This Rotel Dip is creamy, spicy, and ridiculously scoopable. It’s warm melted cheese mixed with tomatoes and green chiles, plus seasoned beef crumbles for a hearty bite. Serve it with chips and you’ve got the ultimate party dip that disappears fast.
Introduction
When you need a dip that takes almost no effort but tastes like you planned ahead, Rotel Dip is the answer. It’s a fan-favorite for game day and potlucks because it’s fast, it stays warm, and everyone loves a cheesy dip.
The standout trick is using low heat and stirring often so the cheese stays silky (not grainy). Trust me, don’t crank the heat—slow and steady makes the best Rotel Dip. Once you make it, you’ll be asked to bring it to every gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Rotel Dip
- Party-perfect: Always the first dip to go at game day.
- Better than store-bought: Creamier, fresher, and extra cheesy.
- Easy weeknight snack: Ready fast with simple ingredients.
- High-protein & satisfying: Beef crumbles make it hearty.
- Keep-warm friendly: Great in a small slow cooker on warm.
Ingredients for Rotel Dip
- Ground beef (1 lb): Adds savory flavor and makes the dip extra filling.
- Swap: Ground turkey or omit for a meat-free dip.
- Onion, finely diced (1/2 cup, optional): Adds extra flavor.
- Swap: 1/2 tsp onion powder.
- Velveeta-style cheese, cubed (16 oz): Melts smooth and creamy.
- Tip: Cubes melt faster and more evenly.
- Diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained (1 can, 10 oz): Adds that classic Rotel flavor and a little heat.
- Tip: Use mild if you want less spice.
- Chili powder (1/2 tsp): Adds depth.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Cozy savory flavor.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Gentle warmth.
- Optional: Milk (2–4 tbsp): For thinning if needed.
- For serving: Tortilla chips, pretzels, or veggie sticks.
How to Make Rotel Dip
- 1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for 7–8 minutes, breaking it up into small crumbles. Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat.
- 2. Melt cubed cheese in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often, until smooth and creamy (about 6–8 minutes).
- 3. Stir in diced tomatoes and green chiles (with juices), cooked beef, chili powder, garlic powder, and pepper.
- 4. Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until everything is hot and creamy. If it looks too thick, whisk in 1–2 tbsp milk at a time until silky.
- 5. Serve warm with chips. For parties, keep it on very low heat and stir occasionally.
Tips for Perfect Rotel Dip
- Keep heat low: High heat can make cheese grainy.
- Stir often: Helps the cheese melt smoothly.
- Don’t drain the tomatoes: The juice helps the dip stay scoopable.
- Adjust thickness: Add a splash of milk if it thickens.
- Season at the end: Different brands vary in saltiness.
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy version: Add 1/2 tsp hot sauce or diced jalapeño.
- Extra meaty: Add cooked breakfast sausage crumbles.
- Bean boost: Stir in 1/2 cup drained black beans.
- Creamier dip: Add 2 oz cream cheese with the cheese cubes.
- “Lazy” slow cooker: Add everything to a slow cooker on LOW for 1–2 hours, stirring now and then.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Rotel Dip in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, stirring often. Add a splash of milk to loosen if needed.
Freeze is not ideal (cheese can change texture), but it will still be tasty. If you do freeze, thaw overnight and reheat slowly with extra milk.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Tortilla chips, pretzels, or toasted bread slices.
- Spoon over nachos, baked potatoes, or tacos.
- Pair with a veggie tray to balance the richness.
- Perfect for game day spreads with sliders and wings.
Reader Review: “This rotel dip was gone in minutes. It stayed creamy the whole time and everyone asked for the recipe!”
If you make this Rotel Dip, leave a rating and comment! Do you like it mild, medium, or extra spicy?
Print
Rotel Dip (Best Ever, Easy, Extra Cheesy)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 5 cups 1x
Description
Rotel dip is creamy, cheesy, and ridiculously easy—classic party dip made with melted cheese and tomatoes with green chiles.
Ingredients
1 pound Velveeta, cubed
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel), undrained
1/2 pound ground beef or sausage (optional)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Instructions
If using meat, brown in a skillet and drain fat.
In a saucepan over low, melt Velveeta with Rotel, stirring until smooth.
Stir in cooked meat (if using) and chili powder (optional).
Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Notes
Slow cooker: Combine and cook on LOW 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Thinner: Stir in a splash of milk.
Tools: Saucepan or slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American