✅ 1 block (32 oz) Velveeta cheese, cubed
✅ 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
✅ 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (original, mild, or hot) – do not drain
✅ 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
✅ 1 pound ground beef or sausage (or a combo – hot sausage like Owens or Jimmy Dean recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage (or both). Break it into crumbles and cook until fully done. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Step 2: Load the Crock Pot
Cut the Velveeta and cream cheese into cubes. Add them to a crock pot along with the undrained Rotel and the cream of mushroom soup. Stir everything gently to start combining.
Step 3: Melt the Cheeses
Set the crock pot to low heat and let the mixture cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. After the first 30 minutes, add the browned meat and continue cooking.
Step 4: Stir & Serve
Once the cheese is fully melted and all ingredients are combined into a smooth, creamy dip, stir well and serve hot.
Tips for Queso Success
✔ Spice Control – Use hot sausage and hot Rotel for bold heat or mild versions for a more kid-friendly option.
✔ Crock Pot on Warm – Keep on the “warm” setting while serving to maintain perfect texture.
✔ No Crock Pot? – Make it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
✔ Make Ahead – Prep and cook fully, refrigerate, then reheat gently in a slow cooker or on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
🧄 Serve with tortilla chips, pretzels, or veggie sticks
🌮 Drizzle over tacos, burritos, or nachos
🥖 Use as a topping for baked potatoes or fries
🍳 Add to breakfast burritos or egg scrambles
Storage & Reheating
📌 Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
📌 Reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, or slowly on the stovetop or crock pot with a splash of milk to loosen the texture if needed.
📌 Freezing not recommended – texture may change.
FAQs
1️⃣ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or sausage?
Yes! It’ll be lighter in flavor but still delicious.
2️⃣ Can I double this recipe for a large party?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crock pot has enough space.
3️⃣ Can I add beans or corn?
Yes! Black beans or corn make great add-ins for added texture and flavor.
4️⃣ Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?
Velveeta gives the best melt. If using other cheeses, you’ll need to add an emulsifier (like evaporated milk or cornstarch slurry) to avoid graininess.
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