Rotel dip with ground beef is the perfect warm and cheesy snack that everyone loves. This dip mixes ground beef with creamy cheese and zesty Rotel tomatoes, giving it a little kick and lots of flavor. It’s great for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in when you want something easy and delicious.
I like to make this dip because it’s super simple but always feels like a treat. Cooking up the ground beef and stirring in the melted cheese and tomatoes makes the whole kitchen smell amazing. Plus, it’s one of those recipes where I don’t have to worry about complicated steps – just brown the beef, add the cheese and Rotel, and you’re done!
My favorite way to eat this is with crunchy tortilla chips, but it’s also great spooned over rice or even inside warm tortillas for a quick taco-style snack. Whenever I bring this dip to a party, it disappears so fast I usually have to make a double batch. It’s the kind of dish that gets everyone chatting, dipping, and smiling around the bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef
- This gives the dip its hearty, meaty flavor. I like using 80/20 for a good balance of taste and juiciness. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken—they work well too.
- Rotel Tomatoes
- These canned tomatoes with green chilies add a nice mild heat and tang. If you want it less spicy, drain some of the liquid or use plain diced tomatoes with a pinch of chili powder.
- Velveeta Cheese
- Velveeta melts smoothly, making the dip creamy. If you prefer natural cheese, use processed American cheese or a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for similar texture.
- Garlic and Onion Powder
- These boost the flavor without needing fresh aromatics. Fresh garlic or onion can be used but cook them with the beef first.
How Do You Get the Dip Smooth and Creamy Without Clumps?
Melting the cheese slowly at low heat is key. High heat can make the cheese separate or get grainy.
- Once the beef and Rotel are combined, turn the heat down to low.
- Add cheese cubes little by little, stirring each time to let them melt fully before adding more.
- Keep stirring gently but steadily to create a smooth mixture.
- If the dip feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Being patient here really pays off—you get a creamy, velvety dip that’s perfect for scooping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef evenly and melting the cheese right in the same pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for breaking up the beef and stirring the dip without scratching your pan.
- Kitchen knife – handy for chopping fresh tomatoes and cilantro for garnish.
- Cutting board – keeps your prep organized and safe.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten up the dip while keeping it tasty.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and a nice hint of sweetness.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a spicier kick.
- Top with shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese instead of Velveeta for a sharper cheese flavor.
How to Make Rotel Dip with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 (16 oz) package Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Diced fresh tomatoes (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes total. You’ll spend 10 minutes cooking the ground beef and melting the cheese, plus a few minutes for prep and garnishing. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a snack or party appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Place a large skillet on medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. When done, drain any extra fat to keep the dip from getting greasy.
2. Add Rotel Tomatoes:
Pour the entire can of Rotel (including the juices) into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir it well to combine the flavors.
3. Melt the Cheese:
Turn the heat down to low. Add the Velveeta cheese cubes gradually, stirring often until the cheese melts completely and mixes smoothly with the beef and tomatoes.
4. Season the Dip:
Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to your taste. Stir well so every bite is full of flavor.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the dip into a serving bowl if you want. Then sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes on top. Serve it warm with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Dip?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent excess moisture in the dip.
Is There a Substitute for Velveeta Cheese?
Absolutely! You can use processed American cheese or a blend of cheddar and cream cheese. Just keep in mind that Velveeta melts extra smoothly, so alternatives might be a bit less creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the dip gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dip completely, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat it and stir well. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help refresh the creamy texture.