Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso Recipe
A rich and creamy cheesy queso dip featuring Velveeta cheese, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, and flavorful ranch seasoning. This comforting dip can be made with or without ground beef or sausage and is perfect for serving warm alongside tortilla chips or your favorite dippers at parties or casual gatherings.
- Author: Amaya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Main 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
Optional Meat
- ½ lb ground beef or sausage (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cook the Meat (If Using): In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked meat aside.
- Melt the Cheese: In a large saucepan or slow cooker set to low, add the cubed Velveeta and softened cream cheese. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until both cheeses are completely melted and smooth.
- Mix in Rotel & Seasoning: Stir in the entire can of Rotel tomatoes with their juices, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Combine everything thoroughly for an even flavor distribution.
- Adjust the Consistency: Gradually add milk or heavy cream while stirring until the queso reaches your desired thickness and creamy texture.
- Combine & Heat: If using the cooked meat, stir it into the queso dip. Continue heating for a few more minutes to meld all the flavors together.
- Serve & Enjoy: Transfer the queso into a serving bowl or keep it warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if preferred. Serve hot with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.
Notes
- You can adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or spicy Rotel tomatoes according to your taste preference.
- For a thinner dip, add more milk or cream; for a thicker dip, reduce the amount.
- Ground sausage provides more flavor but can be omitted for a meatless version.
- Use a slow cooker to keep the queso warm during parties and avoid reheating it repeatedly on the stove.
- Fresh herbs as garnish add color and a fresh contrast to the rich dip.
Keywords: Cheesy Queso Dip, Rotel Queso, Ranch Queso Dip, Party Dip, Velveeta Dip, Spicy Cheese Dip