leftovers taste even better the next day.