Velveeta Queso Recipe (Rotel Dip)

This Velveeta Queso Recipe is my favorite Super Bowl appetizer. I made my version of easy Rotel dip, but loaded it with Velveeta, beer, pepper jack, black beans, Rotel, and sausage! I make this for our family every game day, party, and beyond.

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What’s in This Velveeta Queso Recipe?

If you’re a cheese dip lover like me, this Rotel Dip recipe with sausage, Velveeta, beans, and more is a must-make!

Olive Oil Spray: Helps the chips brown in the oven.
Taco Seasoning: Adds yummy Mexican flavor to the chips.
Pork Sausage: Adds a delicious umami flavor to this dip.
Salt + Pepper: Enhances the flavor of the sausage.
Beer: I like to use an IPA, but any type of beer will work. It adds a complex flavor and helps the queso stay smooth.
Velveeta: Makes the ultimate smooth and creamy queso.
Pepper Jack Cheese: Adds a buttery and spicy flavor to the queso.
Rotel: Adds that classic tomato and green chile flavor.
Black Beans: Adds an earthy flavor.
Cilantro: Brightens the queso and adds a herbaceous flavor.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

When melting the Velveeta, I always use low heat and stir often so it doesn’t burn. If the queso seems to thick, I add some more liquid to thin. Heavy cream, milk, beer, and Rotel juice are great options.

If I’m making in a slow cooker, I add everything and cook on high for 2-3 hours. You can also keep the dip warm on the “warm” setting for long periods of time. Be sure your ingredients like the sausage are cooked before adding.

Variations on Rotel Dip

Any true dairy lover hasn’t lived until they’ve tried this Rotel Dip Queso. Feel free to add in other favorite ingredients that you might love such as chopped jalapenos, a layer of refried beans, Mexican rice, or whatever your heart desires! This recipe is so fun because it’s fully customizable.

Velveeta Queso recipe with rotel, sausage, beans, and more

Serving Suggestions

I have developed all kinds of fun game day recipes that pair really well with this Velveeta Rotel Dip. I recommend serving with our Skinny Margarita, Chicken Wings, Chicken Tacos, and Tortilla Roll Ups to start!

How to Make Velveeta Queso Step by Step

Cook the Sausage: While the chips are cooking, begin your dip: Start by browning ½ pound of pork sausage in a medium skillet over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a wooden spatula to crumble and turn the sausage as it cooks.

A frying pan with a lot of rotel dip and velveeta cheese dip in it.

Add the Beer: Once the sausage is cooked through, add in ¾ cup of Pale Ale beer and allow to cook down/reduce for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

A frying pan with rotel dip and velveeta cheese dip, along with eggs and sausage.

Melt in the Cheese: Stir in 16 ounces of Velveeta and ½ cup of shredded pepper jack. It should take about 3-5 minutes for all the cheese to melt in.

Stir in the Rotel: Once melted, stir in 14.5 ounces (1 can) of Rotel tomatoes, 1 cup of black beans, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with the homemade chips. Enjoy!

How to Store and Reheat

Leftover queso can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving. I do not recommend freezing this dip.

Taco boat chip dipping into velveeta cheese dip loaded with rotel, sausage, black beans, and more

Can I use a different kind of Rotel?

Yes, you can use different varieties of Rotel in your queso, such as Mild, Original, or Hot, depending on your heat preference. Feel free to experiment and choose the one that suits your taste.

How can I make it spicier?

If you prefer a spicier queso, you can add additional ingredients like diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.

Can I use real cheese instead of Velveeta?

While Velveeta is known for its smooth melting properties, you can substitute it with real cheese. However, keep in mind that the texture and consistency of the queso may differ. Consider using a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, and adjust the recipe accordingly.

Can I make it in a crockpot instead?

Yes! Cook the sausage fully, then add all of the dip ingredients (including the cooked sausage) to the crockpot. Cook on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Can I make it in the microwave?

Yes, you can make Velveeta queso with Rotel in the microwave. Brown the sausage, then place the dip ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until the cheese is fully melted.

Can I freeze it?

It is not recommended to freeze Velveeta queso with Rotel. The texture of the cheese can change upon thawing, resulting in a grainy or separated consistency.