Introduction

Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso is a creamy, flavorful dip that combines melted cheese with spicy Rotel tomatoes and zesty ranch seasoning. Perfect for game day, parties, or casual snacking, this queso can be served plain or loaded with savory ground beef or sausage.

A close-up view of a clear glass bowl filled with a thick, creamy orange sauce mixed with finely chopped red bell peppers and green herbs. The sauce has small chunks of meat or vegetables evenly spread throughout, giving the texture a rich and hearty look. On top, finely chopped fresh green parsley is scattered, providing a fresh, vibrant contrast to the warm orange color of the sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, the creamy sauce filling it to the brim and slightly textured with visible specks of spices and 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 aside.
Step 2: In a large saucepan or slow cooker, add the cubed Velveeta and softened cream cheese. Heat on low, stirring occasionally until completely melted and smooth.
Step 3: Stir in the Rotel tomatoes with their juices, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, stirring until the queso reaches your desired consistency. Adjust the liquid amount as needed to make it creamier or thicker.
Step 5: If using cooked meat, fold it into the queso and continue heating for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Transfer the queso to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker set to “warm.” Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.

Tips & Variations

For extra spice, try using hot Rotel tomatoes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter meat option or make it vegetarian by skipping the meat altogether.
If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the queso briefly with an immersion blender before serving.

Storage

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

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy dish served in a white bowl with bright colorful floral patterns and a red rim, filled to the top with a thick sauce containing small, cooked meat pieces and chunks of red tomatoes. The surface is orange-tinged with visible oil spots, sprinkled with small green herb leaves scattered evenly on top. The background shows a blurred view of green fields and purple flowers, creating a calm outdoor feeling. 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, the queso is delicious and fully flavorful without meat. Simply omit the ground beef or sausage and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

What can I serve with Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso?

This queso pairs well with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, soft pretzels, or even warm bread for dipping. It also works great as a sauce over baked potatoes or tacos.

Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 110 reviews

A creamy and flavorful Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso made with Velveeta, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning. This easy dip can be customized with ground beef or sausage for added heartiness, perfect for parties or game day.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Category: Dip
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

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 Ingredients

½ lb ground beef or sausage
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Meat (If Using): In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
Melt the Cheese: In a large saucepan or slow cooker, add the cubed Velveeta and cream cheese. Heat on low, stirring occasionally, until fully melted and smooth.
Mix in Rotel & Seasoning: Stir in the Rotel tomatoes with their juices, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Adjust the Consistency: Slowly add milk or heavy cream until the queso reaches your preferred thickness. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine & Heat: If using cooked meat, add it to the queso mixture. Continue heating for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, to blend the flavors well.
Serve & Enjoy: Pour the queso into a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.

Notes

You can adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or spicy Rotel tomatoes.
For a thinner consistency, add more milk or cream gradually.
To keep the queso warm during a party, use a slow cooker on the warm setting.
Garnishing with fresh herbs adds a fresh touch and color contrast.
Ground beef or sausage is optional but adds a hearty, savory element to the dip.

Keywords: Cheesy queso dip, Rotel queso, ranch seasoning queso, party dip, game day recipe, creamy cheese dip