Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 450 g Velveeta cheese, cubed
02 - 1 can (284 g) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
03 - 115 g cream cheese, softened
04 - 120 ml milk or heavy cream, plus more as needed
05 - 28 g ranch seasoning mix
06 - 0.5 tsp garlic powder
07 - 0.5 tsp onion powder

→ Optional Additions

08 - 225 g ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
09 - Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
02 - In a large saucepan or slow cooker, add cubed Velveeta and softened cream cheese. Heat on low, stirring occasionally, until completely melted and smooth.
03 - Add Rotel tomatoes with their juices, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder to the melted cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine.
04 - Gradually pour in milk or heavy cream while stirring, until the dip reaches your preferred consistency. Continue stirring until smooth.
05 - If using, stir in the cooked ground beef or sausage. Continue heating for several minutes to blend flavors, stirring occasionally.
06 - Transfer the queso to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, and serve hot with tortilla chips, pretzels, or sliced vegetables.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the dip stays warm during serving by using a slow cooker on the 'warm' setting to prevent thickening.
02 - Adjust milk or cream slowly to achieve desired dipping consistency; the warmer the dip, the thinner it will appear.