Melty Rotel Dip with Ground Beef (Print Version)

Creamy, spicy beef and cheese dip perfect for parties and game nights with tortilla chips.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 pound lean ground beef

→ Vegetables & Canned Goods

02 - 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

→ Dairy

04 - 16 ounces processed cheese (such as Velveeta), cubed
05 - 3/4 cup sour cream

→ Seasonings

06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
09 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Serving

10 - Tortilla chips, for serving
11 - Sliced green onions or chopped cilantro (optional garnish)

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef (and onion, if using) until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
02 - Add the Rotel tomatoes with juices, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Add the cubed processed cheese. Stir frequently until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, about 5–7 minutes.
04 - Remove from heat. Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated and creamy.
05 - Transfer to a serving bowl or slow cooker set to warm. Garnish with sliced green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The sour cream creates this velvety finish that keeps the dip from becoming that gloppy, separated cheese disaster we've all encountered at parties
  • It takes literally 20 minutes from start to finish, but tastes like something that simmered all afternoon
02 -
  • If you're making this ahead for a party, don't stir in the sour cream until you're about to serve otherwise it might separate when reheated
  • The dip thickens as it sits, so keep that warm setting on your slow cooker or add a splash of milk if it gets too heavy
03 -
  • Cut your cheese into small cubes before you start cooking it'll melt faster and more evenly, preventing those frustrating chunks that refuse to smooth out
  • If the dip seems too thick, stir in warm milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency

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