Festive, creamy, and utterly irresistible, Texas Christmas Dip is the ultimate party pleaser. With its blend of zesty tomatoes, melty cheese, and tangy creaminess, this dip is a holiday tradition wrapped in southern flair. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just snacking by the fire, it brings bold flavor and comfort in every bite.

What makes this dip a crowd-favorite is its simplicity. You only need a few pantry staples and minutes to whip it together, but the result tastes like something you’d get at your favorite Southern potluck. It’s perfect for scooping with crackers or spreading over toasted baguette slices for a heartier bite.
What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?
For the creamiest, most luxurious texture, full-fat cream cheese is the way to go. It melts smoothly and pairs beautifully with the boldness of Rotel tomatoes and shredded cheddar. If you’re in a pinch, reduced-fat can work, but you may lose a bit of richness.
Ingredients for the Texas Christmas Dip
- Cream Cheese: The creamy base of the dip, delivering that signature smooth texture.
- Rotel Tomatoes (with Green Chiles): Adds a tangy, spicy kick and festive red-green color.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Brings sharp, melty richness and stretches beautifully.
- Mayonnaise: Provides a silky texture and subtle tang to balance the heat.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth and warmth to each bite.
- Black Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of bite.
How To Make the Texas Christmas Dip
Step 1: Soften and Mix
Let your cream cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Fold in the Rotel tomatoes (drained), garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine evenly.
Step 3: Cheesy Finish
Add in most of the shredded cheddar cheese, saving a handful for topping. Stir until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Heat It Up
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden around the edges.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley or green onions for a festive look. Serve warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced veggies.

How to Serve and Store This Dip
Texas Christmas Dip is best served warm straight out of the oven. Keep it in the baking dish so it retains its heat longer. If you’re prepping ahead, assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just bake as directed.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What to Serve With Texas Christmas Dip?
Buttery Crackers
Classic pairing with the creamy texture of the dip.
Toasted Baguette Slices
Adds a hearty crunch to each bite.
Celery and Carrot Sticks
Perfect for those wanting a low-carb option.
Tortilla Chips
Adds a salty, crispy touch that balances the richness.
Pita Chips
Great for scooping and holding lots of dip.
Pretzel Thins
Brings a malty crunch and extra saltiness.
Mini Bell Pepper Halves
A colorful, crisp, and sweet option.
Want More Dip Ideas?
If you’re into crowd-pleasing dips, don’t miss these must-tries:
- Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso for the ultimate Tex-Mex blend.
- The Ultimate Rotel Chicken Salad Dip if you’re into creamy-meets-savory bites.
- The Ultimate Spicy Ranch Taco Dip for game-day gatherings.
- Green Olive Dip if you’re craving something briny and unique.
- Cream Cheese Olive Spread when you need a no-bake, rich option.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist with bacon bits or jalapeños? Maybe swapped in pepper jack cheese? I’d love to hear your variations.
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Texas Christmas Dip
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Make your holiday table unforgettable with this rich, creamy Texas Christmas Dip — the ultimate warm appetizer that brings festive flavor to any gathering. It combines cream cheese, spicy Rotel tomatoes, cheddar, and mayo into a luscious baked dip that’s ready in minutes. Whether you’re planning a cozy evening or a full-blown Christmas party, this dip delivers crowd-pleasing comfort food vibes. It’s perfect for easy appetizers, holiday snacks, quick party dips, and Christmas food ideas that feel homemade yet effortless.
Ingredients
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chiles, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Let the cream cheese soften to room temperature.
2. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Fold in the drained Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, and black pepper.
4. Stir in most of the shredded cheddar, reserving some for topping.
5. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
8. Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve warm.
Notes
For extra spice, use hot Rotel or add diced jalapeños.
This dip can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 batch
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: texas dip, holiday appetizer, rotel dip, party dip, cream cheese dip
