Simple Rotel Dip With Ground Beef

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If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and a little spicy to bring to the party or just snack on at home, this Simple Rotel Dip With Ground Beef checks every box. Creamy Velveeta melts down into a silky base while spicy diced tomatoes with green chilies add just the right amount of kick. And let’s not forget the seasoned ground beef that turns this dip into something seriously satisfying.

It comes together in just minutes with only a few ingredients, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You can keep it warm in a slow cooker for game day or reheat it in the microwave for late-night nachos. However you serve it, it never sticks around long.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Rotel Dip With Ground Beef

This dip is effortless and foolproof. You don’t need to prep or chop anything fancy. It uses pantry staples and comes together in one skillet or pot. The flavor payoff is massive, with a rich, creamy texture and bold Tex-Mex flavor in every bite. It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it with tortilla chips, pour it over fries, spoon it onto tacos, or stir it into pasta.

What Kind of Cheese Works Best In Rotel Dip?

Velveeta is the classic cheese used in Rotel dip, and for good reason. It melts beautifully into a smooth and creamy consistency without any graininess. But if you prefer a more natural cheese, you can use a combo of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a similar result. Just know it may not be as silky. Want to spice things up? Add a bit of pepper jack for extra heat and flavor.

Ingredients for the Simple Rotel Dip With Ground Beef

This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients, each one playing a key role in building that savory, melty flavor we all love.

Ground beef brings hearty, savory flavor and makes the dip more filling.

Velveeta cheese gives the dip that signature ultra-creamy texture that holds everything together.

Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies) add a zesty kick and some juicy texture.

Taco seasoning spices the meat with classic Tex-Mex flavors that pair perfectly with the cheesy base.

Milk (optional) helps thin out the dip slightly if you want a looser consistency.

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How To Make the Simple Rotel Dip With Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain off excess fat.

Step 2: Season the Meat

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir well. Add a splash of water if needed, and let it simmer for 2 minutes to absorb the flavor.

Step 3: Add Rotel and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the Rotel tomatoes (with their juices) and cubed Velveeta. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency

If the dip is too thick for your liking, stir in a little milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve the dip warm with tortilla chips, veggie sticks, or anything dippable. Keep it warm in a slow cooker if serving for a party.

How to Serve and Store This Crowd-Favorite Dip

This dip feeds about 8 to 10 people as an appetizer or snack. Serve it right from the stovetop while it’s hot, or transfer it to a small slow cooker on the warm setting to keep it melty. If you’re storing leftovers, scoop them into an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the texture.

What to Serve With Rotel Dip?

Tortilla Chips

The classic companion. Their crunch is perfect for scooping up that cheesy goodness.

Soft Pretzel Bites

Soft, salty pretzel bites pair perfectly with the creamy heat of the dip.

Bell Pepper Strips

A fresh and crunchy low-carb option that holds up well to thick dip.

French Fries

Pour this dip right over crispy fries for a Tex-Mex twist on loaded fries.

Nachos

Layer chips on a tray, drizzle with warm Rotel dip, and add toppings like jalapeños or olives.

Mini Tacos

Use the dip as a filling or drizzle for handheld taco bites.

Baked Potatoes

Split open a baked potato and spoon this dip right inside.

Crusty Bread

Chunks of crusty bread soak up the cheese sauce like a dream.

Want More Dip Ideas That Bring the Heat?

If you can’t get enough of cheesy or spicy dips, try out these next:

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And let me know in the comments how you made yours! Did you try it with spicy sausage? Add jalapeños? Maybe even turned it into a pasta sauce?

I love seeing how these recipes evolve in your kitchens. Drop your ideas or questions below.

Explore more easy and delicious party dips, cozy meals, and feel-good bites over on Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

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Simple Rotel Dip With Ground Beef


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8–10 servings

Description

This simple Rotel dip with ground beef is the ultimate party appetizer made with creamy Velveeta, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and seasoned beef. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for game day, tailgates, or snacking. Great served with tortilla chips, fries, or veggies, this crowd-pleasing cheese dip is always a hit.


Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

16 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed

10 ounces Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained

1 tablespoon taco seasoning

2 tablespoons milk (optional, to thin)


Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat once fully browned.

2. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let simmer for 2 minutes until the beef is fully seasoned.

3. Add the Rotel tomatoes with their juices and the cubed Velveeta to the skillet.

4. Stir constantly on low heat until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.

5. If desired, add milk a tablespoon at a time to reach your preferred dip consistency.

6. Serve immediately with chips or transfer to a slow cooker set to warm for parties.

Notes

Use spicy or hot Rotel for extra heat.

Substitute Velveeta with cream cheese and sharp cheddar for a natural option.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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