Description
This Velveeta Queso Recipe, also known as Rotel Dip, is a creamy, cheesy dip that combines savory browned sausage, melted Velveeta and pepper jack cheeses, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and black beans. Enhanced with a splash of pale ale beer and fresh cilantro, this dip is perfect for game days, parties, or any casual gathering where you want a comforting and flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Seasoning
- ½ pound pork sausage (hot or regular, casing removed, such as Jimmy Dean)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese and Dairy
- 16 ounces Velveeta, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup freshly shredded pepper jack cheese
Liquids
- ¾ cup Pale Ale beer (or your preferred beer)
Other Ingredients
- 14.5 ounces Rotel tomatoes (1 can, do not drain)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the pork sausage. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Use a wooden spatula to crumble the sausage as it cooks, stirring occasionally until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through.
- Reduce with Beer: Pour in ¾ cup of Pale Ale beer. Allow the beer to simmer and reduce for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step enhances the flavor of the sausage and adds depth to the dip.
- Melt the Cheeses: Stir in the Velveeta cubes and freshly shredded pepper jack cheese. Continue stirring for about 3 to 5 minutes until all the cheese has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Cilantro: Once the cheese has melted, fold in the entire can of Rotel tomatoes (undrained), the drained and rinsed black beans, and the chopped fresh cilantro. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the queso dip hot with homemade chips or your favorite dipping chips. Enjoy the warm, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer right away for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier queso, use hot sausage or add chopped jalapeños.
- If Velveeta is unavailable, processed cheese or a smooth melting cheese blend can be substituted, but the texture may vary.
- Black beans add texture and protein, but you can omit them if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheated on low heat.
- This recipe pairs well with tortilla chips, corn chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
