Rotel Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy, spicy, and savory flavors into one irresistible dish. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this cheesy dip is perfect for game days, potlucks, or any time I need a quick and delicious snack. Whether I serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or even veggies, it’s always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and quick it is to whip up Rotel Dip. It only takes about 15 minutes from start to finish, and I only need three main ingredients to make it: Velveeta cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and ground beef or sausage. It’s hearty, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy. I also appreciate how versatile it is — I can switch up the meat, spice level, or even make it vegetarian. It’s a comforting classic that never disappoints.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Velveeta cheese, cubed
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Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
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Ground beef
Directions
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I start by browning the ground beef or sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. I make sure to break it up as it cooks and then drain any excess grease.
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While the meat is still hot, I add in the cubed Velveeta cheese and the entire can of Rotel tomatoes (juice included).
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I stir everything together over low heat until the cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
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Once it’s all melted and blended, I keep the dip warm in a slow cooker or serve it immediately with my favorite chips.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 servings and takes just 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s ideal for a small gathering, but I can easily double or triple the ingredients for a larger group.
Variations
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Spicy version: I use Rotel Hot or add a few dashes of hot sauce for more heat.
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Milder version: I swap in mild diced tomatoes if I want it less spicy.
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Meatless: I skip the meat altogether and just use cheese and Rotel for a vegetarian version.
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Creamier: Sometimes I stir in a bit of cream cheese for an extra smooth texture.
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Southwest twist: I toss in a handful of black beans or corn to add more flavor and texture.
storage/reheating
To store leftovers, I transfer the dip to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I’m ready to reheat it, I use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until it’s warm and melty again. I can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly. If it gets too thick, I just add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
FAQs
How do I keep Rotel Dip warm during a party?
I like to transfer the finished dip to a slow cooker on the warm setting so it stays melty and delicious for hours.
Can I make this dip in the microwave?
Yes, I just cook the meat first separately, then combine all the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring often until smooth.
What can I serve with Rotel Dip?
Tortilla chips are a classic, but I also enjoy it with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh veggies like bell pepper strips.
Can I freeze Rotel Dip?
I don’t recommend freezing it because the texture of the cheese can get grainy once thawed and reheated.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, I can use a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor and meltiness might vary depending on the brand.
Conclusion
Rotel Dip is one of those go-to recipes I rely on whenever I need a fast, flavorful appetizer that everyone will enjoy. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, I can have a hot, cheesy dip ready in no time. Whether I stick with the classic or try a new variation, it’s always a satisfying choice that keeps people coming back for more.
Print
Rotel Dip
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Rotel Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy appetizer made with Velveeta cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and ground beef or sausage. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing snack perfect for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 lb ground beef
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and the entire can of Rotel tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet.
- Stir over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Serve immediately or transfer to a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep it hot during serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use Rotel Hot or add hot sauce.
- Use mild diced tomatoes for a less spicy dip.
- Omit meat for a vegetarian version.
- Add cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
- Black beans or corn can add a Southwest twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
