Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it comes together in minutes and uses ingredients I often have on hand. The combination of melty cheese, tomatoes with chiles, and seasoned meat creates a bold, satisfying dip that feels hearty enough to serve a crowd. It all cooks in one pot, making cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 lb. ground beef or sausage
1 can Rotel tomatoes
1 pkg. Velveeta cheese, cubed
1/2 tsp. chili powder
Chopped fresh cilantro and tortilla chips, for serving

Directions

1. I heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground meat, stirring frequently, until browned, about 5 minutes. I drain and discard the excess fat.

2. I reduce the heat to medium and add the Rotel tomatoes and cubed Velveeta cheese. I cook, stirring often, until the cheese is fully melted and everything is smooth and combined, about 5 more minutes.

3. I remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chili powder.

4. I serve the dip warm, either straight from the skillet or poured into a serving bowl, and top it with chopped cilantro. I serve tortilla chips on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

• I add taco seasoning or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.

• I stir in diced jalapeño for more heat.

• I mix in black beans or corn for a heartier dip.

• I add pico de gallo or extra cilantro for brightness.

• I serve it over fries, baked potatoes, or nachos for a full meal.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. To reheat, I warm the dip gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too thick, I add a splash of milk to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I brown the meat first, then add all ingredients and heat on low until melted.

Can I make this dip without meat?

Yes, the dip works perfectly without meat—just melt the cheese with the tomatoes.

What can I use if I can’t find Rotel?

I use diced tomatoes and a small can of green chiles.

Can I use a cheese other than Velveeta?

Velveeta melts the smoothest, but processed American cheese can also work.

How do I keep the dip warm for a party?

I transfer it to a slow cooker set to warm.

Can I freeze Ro-Tel dip?

I avoid freezing because the texture can become grainy.

How can I make the dip spicier?

I add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.

Can I thin the dip if it gets too thick?

Yes, I stir in a little milk or more tomatoes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I cook it in a larger skillet or slow cooker.

What else can I serve this with besides tortilla chips?

I love it with vegetables, pretzel bites, crackers, or toasted bread.

Conclusion

I love how this Ro-Tel dip delivers bold, cheesy flavor with almost no effort. It’s quick, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for last-minute appetizers or cozy nights at home.