Rotel dip with ground beef
Rotel dip with ground beef is a tasty, cheesy snack that's perfect for sharing. It features creamy melted cheese mixed with spicy Rotel tomatoes and seasoned ground beef, creating a…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
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Rotel dip with ground beef is a tasty, cheesy snack that’s perfect for sharing. It features creamy melted cheese mixed with spicy Rotel tomatoes and seasoned ground beef, creating a delicious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and flavorful. The combination of gooey cheese and a little kick from the tomatoes makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
I love making this dip when friends come over or for game day because it’s so easy to whip up and always disappears fast. Adding the ground beef gives it a bit more substance, turning it into a hearty appetizer or even a casual meal. I usually cook the beef with a few simple seasonings, then stir it right into the warm cheese and tomatoes—it’s like a little bowl of cheesy happiness.
My favorite way to enjoy this dip is with crispy tortilla chips, but it’s also great scooped over warm bread or even stuffed into warm tortillas for a quick snack. Whenever I make it, I find myself going back for just one more bite—it really hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives a nice balance of flavor and fat for richness. If you prefer leaner, try 93% lean and adjust seasoning to keep it tasty.
Rotel Tomatoes: This canned mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies adds the perfect spicy kick. You can swap with any diced tomatoes and add chopped green chilies or jalapeños for heat.
Velveeta Cheese: Velveeta melts smoothly and creates that classic creamy texture. If you’d rather use real cheese, try a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a similar result.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder bring balance to the dip. Fresh garlic or onion can also work if you prefer fresh flavors.
How Do You Get a Smooth, Creamy Cheese Dip Without Clumps?
Melting cheese smoothly can be tricky, but here are a few tips:
- Low and slow: Keep heat on low to prevent cheese from seizing or burning.
- Cube the cheese: Smaller pieces melt faster and more evenly.
- Stir often: Constant stirring helps the cheese melt evenly into the other ingredients.
- Include the liquid: Pour Rotel with its juice in to keep the dip moist and smooth.
Following these steps makes sure your dip is perfectly creamy and easy to scoop every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and melting the cheese all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helpful for breaking up the beef and stirring the dip smoothly.
- Cheese knife – to cube the Velveeta easily for quick melting.
- Serving bowl or cast iron skillet – keeps the dip warm and ready for dipping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still absorbs the flavors well.
- Add cooked chorizo or diced sausage for extra spice and smoky taste.
- Stir in black beans or corn to boost texture and add a bit of sweetness.
- Top with jalapeños or chopped green onions to brighten the dip and add some fresh bite.
Rotel Dip with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for extra kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium tomato, diced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Time Needed to Make:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active cooking time. It’s quick and easy, perfect for when you want a warm, cheesy dip ready fast. No extra resting or chilling time required—just cook, melt, and serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any extra grease from the pan.
2. Season the Beef
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper over the cooked beef. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
3. Melt the Cheese and Mix in Rotel
Turn the heat to low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese right into the skillet with the seasoned beef. Then pour in the entire can of Rotel (including juice).
Stir continuously until the cheese fully melts and blends smoothly with the beef and tomatoes, creating a creamy, cheesy dip.
4. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the dip to a serving dish or keep it warm in the skillet. Top with fresh diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro for color and fresh flavor.
Serve warm with crispy tortilla chips for dipping and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Dip?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Avoid cooking from frozen to ensure even browning and proper seasoning.
Can I Make Rotel Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip fully, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy.
What Can I Substitute for Velveeta Cheese?
If you don’t have Velveeta, try a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese or Monterey Jack for good meltability. Just keep in mind the texture will be a bit different but still delicious.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, stirring to heat evenly. Add a little milk or cream if the dip thickens too much.