Nothing says holiday gathering like a bowl of rich, creamy Texas Christmas Dip. This Southern classic is the ultimate party pleaser, bursting with bold flavors from diced tomatoes, green chilies, and plenty of cheesy goodness. It brings a comforting warmth to any table and pairs perfectly with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies.

The festive blend of spicy, creamy, and tangy makes this dip a staple throughout the season. Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, a holiday potluck, or just a cozy night by the fireplace, Texas Christmas Dip is always a welcome addition. With its minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making year after year.
Why You’ll Love This Texas Christmas Dip
This dip isn’t just a quick and easy option—it’s one that gets people talking. The rich combination of cream cheese and sharp cheddar melts into the tomatoes and green chiles for a dip that’s both decadent and just the right amount of spicy. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and totally crowd-approved.
What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?
The best cheese for Texas Christmas Dip is a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. The sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, while the cream cheese gives it that irresistible creamy texture. You can also toss in some Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra kick. Always go for freshly grated cheese over pre-shredded—it melts better and gives a smoother finish.
Ingredients for the Texas Christmas Dip
Every ingredient in this dip brings something special to the bowl. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Cream Cheese – This is the base that gives the dip its creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles – Adds a zesty, slightly spicy flavor that makes this dip truly Texan.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the dip, adding sharpness and depth.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – A seasoning duo that boosts savory richness.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for balance and flavor elevation.
- Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a fresh pop of green and a touch of herbal lift.
How To Make the Texas Christmas Dip
Step 1: Soften and Blend the Base
Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature until soft. In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Chiles
Drain the diced tomatoes with green chiles slightly, then stir them into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined.
Step 3: Mix in the Cheddar
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. You can use a little extra if you love it cheesy!
Step 4: Heat it Up
Transfer the mixture to a microwave-safe bowl or small slow cooker. Heat on medium for 2-3 minutes (microwave) or low for about 1 hour (slow cooker), stirring occasionally, until hot and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Top with extra shredded cheddar and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or veggie sticks.

How to Serve and Store Texas Christmas Dip
This recipe feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for small parties or family evenings. Serve it warm straight from the crockpot or microwave bowl to keep it creamy. If you’re making it ahead, just refrigerate and reheat when ready.
To store, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring to keep that smooth consistency. Avoid freezing—the dairy might separate.
What to Serve With Texas Christmas Dip?
Tortilla Chips
The classic choice. Their crunch stands up to the creamy dip perfectly.
Crackers
Choose buttery, flaky crackers for a rich bite.
Pretzel Bites
A salty contrast that enhances the creamy, cheesy flavor.
Toasted Baguette Slices
Elegant and sturdy, great for guests who want a more refined option.
Fresh Veggies
Cucumber, bell pepper strips, and celery sticks make it lighter and add fresh crunch.
Mini Bread Bowls
Fun for parties and portion-friendly.
Jalapeño Rounds
If you want even more heat, sliced jalapeños are bold and festive.
Chicken Taquitos
A hearty pairing that turns your dip into a full-blown appetizer spread.
Want More Dip Ideas?
If you love this warm and zesty Texas Christmas Dip, you might also enjoy these comforting and bold flavors:
- Spicy Sailor’s Dip for a bold, seafood-inspired bite.
- Jalapeño Popper Dip if you crave that creamy, spicy indulgence.
- Creamy Irresistible Crack Dip for a ranchy, bacon-laced favorite.
- Garlic Ritz Snacks for a crunchy, buttery companion.
- The Ultimate Cowboy Caviar Recipe for a cold, fresh, tangy balance.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can whip it up at your next gathering!
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra spice? Toss in bacon? Or serve it in a bread bowl?
I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Got questions? Ask away!
Explore beautifully curated holiday dips and easy appetizer recipes on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest and discover your next party favorite.
Texas Christmas Dip
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Looking for a creamy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch? This Texas Christmas Dip is everything you need—easy, festive, spicy, and cheesy! Loaded with cream cheese, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and melty cheddar, this dip is perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in. It comes together fast and delivers bold flavor in every scoop. Ideal for anyone looking for quick appetizers, game day snacks, or dip ideas for the holidays, this recipe is a keeper in your easy recipe rotation.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
10 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained slightly
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature until easy to mix.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the slightly drained diced tomatoes with green chiles and stir to combine evenly.
4. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Transfer the dip to a microwave-safe bowl or slow cooker.
6. Heat in microwave on medium for 2–3 minutes or in slow cooker on low for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until hot and bubbly.
7. Top with extra cheddar and fresh parsley if desired.
8. Serve warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or veggie sticks.
Notes
For more heat, use hot diced tomatoes with chiles or add diced jalapeños.
Always shred your own cheese for smoother melting—pre-shredded can make the dip grainy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake / Heated
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
