This Rotel Dip Recipe is a rich, creamy appetizer or snack perfect for holidays, parties, and game days! It’s loaded with three types of cheese (yes, REAL cheeses), ground beef, Rotel with chilies, and warm spices that take it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Easy to make in a single skillet, it will have everyone coming back for bite after bite. So, make sure to stock up on chips! 

The Best Rotel Dip Recipe…EVER! 

Throw out those pre-made cheese sauces for good. This cream cheese rotel dip recipe is packed with savory, spicy flavors in a luscious cheese sauce. Combined and cooked in a single skillet, it’s simple to prepare and definitely worth the extra effort. Honestly, it’s so good you can eat it with nothing but a spoon! Trust me, I know, lol.

A staple for game days, this dip is guaranteed to have everyone eager for the game, sports fans or not. After all, everyone wins when they’re scooping tortilla chips, right?

Rotel Dip Ingredients

Ground Beef: Offers meaty flavor and makes the dip heartier and more filling. I used 93/7, but any variety will work. Or, use ground sausage or ground turkey if preferred. If you use a higher fat the the 93/7 ground beef, you may want to drain some of the fat.

Aromatics: Yellow onion and garlic create a sweet, savory flavor base, infusing the meat. 

Olive Oil: Provides a healthy fat for browning the meat and sautéeing the vegetables, adding richness to the base of this dip. You can skip this ingredient if your ground beef is higher in fat.

Whole Milk: Creates a creamier consistency and enhances the overall richness of the dish. Use a little extra to create a cornstarch slurry to achieve the perfect thick consistency. 

Rotel: I like the green chile Rotel cans, but you can use any kind you like best. 

Sour Cream: Adds a tangy taste and contributes to the thick, creamy consistency. 

Cream Cheese: Make sure to use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese, not cream cheese from a tub! 

Shredded Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese creates the ultimate salty, savory, spicy, cheesy taste. 

Seasonings: Cayenne pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper contribute to the overall savory flavor, adding warmth and a touch of heat. 

Cilantro: Adds a bright, refreshing, slightly peppery taste to balance the savoriness. Feel free to omit it if you have the gene that makes cilantro taste like soap! 

Hot Sauce: This is optional, but I love a kick of spice. 

Cornstarch: Combined with a bit of whole milk, this helps thicken the dip, creating the perfect dippable consistency. 

How to Make Rotel Dip with Cream Cheese

Step 1. First, prep the cheeses. Cut the cream cheese into cubes to help it melt faster and more evenly. Then, shred the pepper jack and cheddar cheese, and set aside. 

Step 2. Next, heat a large Dutch skillet over medium heat, and add the olive oil, ground beef, and chopped onions. Brown the meat, breaking it into pieces, until it is no longer pink. 

Step 3. Once the beef is browned and the onions are cooked, drain the meat (if necessary). Then, add the garlic and seasonings. Stir until well incorporated. Then, add the Rotel, stir, and let it cook for about 30 seconds to meld and blend. Once well mixed, reduce the heat to medium-low. 

Step 4. Next, add the milk, cream cheese, shredded cheeses, and sour cream to the skillet. Stir occasionally until the cheeses are completely melted. 

Step 5. To thicken the dip, make a slurry by adding a tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of milk to a bowl. 

Step 6. Whisk until the ingredients are well incorporated. Then, pour a little of the slurry into the skillet at a time to get your desired thickness. (I use the whole slurry mix!) Let the mixture cook for about 3-5 minutes or until thickened. 

Step 7. Next, adjust the seasonings to taste, and add hot sauce and the chopped cilantro. 

Step 8. Serve the dip with your favorite toppings, and dig in while it’s warm! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What should I serve with cream cheese rotel dip? 

I love to serve this dip with tortilla chips for dipping, but it’s also great with crackers, pita bread, celery sticks, or carrots. Or, try spooning it over baked potatoes, tacos, burritos, or quesadillas! 

Can I add toppings? 

Yes, in fact, I recommend it! Add toppings like pico de gallo, sour cream, additional cilantro, and green onions before serving. 

Can I make rotel dip vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply skip the meat and consider adding black beans, corn, or extra veggies for texture and flavor.

How long do leftovers last? 

This recipe is best served fresh. However, you can transfer leftovers to an airtight container, and store them in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk as needed to loosen it back up. 

Can I make this recipe in a crockpot? 

Yes, brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet. Then, transfer the ingredients to a crockpot, stirring to combine, and melt, and set it to warm to serve. 

How do I keep rotel dip warm for a party?

Using a slow cooker is the best way to keep rotel dip warm and creamy throughout your event. Set it to the “warm” setting and stir occasionally.

More Savory Recipes 

• Easy Hamburger Soup
• Roasted Green Beans with Mushrooms and Crispy Onions
• Homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits
• How to Make Red Beans and Rice (with Sausage) 
• The Best Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

I hope you love this Rotel Dip Recipe with Cream Cheese! It’s hearty, savory, spicy, and irresistibly cheesy for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. If you do give this recipe a try, I want to know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @‌butterloveandsalt on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews help support Butter, Love & Salt and make it possible for me to continue to create delicious recipes.

Recipe by: Chavez Adams / Butter, Love & Salt | Photography by: Jess Gaertner