Secret Ingredient Rotel Dip Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound processed cheese food (such as Velveeta), cubed
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (such as Rotel Original), undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can beef in chili sauce tamales (such as Hormel)

Directions

Step 1: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Add the cubed Velveeta and the undrained Rotel to the skillet.

Step 3: Open the can of tamales, remove them from the packaging, and place them on a cutting board.

Step 4: Pour the chili sauce from the tamale can into the Velveeta and Rotel mixture.

Step 5: Discard the papers from the tamales and chop the tamales into small pieces.

Step 6: Add the chopped tamales to the cheese mixture in the skillet.

Step 7: Cook the mixture for about 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until the Velveeta is fully melted and all ingredients are heated through.

Step 8: Serve immediately with tortilla chips.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Item	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	398	-
Total Fat	26g	33%
Saturated Fat	14g	71%
Cholesterol	83mg	28%
Sodium	1601mg	70%
Total Carbohydrate	22g	8%
Dietary Fiber	3g	11%
Total Sugars	8g	-
Protein	20g	39%
Vitamin C	23mg	26%
Calcium	396mg	30%
Iron	2mg	11%
Potassium	578mg	12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Secret Ingredient Rotel Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for gatherings, parties, or game days. This creamy, cheesy dip combines processed cheese, canned tomatoes with green chilies, and a surprise ingredientcanned tamales. The tamales not only add a unique flavor, but they also make this dip even easier to prepare. By skipping the need for browning meat or sausage, this dish provides a simpler alternative to more traditional cheesy dips.

History and Origin

The origins of this dip can be traced to Southern and Tex-Mex cuisine, where cheese dips are a staple at almost every party or festive occasion. The Rotel dip, in particular, gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, thanks to the spread of canned goods like Velveeta cheese and Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies. While variations of cheesy dips have been around for decades, the addition of tamales as a key ingredient sets this version apart, adding a savory depth and a more substantial bite to the creamy mixture.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of a cheesy dip with tomatoes and chiles is common in Tex-Mex cuisine, regional variations do exist. Some might use ground beef, sausage, or even seafood as a protein source, while others could add more heat with additional spices or hot peppers. In the South and Southwest of the United States, dips like these are a frequent part of celebrations, particularly during football season or holidays. The use of tamales in this dip is more of a creative twist, not typically seen in other regional adaptations.

How It's Different From Similar Dips

What makes the Secret Ingredient Rotel Dip stand out from other cheese dips is its use of tamales. Traditional Rotel dip recipes usually feature a combination of Velveeta cheese and Rotel tomatoes and chilies, with some recipes adding sausage or ground beef for additional flavor. However, by adding canned tamales, you skip the browning of meat and get a quicker, more flavorful result. The tamales infuse the dip with a unique texture and taste, unlike other similar cheesy dips that rely solely on cheese and meat.

Where It's Typically Served

This dip is most commonly served at informal gatherings, such as parties, family barbecues, or game-day celebrations. Its creamy, savory flavor pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips, crackers, or even fresh vegetables for dipping. You'll find it on appetizer tables during festive occasions, and it's especially popular at Tex-Mex-themed parties. In fact, many Mexican restaurants and Tex-Mex eateries might even feature variations of this dip on their menus.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of Velveeta cheese and Rotel tomatoes was first introduced in the 1950s and quickly became a household staple for easy, creamy dips.
• The secret ingredient, tamales, is a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine and is often made with masa (corn dough) and a variety of fillings, such as pork, chicken, or beef.
• The original Velveeta cheese was developed in the 1920s by the Monroe Cheese Company and has since become a common ingredient in American comfort food recipes.
• Rotel tomatoes, with their signature blend of tomatoes and green chilies, are a popular choice for recipes that call for a little extra heat, such as dips, soups, and casseroles.
• In some parts of the United States, this dip is referred to as "Velveeta Rotel dip" or simply "cheese dip," showcasing how familiar and beloved the combination of Velveeta and Rotel has become in American cooking.

FAQ about Secret Ingredient Rotel Dip Recipe