Homemade Rotel Dip
Rotel Dip has been around for ages, but it’s for a good reason – it’s irresistible! This version doesn’t use processed cheese, but it’s just as creamy and dreamy as the original. Member’s Mark™ Taco Seasoning adds the perfect amount of kick – if you’re looking for even more spice, try adding additional Member’s Mark™ Cayenne Pepper!
Variations on Homemade Rotel Dip
Rotel dip is a classic for a reason—warm, melty, and endlessly customizable. Here are easy, crowd-pleasing variations, grouped by vibe so you can mix and match:
Classic Upgrades
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Extra-Cheesy: Add shredded Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby Jack for a thicker, gooier dip.
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Creamy Rotel: Stir in 4–8 oz cream cheese for a smoother, richer texture.
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Spicy Rotel: Use Hot Rotel + a dash of cayenne or a spoon of pickled jalapeños.
Tex-Mex Twists
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Taco Rotel: Add taco seasoning + cooked ground beef or turkey.
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Chorizo Rotel: Swap ground beef for Mexican chorizo—big flavor, little effort.
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Queso Blanco Rotel: Use white American or queso blanco instead of Velveeta.
Protein-Packed Versions
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Chicken Rotel: Add shredded rotisserie chicken + a splash of chicken broth.
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Buffalo Chicken Rotel: Chicken + buffalo sauce + a little ranch or blue cheese.
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Smoked Sausage Rotel: Kielbasa or andouille for a smoky bite.
Flavor Boosters
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Green Chile Rotel: Add a can of fire-roasted green chiles or Hatch chiles.
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Chipotle Rotel: Stir in chipotle in adobo (start small—it’s smoky and spicy).
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Garlic Lime Rotel: Fresh garlic + squeeze of lime to brighten everything.
Fresh & Loaded
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Guacamole Rotel: Fold in diced avocado and cilantro right before serving.
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Street Corn Rotel: Add roasted corn, cotija, cilantro, and a touch of mayo or crema.
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Salsa Verde Rotel: Replace half the Rotel with salsa verde for tangy heat.
Meatless Options
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Black Bean Rotel: Add drained black beans for body and protein.
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Spinach Rotel: Stir in sautéed spinach or kale.
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Roasted Veggie Rotel: Bell peppers, onions, or poblanos for extra depth.
Pro tip: If you’re serving this at a party or tailgate, keep it warm in a slow cooker and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Homemade Rotel Dip
Ingredients
- 1 lb Lean ground beef
- 3 tbsp All purpose flour
- ½ tsp Member's Mark™ Taco Seasoning
- 1½ cups Half and half
- 1 (284 mL) can Rotel tomatoes
- 3 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- Member's Mark™ Sea Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned.
- Add flour and Member's Mark™ Taco Seasoning; stir until no white remains.
- Add half and half and tomatoes. Stir over medium heat until thickened.
- Stir in cheese until melted. Taste and add Member's Mark™ Sea Salt or adjust seasonings as desired.