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This easy Rotel dip with ground beef is a craveable crowd-pleaser you can whip up for game days family gatherings or just when the snack attack hits. Velvety cheese savory beef and zesty tomatoes come together in one bubbling skillet and all you need are a few pantry staples and barely an hour. When my kids bring friends over it is always the first dish to disappear.
This dip saved the day at our last block party when we needed a last-minute appetizer and everyone raved. It is so easy even my teens can make it themselves.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Ground beef: Brings hearty flavor and richness look for 80 or 85 percent lean for the best taste
- Velveeta cheese: Gives the dip its signature creamy melt use the original block for smoothest results
- Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies: Add juicy tangy spice aim for the mild or hot version depending on your heat preference
- Milk or beer (optional): For adjusting the dip’s consistency add just enough to reach desired creaminess
How to Make It
- Brown the Beef:
- In a medium skillet over medium heat crumble and cook the ground beef for about seven minutes stirring often until it loses its pink color. Spoon off any extra fat for a less greasy dip.
- Add Cheese and Rotel:
- Lower the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta right into the pan with beef. Pour in the entire can of Rotel including juices to maximize flavor and moisture.
- Melt and Stir:
- Keep the pan on low and stir regularly as the cheese melts. Scrape the bottom and sides to prevent sticking. Be patient and let it become completely smooth and creamy usually within ten minutes.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the mixture seems too thick for dipping add a splash of milk or beer. Stir it in well and only add more if needed to reach your perfect dippable texture.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Spoon the hot finished dip into a nice serving bowl or keep it warm in a slow cooker set to warm. Serve right away with tortilla chips pretzels or even sliced vegetables for dipping.
I love Rotel dip because that subtle kick from the green chilies makes it special without being too spicy and my favorite way to enjoy leftovers is as a topping for baked potatoes. One birthday my son asked for this dip instead of a cake and his friends thought I was a genius.
Flavor Boosters
To boost flavor try swapping classic Rotel for a fire roasted tomato blend or add extra diced green chilies. Veggie lovers can mix in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef while hot sauce raises the heat level.
Serving Suggestions
This Rotel dip pairs perfectly with salty tortilla chips soft pretzel bites or crisp celery and carrot sticks. It is great layered into nachos stirred into pasta or as a topping for baked potatoes and fries. Leftovers can even fill quesadillas for a speedy lunch the next day.
Creative Twists
For a lighter version try ground turkey instead of beef. Add canned black beans corn or cooked sausage in colder months to make it heartier. In the summer spoon the dip onto burgers or serve with fresh veggies for a seasonal touch.
This dip inspires new cooks and disappears at every party. Take your time melting the cheese for silkiest results and enjoy every creamy bite.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What kind of cheese works best for this dip?
Velveeta cheese is ideal for this dip as it melts smoothly, giving a creamy and rich texture that coats chips perfectly. You can use other processed or melting cheeses if desired, but Velveeta is recommended for the classic result.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey, sausage, or even plant-based crumbles to customize the flavor or dietary needs of your dish.
- → How do I keep the dip warm for a party?
After preparing the dip, transfer it to a slow cooker set to the 'Warm' setting. This keeps the cheese smooth and the dip ready for serving throughout your event.
- → What should I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips, pretzels, sliced baguette, or fresh veggie sticks like celery and bell peppers all pair well with this hearty cheesy dip.
- → Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dip ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, stirring in a little milk or beer if it has thickened.