Ultimate Spicy Cheese Dip
This Ultimate Spicy Cheese Dip, inspired by a classic recipe from the back of a can of Rotel Tomatoes, has been a staple at my gatherings. After numerous tweaks to suit the flavor preferences of my friends, I can proudly say this dip is a crowd-pleaser! The combination of creamy Velveeta cheese, zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a kick of jalapeños creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Whether you're using a stovetop or a crock pot, this dip stays wonderfully gooey and perfect for dipping, making it an ideal choice for game days, parties, or casual snacking. Pair it with crispy tortilla chips for the ultimate treat!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Velveeta cheese
2 lbs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
Diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 (10 ounce) can (I prefer Rotel Original for a zesty flavor)
Canned jalapeño slices
1 (11 1/2 ounce) jar (I like the mild variety for balanced heat)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the Velveeta cheese into approximately 1-inch cubes for easier melting.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine the cubed cheese, the entire can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (including juices), and the jar of jalapeño slices, reserving some of the jalapeño juice for later.
3
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure the cheese melts evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
4
As the mixture starts to melt together, gradually add the reserved jalapeño juice, adjusting to your desired heat level and creamy consistency. Typically, adding about 1/2 to 3/4 of the juice works best for a nice balance.
5
Once fully melted and combined, transfer the dip to a serving bowl or keep it warm in a crock pot if serving for a large gathering.
6
Serve the dip hot with a generous side of tortilla chips for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary cheese used in the Ultimate Spicy Cheese Dip?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of Velveeta cheese, which provides a creamy and gooey texture perfect for dipping.
How should I prepare the Velveeta cheese for melting?
You should cut the Velveeta cheese into approximately 1-inch cubes to ensure it melts easily and evenly.
Should I drain the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies?
No, you should include the entire can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, including all the juices, to add flavor and moisture.
What size can of tomatoes is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires one 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, such as Rotel Original.
How many ingredients are in this cheese dip recipe?
This simple recipe only requires three main ingredients: Velveeta cheese, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, and canned jalapeño slices.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dip?
Yes, you can adjust the heat level by choosing mild or hot jalapeños and by controlling the amount of reserved jalapeño juice you add at the end.
How long does it take to cook the dip on the stovetop?
Once ingredients are combined in a saucepan over medium heat, it takes about 5 minutes of constant stirring to melt and combine everything.
What is the purpose of the reserved jalapeño juice?
The reserved juice is added gradually to the melted cheese mixture to adjust both the heat level and the creamy consistency of the dip.
How much jalapeño juice should I add?
Typically, adding about 1/2 to 3/4 of the juice from the 11 1/2 ounce jar provides a good balance of flavor and creaminess.
Can this recipe be made in a crock pot?
Yes, this dip can be prepared or kept warm in a crock pot, making it ideal for large gatherings and long parties.
Is this cheese dip recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the ingredients (cheese, tomatoes, and jalapeños) are vegetarian-friendly.
What should I serve with the Ultimate Spicy Cheese Dip?
This dip is best served hot with a side of crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
What inspired this specific cheese dip recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the classic Rotel Tomatoes back-of-the-can recipe, which was then tweaked over time to suit various flavor preferences.
What heat setting should I use on the stove?
You should use medium heat to melt the cheese while stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
What size jar of jalapeños is needed?
The recipe calls for one 11 1/2 ounce jar of canned jalapeño slices.
Why is constant stirring important while cooking?
Stirring constantly ensures the cheese melts evenly and prevents the mixture from burning or sticking to the saucepan.
Is this dip suitable for game days?
Absolutely! It is described as a crowd-pleaser and an ideal choice for game days, parties, or casual snacking.
Can I use mild jalapeños instead of hot ones?
Yes, the author specifically recommends the mild variety of canned jalapeño slices for a more balanced heat.
How do I ensure the dip stays gooey?
Keeping the dip warm in a crock pot or serving it immediately after melting ensures it maintains its wonderfully gooey consistency.
What kind of diced tomatoes work best?
The recipe suggests using Rotel Original diced tomatoes with green chilies for a zesty flavor profile.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it and then keep it warm in a crock pot until your guests arrive.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe because it involves simple prep and only 5 minutes of active cooking time.
Can I add other ingredients like meat?
While this specific version is a simple 3-ingredient vegetarian dip, the recipe can serve as a base for many variations.
Does the recipe require salt or extra seasoning?
No extra seasoning is required as the Velveeta, seasoned tomatoes, and jalapeños provide all the necessary flavor and saltiness.
What is the texture of this dip?
The dip is described as creamy, gooey, and perfect for dipping due to the melting properties of Velveeta.
How do I prevent the dip from becoming too thick?
You can thin the dip to your desired consistency by adding more of the reserved jalapeño juice or a splash of milk if needed.
Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of canned?
The recipe specifically uses canned jalapeño slices because the juice from the jar is a key component for the dip's flavor and texture.
Is this dip very spicy?
It has a 'kick' from the jalapeños and green chilies, but it is described as a 'balanced heat' especially if using mild jalapeños.
Should I use a small or medium saucepan?
A medium saucepan is recommended to comfortably hold the 2 lbs of cheese and other ingredients while stirring.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While specific serving numbers aren't listed, 2 lbs of cheese plus the other ingredients make a large batch suitable for a party or large gathering.