Are you ready for one of the quickest party dips ever? This Rotel Dip takes only 20 minutes from start to finish! Whether it’s game day, movie night, or a last-minute get-together, this dip always delivers.
Made with ground beef, a can of Rotel tomatoes, and Velveeta cheese, this dip is a creamy, cheesy, meaty delight. You can also make Rotel Dip with cream cheese if you prefer! Best part? Just 4 main ingredients and one pot—easy to make, easier to clean!
Rotel Dip Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | Under 20 minutes |
| Main Ingredients | Ground beef, Rotel tomatoes, Velveeta cheese |
| Optional Add-ins | Onion, chili powder, chipotle, cilantro |
| Best Served With | Tortilla chips, crackers, veggies |
| Storage | 3–4 days in fridge (airtight container) |
| Reheating Tip | Microwave or stovetop until smooth and melty |
| Crockpot Friendly | Yes – keep on warm for long events like game day |
What is Rotel Dip Made Of?
- Ground Beef: Use lean beef to reduce grease. You can also use ground sausage or turkey.
- Rotel Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes and green chiles adds flavor and mild spice. Don’t drain!
- Velveeta Cheese: The secret to that ultra-creamy melt. Cream cheese and shredded cheddar can also be used as a Velveeta alternative.
- Chili Powder (optional): Adds a little smoky kick.
How to Make Rotel Dip (Step-by-Step)
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned (about 5-6 minutes). Drain the fat.
- Add cheese and Rotel: Lower the heat. Add Velveeta cheese cubes and the full can of Rotel tomatoes (with juice). Stir until melted and smooth.
- Spice it up: Add chili powder or chipotle powder for extra heat.
- Serve & enjoy: Pour into a bowl or skillet, top with fresh cilantro (optional), and serve warm with tortilla chips.
How to Make Rotel Dip – Step-by-Step Instructions
This easy Rotel dip recipe is made in just one pan and takes less than 20 minutes. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a medium skillet or saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil (optional).
- Add 1 pound of ground beef (or sausage).
- Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned (about 5–6 minutes).
- Drain the excess grease, but keep the meat in the pan.
Step 2: Add Rotel Tomatoes
- Open 1 can (10 oz) of Rotel tomatoes with green chiles.
- Do not drain—the juices help make the dip smooth.
- Pour the entire can into the pan with the cooked meat.
Step 3: Add Velveeta Cheese
- Cut 1 block (16 oz) of Velveeta cheese into cubes.
- Add the cheese cubes to the pan.
- Stir everything together over medium heat, until the cheese is completely melted and creamy (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Add Optional Spices
- If you want a little kick, add:
- ½ teaspoon chili powder, or
- Chipotle or Cajun seasoning (optional)
- Stir well to mix the spices into the melted cheese mixture.
Step 5: Serve the Dip
- Pour the hot Rotel dip into a serving bowl or skillet.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro (optional).
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, buffalo dip or fresh veggies.
Tips for Best Results
- Use lean ground beef (85% or higher) to avoid too much grease.
- Keep dip warm in a slow cooker for long parties or events.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk if needed.
- Want a Velveeta-free version? Use 8 oz cream cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar instead.
Rotel Dip Variations
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, hot sausage, or Cajun seasoning.
- Flavor Boost: Stir in sautéed onions, garlic, or taco seasoning.
- Fresh Twist: Mix in pico de gallo or chopped cilantro right before serving.
- Cream Cheese Version: Swap Velveeta with 8 oz cream cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheat in a microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally until smooth.
- Keep dip warm in a slow cooker for parties—perfect for the Super Bowl or potlucks!
Rotel Dip FAQs
Q1: What is Rotel Dip made of?
A: Rotel Dip is made with ground beef, a can of Rotel tomatoes, and Velveeta cheese, all melted together into a creamy dip.
Q2: What does Rotel consist of?
A: Rotel is a brand of diced tomatoes with green chiles, available in mild, original, or spicy versions.
Q3: What can I use instead of Rotel?
A: You can substitute Rotel with petite diced tomatoes and a few chopped green chiles or use your favorite chunky salsa.
Q4: Can I make Rotel Dip without Velveeta?
A: Yes! Use cream cheese and shredded cheddar instead. The texture is slightly different but still creamy and delicious.
Q5: What is a 4 ingredient dip?
A: This 4-ingredient Rotel Dip includes ground beef, Rotel, Velveeta, and optional chili powder or seasoning.
Q6: Do I need to drain the Rotel?
A: No. The juices help create the perfect smooth, scoopable consistency.
Q7: Can I use other meats?
A: Yes, try ground turkey, chorizo, or spicy sausage for fun variations.