Game days, family gatherings, and even casual Friday nights call for a dip that’s warm, cheesy, and impossible to resist. This dip with Rotel and sausage is one of my go-to appetizers whenever I need something easy that everyone will love. It’s rich, creamy, and full of bold flavor, plus it comes together in minutes before your slow cooker does the rest of the work.
I’ve been making this dip for years, and it always earns rave reviews. What’s amazing about this is how stress-free it is: you can make it ahead, keep it warm for hours, and let your guests scoop it up whenever they’re ready. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and effortless entertaining.
Dip With Rotel and Sausage
This dip is all about creamy, melty cheese balanced with the bold bite of Rotel tomatoes. It’s one of those recipes anyone can make; just 10 minutes of prep and the slow cooker does the rest while you get on with your day. I like that it uses simple, affordable ingredients most of us keep on hand. And the fun part is how easy it is to make it your own by swapping proteins, playing with different cheeses, or adding extra spice if you like things hotter.
My family and friends loved this dip! tasty,cheesy and good dip for parties.
—Kay
Ingredient Notes
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, be sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Pork sausage: Mild or hot works. Try turkey sausage or chorizo for a different flavor.
- Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: Use mild or hot depending on your spice preference.
- Velveeta cheese: Classic choice for a smooth melt. Cut it into chunks so it melts faster and more evenly. Swap with another processed cheese block if needed.
- Cream cheese: Cut into chunks as well and let it soften first so it stirs in easily. You can swap for dairy-free cream cheese if needed
- Fresh cilantro: Optional, but it adds freshness. Parsley or even green onions is a good substitute if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
- Onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness. Try garlic powder for more depth.
How To Make Dip With Rotel and Sausage
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, then drain off the excess grease. This keeps the dip from being greasy.
Load the Crockpot
Add the cooked sausage, Rotel (with liquid), Velveeta chunks, cream cheese, cilantro (if using), and onion powder into your slow cooker. Stir everything together. It won’t be perfectly smooth yet, and that’s okay.
Let It Cook
Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. When the cheese has fully melted, uncover and stir until it all blends into one creamy, cheesy dip.
Switch the slow cooker to warm so it stays smooth and ready to enjoy. Serve it straight from the pot with tortilla chips or any dippers you love.
Yes! Brown the sausage, then stir in the remaining ingredients over low heat until melted and creamy, about 10 minutes.
Variations, Substitutions, and Recipe Tips
Spicy: Stir in fresh jalapeños, chipotle powder, or a dash of cayenne.
Hearty: Add a drained can of pinto or black beans.
Flavor boost: Sprinkle in taco seasoning, smoked paprika, or a splash of hot sauce.
Different proteins: Ground beef, shredded chicken, or even plant-based sausage work well.
Serving idea: Pour over baked potatoes, use as a nacho topping, or serve with sturdy veggies like bell peppers or celery sticks.
Hospitality Challenge
Invite a few friends, neighbors, or church members over for a simple Bible Trivia & Snacks Night. No need to plan a big meal, just set out a few easy treats like chips, this How to Make Firecrackers (Spicy Ranch Snack Crackers), Easy Homemade Jalapeño Popcorn Recipe, drinks, and your warm Rotel and sausage dip to keep everyone satisfied. You could even set out a sweet option like Sweet Creamy Pineapple Dip to balance out the savory flavors.
Mix in some fun rounds of Bible trivia between board games or conversation, and keep the atmosphere light and joyful. Whether people know every answer or not, the goal is to create a space where faith, fun, and friendship can grow side by side. It’s an easy way to enjoy fellowship, learn a little more about God’s Word, and create meaningful memories without a lot of pressure or planning.
More Easy Party Dips To Try
- Rich And Creamy Pretzel Cheese Dip Recipe
- Sweet Creamy Pumpkin Dip
- 15-Minute Sweet And Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
- Creamy Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Classic Knorr Vegetable Dip Recipe
This dip with Rotel and sausage is the kind of recipe that makes hosting easy and fun, because it’s always a hit at the table. If you have any questions about making this recipe, feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help!
Cheesy Dip With Rotel and Sausage
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Ingredients
- 16 ounces pork sausage
- 20 ounces Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, canned, two 10-ounce cans, do not drain
- 32 ounces Velveeta cheese, block, cut into chunks
- 8 ounces cream cheese, block, cut into chunks, room temperature
- 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, optional, finely chopped with stems removed
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain the excess grease.16 ounces pork sausage
Assemble in Crock Pot
- Transfer the sausage to a slow cooker. Add the Rotel tomatoes (with liquid), Velveeta, cream cheese, cilantro (if using), and onion powder. Stir to combine.20 ounces Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, 32 ounces Velveeta cheese, 8 ounces cream cheese, 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, 1 teaspoon onion powder
Cook and Stir
- Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or until the cheese is fully melted. Stir until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute).
Serve
- Set the slow cooker to warm and serve with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.
Gina’s Notes and Tips
- Storage: Let the dip cool a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, or place back in the crock pot on low until heated through. This dip is thick, so it would probably scorch if you heated it on the stovetop
- Freezing: This dip doesn’t freeze well because of the cheese base, so enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making it.
What size crock pot is used in this this recipe? I have a small crock pot.
Sandy, Use a 4- to 6-quart crockpot. A 4-quart size is sufficient for the ingredients listed, but a 6-quart provides extra room for stirring and serving, especially if you’re doubling or tripling the recipe.
my family and friends loved this dip! tasty,cheesy and good dip for parties.
Kay, thanks for taking the time to share that y’all like this dip. I added you at the top of the post as a star reviewer.