Name: Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (mild or spicy); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup milk or heavy cream (adjust as needed); 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ lb ground beef or sausage (optional); Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso is a creamy, flavorful dip perfect for any casual gathering or game day. Packed with Velveeta cheese, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and a kick of ranch seasoning, it’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd.

A close-up view of a creamy dish in a white bowl with colorful floral patterns; the dish has a thick orange and cream-colored sauce mixed with small chunks of browned meat, visible red tomato pieces, and green chopped herbs sprinkled on top. The background is blurred with green grass and some purple flowers, emphasizing the food. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and the photo is bright, showing the shiny texture of the sauce and fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (mild or spicy)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup milk or heavy cream (adjust as needed)
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ lb ground beef or sausage (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: If using meat, cook the ground beef or sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.
Step 2: In a large saucepan or slow cooker set on low, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir occasionally until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Stir in the Rotel tomatoes with their juices, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Gradually add milk or heavy cream to the cheese mixture, stirring until you reach your preferred dip consistency.
Step 5: If using cooked meat, add it to the queso and heat for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Transfer the queso to a serving bowl or keep it warm in the slow cooker. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, choose spicy Rotel tomatoes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use half-and-half instead of milk or heavy cream for a lighter version.
Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
Leftover queso can be mixed with cooked pasta for a quick creamy dinner.

Storage

Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a thick creamy orange dip served in a clear glass bowl filled to the top, showing a smooth yet chunky texture with small pieces of red tomatoes and green herbs mixed evenly throughout. The dip's orange base is dotted with visible bits of seasoning and herbs, giving it a rich and fresh look. The surface of the dip is glossy, with fresh green parsley leaves scattered on top, adding color contrast. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, highlighting the vibrant colors of the dip. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this queso without meat?

Yes, simply omit the ground beef or sausage for a delicious vegetarian version that still offers plenty of flavor from the cheeses and seasonings.

What can I use if I don’t have Velveeta cheese?

Velveeta gives this dish its signature creamy texture, but you can substitute with processed cheese or a blend of cheddar and American cheese, melting slowly and stirring well to achieve the desired smoothness.