Make your next party a hit with our easy and delicious Rotel Dip recipe! With just two ingredients, this cheesy and spicy dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Rotel Dip made with velveeta cheese in a black bowl topped with tomatoes


 

Are you looking for a delicious appetizer that’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd? Look no further than Rotel dip! This classic dip is made with just two simple ingredients: Velveeta cheese and a can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. It’s creamy, cheesy, queso dip that has just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting.

This Rotel dip recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that can be customized to suit any taste or occasion. With this simple base recipe and our suggestions for add-ins, you can take your dip game to the next level and impress your guests with a tasty snack!

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ingredients for Rotel Dip

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Velveeta cheese – I know Velveeta cheese can be controversial but this cheese product gives this dip the perfect melted queso dip consistency.
  • Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies – This comes in lots of different flavors and heat levels. We usually go with the original but you can spice it up with the habanero version or go with lime and cilantro for a little added flavor.
Rotel Dip ingredients in a glass bowl

How to Make Rotel Dip

Step 1 – Prepare cheese. Cut the Velveeta cheese into 1 inch cubes.

Step 2 – Put it all together. Place the cubed cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and pour the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes over it.

Step 3 – Cook. Microwave the cheese and Rotel mixture on high for 5 minutes, then stop and stir the dip.

Continue to microwave the dip for 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between, until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 4 – Serve. Serve the Rotel dip immediately with chips.

Tips and Tricks

  • If you don’t have a microwave, you can also make Rotel Dip on the stovetop. Simply melt the cheese and Rotel in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is heated through.
  • For a thicker dip, use less Rotel. For a thinner dip, use more Rotel.
  • Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking by using mild, medium, or hot Rotel.

This is quick and easy game day food that is perfect for Super Bowl parties, game nights with friends, and holiday parties. We always have to double the recipe because it goes so fast!

Looking for More Easy Cheese Dip Recipes?

dipping a tortilla chip into Rotel Dip

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Meat Lover’s Rotel Dip

If you’re a fan of meat, why not add some to your Rotel Dip? Cooked ground beef or ground sausage are both great options. You can also add a little Mexican flair with ground chorizo sausage. Simply brown the meat in a skillet, drain any excess grease, and add it to the cheese and Rotel mixture before microwaving to make a Rotel sausage dip.

Veggie Rotel Dip

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, there are plenty of ways to add some veggies to your Rotel Dip. Try adding chopped bell peppers, onions, or jalapenos to the cheese and Rotel mixture before microwaving. You can also add some black beans or corn for some extra texture and flavor.

Spicy Rotel Dip

If you like things spicy, why not kick up the heat on your Rotel Dip? Use a hotter variety of Rotel tomatoes and chilies or add some chopped fresh or pickled jalapenos. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some extra heat.

Cheesy Rotel Dip

If you’re a cheese lover, why not add some extra cheese to your Rotel Dip? Try adding some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese to the mixture before microwaving. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top of the dip before serving for a gooey and delicious treat.

Rotel Dip with Cream Cheese

For a creamier and tangier version of Rotel Dip, try adding some cream cheese to the mixture before microwaving. Simply soften some cream cheese and mix it with the Velveeta and Rotel before microwaving. The result is a rich and creamy dip that is sure to be a hit.

Rotel Dip with Refried Beans

For a heartier version of Rotel Dip, try adding some refried beans to the mixture before microwaving. The beans add some extra texture and flavor to the dip, and make it more filling. You can also top the dip with some fresh avocado or sour cream for a delicious and satisfying snack.

If you are looking for a bean dip that can be served cold make sure to try our Mexican 7 Layer Dip.

bowl of Rotel Dip and tortilla chips

The History of Rotel Dip

Rotel Dip is a classic American appetizer that has been around for decades. It was first introduced in the 1940s by a company called Ro-Tel, which specialized in canned tomatoes and green chilies. The recipe was simple: just melt Velveeta cheese and add in a can of Ro-Tel diced tomatoes and green chilies. The result was a cheesy, spicy dip that quickly became a crowd favorite.

Over the years, the recipe has evolved and adapted to different tastes and preferences. Today, you can find countless variations on the classic Rotel Dip recipe, from meat-filled versions to ones that are packed with veggies. But no matter how you make it, one thing remains the same: Rotel Dip is always a hit at parties and gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dip ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Simply prepare the dip as directed in the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve it, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until it’s hot and bubbly.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned in this recipe. However, keep in mind that canned tomatoes and chilies have a unique flavor that adds to the overall taste of the dip. If you use fresh tomatoes, you may need to add some additional seasoning to the dip to enhance its flavor.

Can I add meat to this dip?

Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or any other type of meat to this dip if you prefer. Simply brown the meat in a skillet, drain any excess grease, and add it to the cheese and Rotel mixture before microwaving. The meat will add some extra flavor and protein to the dip.

Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dip in a crockpot if you prefer. Simply combine the Velveeta cheese and Rotel tomatoes and chilies in a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the dip is hot and bubbly. You can also add any additional ingredients, such as meat or vegetables, to the slow cooker if you like.

holding a chip dipped in Rotel Dip

How to Serve Rotel Dip

Rotel Dip is a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that is perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering with friends and family. Here are some serving suggestions for your Rotel Dip:

  1. Serve with Tortilla Chips and/or Crackers: Tortilla chips are the classic pairing for Rotel Dip. The salty and crunchy chips are the perfect vehicle for scooping up the warm and cheesy dip. If you want to add some other options we suggest crackers. Crips, buttery Ritz crackers would be my first choice!
  2. Top with Jalapenos: For an extra kick of heat, top your Rotel Dip with sliced jalapenos. The coolness of the cheese helps balance out the spiciness of the peppers.
  3. Add Some Color: To make your Rotel Dip more visually appealing, consider adding some colorful toppings such as diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, or sliced green onions.
  4. Serve in a Bread Bowl: For a fun and unique presentation, serve your Rotel Dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This not only looks impressive but also allows guests to tear off pieces of bread and dip them into the cheesy goodness.
  5. Make it a Meal: Rotel Dip can be more than just an appetizer. Use it as a topping for nachos, tacos, or baked potatoes. You can also add some cooked meat or vegetables to the dip to make it more substantial.
  6. Pair with Beverages: Rotel Dip pairs well with a variety of beverages, such as beer, margaritas, or soda. Consider setting up a beverage station with a variety of options for guests to choose from.

How to Store and Reheat

To store leftover Rotel Dip, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply microwave it in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted again. If the dip is too thick after refrigerating, you can add a splash of milk or cream to help thin it out before reheating.

Avoid freezing Rotel Dip, as the cheese may separate and become grainy when thawed.

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Servings: 13
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Rotel Dip

Make your next party a hit with our easy and delicious Rotel Dip recipe! With just two ingredients, this cheesy and spicy dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Rotel Dip made with velveeta cheese in a black bowl topped with tomatoes
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Ingredients

  • 1 pound Velveeta Cheese
  • 10 ounces Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (1 can), undrained

Instructions

  • Cut the Velveeta cheese into 1 inch cubes.
  • Place the cubed cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and pour the undrained Rotel over it.
  • Microwave the cheese and Rotel mixture on high for 5 minutes, then stop and stir the dip.
  • Continue to microwave the dip for 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between, until the cheese is fully melted.
  • Serve the Rotel dip immediately with chips.

Nutrition

Serving: 2ounces, Calories: 81kcal, Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0.005g, Cholesterol: 15mg, Sodium: 556mg, Potassium: 161mg, Fiber: 0.2g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 368IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 207mg, Iron: 0.3mg
Nutrition Disclaimer: We are not certified nutritionists. Nutrition facts are an estimate and are provided as a courtesy. They are generated by an online API which recognizes ingredient names and amounts and makes calculations based on the serving size. Results may vary.
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Handwritten signature for Kat & Melinda