Easy Beef Queso Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Beef Queso Dip is a warm, cheesy, and hearty appetizer perfect for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers. With seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice, this dip comes together quickly and is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with tortilla chips, and watch it disappear in minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefVelveeta or cheddar cheese (cubed)Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)cream cheesemilkgarlic powderonion powderchili powdersaltpepperoptional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, green onions

directions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.

Season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Add the Rotel (undrained) and cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and blended.

Reduce heat to low and add the cubed cheese and milk. Stir frequently until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is smooth and creamy.

Transfer the queso dip to a serving bowl or a slow cooker set to warm.

Garnish with optional toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, or green onions.

Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggie sticks.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.

Add black beans or corn for extra texture and heartiness.

Stir in hot sauce or chipotle peppers for a kick of heat.

Make it vegetarian by omitting the beef and using plant-based meat alternatives.

Serve in a bread bowl for a fun party presentation.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin.

Easy Beef Queso Dip

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What kind of cheese works best?

Velveeta melts easily and creates a smooth dip, but you can use shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel?

Yes, but you may want to add green chilies separately for flavor.

Is this dip spicy?

Mild Rotel makes it fairly mild, but you can adjust the heat by choosing spicy Rotel or adding jalapeños.

Can I freeze queso dip?

It’s not recommended, as the texture can become grainy when thawed.

What can I serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips, pita chips, bread cubes, pretzels, or veggie sticks all pair well.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, just brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and heat on low until melted and smooth.

Conclusion

Easy Beef Queso Dip is a quick, delicious solution for any gathering or snack craving. With bold flavors, creamy texture, and endless customizations, it’s sure to be a favorite at your next event. Make it once, and it’ll become a go-to recipe in your appetizer lineup.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Beef Queso Dip

Easy Beef Queso Dip

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Description

A creamy and cheesy beef queso dip that’s perfect for parties, game day, or a quick appetizer. Packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a touch of spice.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 16 oz processed cheese (like Velveeta), cubed
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low and add the cubed processed cheese and milk. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is smooth.
  6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker. Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve with tortilla chips.

Notes

  • Keep the dip warm in a slow cooker on the ‘warm’ setting for parties.
  • For extra spice, add a chopped jalapeño or hot sauce.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *