Rotel dip is a beloved appetizer in the South, featuring spicy Rotel tomatoes, melted cheese, and often seasoned meat This creamy, indulgent shrimp Rotel dip adds succulent shrimp and savory ground beef to the classic recipe With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this crowd-pleasing hot dip at home.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk through everything you need to know to make incredible shrimp Rotel dip from scratch. Let’s get started!
An Overview of Shrimp Rotel Dip
Shrimp Rotel dip starts with a base of melted cheese, spicy diced Rotel tomatoes, green chilies, and shrimp. Ground beef is cooked and added to the mix, lending meaty flavors. The ingredients are all combined until hot and bubbly, creating an irresistible dip perfect for game day or any party.
The hallmarks of great shrimp Rotel dip are
- Creamy, gooey melted cheese
- Savory, seasoned ground beef
- Plump, cooked shrimp
- Spice from the Rotel tomatoes and green chiles
- A smooth, scoopable texture
Chips or crackers are served alongside for scooping up the dip. It’s also great as a cheesy topping on nachos. This is an easy hot dip to throw together with just 20 minutes of cook time. Let’s go over what you’ll need.
Ingredients for Shrimp Rotel Dip
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb peeled salad shrimp
- 2 cans Rotel diced tomatoes
- 1 can green chilies
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 8 oz shredded cheese (optional)
- Cajun seasoning
- Tortilla chips
That’s all you need for lip-smacking shrimp Rotel dip! Now let’s go step-by-step through how to make it.
How to Make Shrimp Rotel Dip
1. Season and Cook the Ground Beef
Add 1 lb lean ground beef to a skillet over medium heat. Season with about 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook, breaking up the meat, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
2. Season the Shrimp
In a small bowl, add 1 lb peeled salad shrimp. Season with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Base
Add the cubed Velveeta and cans of drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies to the skillet with the beef. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and the mixture comes together, about 5 minutes.
4. Finish Cooking the Shrimp
Stir the seasoned shrimp into the cheesy beef mixture. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Toppings
Taste and add more Cajun seasoning if desired. Top with shredded cheese if using.
Keep warm until ready to serve. Scoop into a slow cooker set to Warm to keep the dip heated.
6. Serve Immediately
Scoop the creamy shrimp Rotel dip into a bowl and serve alongside tortilla chips, crackers, or raw veggies. Dip and enjoy!
Variations for Shrimp Rotel Dip
- Use spicy Rotel or add 1 diced jalapeño for extra heat.
- Swap cooked ground turkey or sausage for the beef.
- Add 1 cup sour cream or mayo for extra richness.
- Use a combo of shredded cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, etc.
- Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
- Substitute crab meat or crawfish tails for the shrimp.
No matter how you customize it, this shrimp Rotel dip always satisfies!
Tips for the Best Shrimp Rotel Dip
Here are some helpful tips for shrimp Rotel dip success:
- Make sure Velveeta is fully melted before adding shrimp.
- Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque throughout to avoid overcooking.
- For creamier dip, add sour cream or mayo to the cheese base.
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent burning on the bottom.
- Add extra spices gradually to your desired spice level.
- For smooth texture, blend with an immersion blender if desired.
- Keep warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish when serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need help making this fan-favorite dip? Here are some common shrimp Rotel dip questions:
What can I use instead of Velveeta?
You can substitute other processed melting cheeses like American cheese slices. Avoid hard cheeses that don’t melt smoothly.
How long does shrimp Rotel dip keep?
Store leftovers covered in the fridge up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently before serving again.
Can I prep this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare through step 3, then cool, cover, and refrigerate up to 2 days before finishing with shrimp.
Can I freeze shrimp Rotel dip?
You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop over low.
What goes well with this dip?
Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, pretzels, bagel chips, or raw cut veggies like celery and carrots.
An Easy Appetizer Sure to Please
Shrimp Rotel dip is one of those crowd-pleasing appetizers perfect for any occasion from game days to parties. The irresistible combo of spicy, cheesy, and creamy flavors never disappoints! With just 20 minutes of active cooking time, this dip can be quickly whipped up for a snack or appetizer any night of the week.