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A rich, melty beef and cheese dip made in a crock‑pot. Ground beef, sharp cheddar, colby‑jack, cream cheese, and Rotel tomatoes combine for a crowd‑pleasing appetizer perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Beef and cheese dip evolved from traditional Mexican queso fundido, which combines melted cheese with chorizo or other meats. In the United States, especially in Texas, the dish was adapted with ground beef and canned Rotel, becoming a staple at sports bars and family gatherings.
In Texas, the dip often uses cheddar and Monterey Jack with ground beef, while in northern Mexico, queso fundido may feature chorizo, Oaxaca cheese, and fresh tomatillos. Some regions add roasted poblano peppers for extra smoky flavor.
It is typically served hot in the crock‑pot or a heated serving bowl, accompanied by tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks. It’s a popular appetizer for football games, tailgate parties, and casual get‑togethers.
The dip is a go‑to snack for Super Bowl parties, Fourth of July barbecues, and casual weekend get‑together with friends. Its easy‑serve nature makes it perfect for any informal celebration.
Serve alongside guacamole, salsa, grilled fajita vegetables, or as a topping for loaded nachos. It also complements a taco bar or a simple grilled chicken salad for a more complete meal.
Cooking the dip in a crock‑pot allows the flavors to meld slowly, resulting in an ultra‑creamy texture without the risk of scorching that can happen on the stovetop. The addition of Rotel provides a bright tomato‑chili base that balances the richness of the cheeses and beef.
Common errors include not stirring regularly, which causes cheese to stick and burn, and adding the cheeses too early without enough liquid, leading to clumpy texture. Also, be sure the ground beef is fully cooked before serving to ensure food safety.
The crock‑pot provides gentle, even heat that melts the cheeses slowly, preventing scorching and allowing the beef to cook through without constant attention. This hands‑off method is ideal for busy home cooks.
Yes. Prepare the dip up to the point of cooking, then refrigerate the assembled ingredients for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply start the crock‑pot. Leftovers store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on low, stirring frequently.
The YouTube channel Eating with Edward focuses on simple, family‑friendly American comfort food recipes, often featuring one‑pot or slow‑cooker techniques that make meals quick and easy for busy households.
Eating with Edward emphasizes minimal ingredient lists and straightforward equipment, favoring the crock‑pot for Tex‑Mex dishes like this dip, whereas many other channels rely on stovetop sautéing or oven baking. His style is geared toward convenience without sacrificing flavor.