Rotel Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dip made with just a few simple ingredients. This party favorite combines melted Velveeta cheese with Rotel tomatoes and ground beef or sausage for a rich, flavorful dip that’s perfect for chips, crackers, or veggies. Whether you’re hosting a game day, a family gathering, or just craving a comforting snack, this dip is always a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – Made with only three main ingredients and ready in minutes.
- Crowd-pleaser – A favorite at parties, tailgates, and gatherings.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level, add extra ingredients, or make it meat-free.
- One-pot dish – Minimal cleanup and simple preparation.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef or sausage
- Velveeta cheese
- Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
Optional Add-ins:
- Chopped onions
- Jalapeños for extra spice
- Black beans or corn
- Taco seasoning for extra flavor
- Cream cheese for a creamier texture
Directions
- Cook the meat – In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Melt the cheese – Cut Velveeta into cubes and add to the skillet with the cooked meat.
- Add Rotel – Pour in the Rotel tomatoes (do not drain) and stir everything together.
- Melt & mix – Continue stirring over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Serve warm – Transfer to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 8 servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicier Version – Use hot Rotel and add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Creamier Dip – Add a block of cream cheese for extra richness.
- Meat-Free Version – Skip the meat and add black beans or extra veggies.
- Loaded Rotel Dip – Stir in corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers.
- Chili Cheese Dip – Add a can of chili for a heartier version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cheese may become grainy when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use real cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes! Use shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix, but add a splash of milk to help with melting.
Can I make Rotel Dip in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker on low until melted.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, sausage, or even shredded chicken work well.
Is Rotel Dip spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can use mild Rotel for a less spicy version.
What do I serve with Rotel Dip?
Tortilla chips, crackers, pretzels, or sliced veggies like bell peppers and celery.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Make it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.
How do I keep the dip warm at a party?
Use a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep it melty and smooth.
Can I add extra seasonings?
Yes! Taco seasoning, garlic powder, or cumin add great flavor.
How do I thin out thick dip?
Stir in a little milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or slow cooker and adjust cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
Rotel Dip is the ultimate cheesy, meaty, and flavorful party dip that’s quick to make and loved by everyone. Whether you’re serving it for game day, a potluck, or a casual snack night, this creamy dip is guaranteed to disappear fast. Try it today and enjoy every scoop!
PrintRotel Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: ~6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Rotel Dip is a creamy, cheesy dip made with Velveeta cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and ground beef or sausage. It’s warm, melty, and packed with flavor—perfect for serving with tortilla chips, crackers, or even veggies!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or sausage)
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, undrained
- 16 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Melt the Cheese – Reduce heat to low and add cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted.
- Add Rotel & Seasonings – Pour in the Rotel tomatoes (with juice) and stir well. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Serve – Once fully melted and combined, transfer the dip to a serving bowl or a slow cooker set to “warm” to keep it gooey. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.
Notes
- For a creamier dip, stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese or ½ cup of milk while melting the cheese.
- Want it spicier? Use Hot Rotel or add diced jalapeños.
- Slow Cooker Method: Brown the meat first, then combine everything in a slow cooker on low for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.
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