Summer is here, and you know what that means, BBQs, pool parties, fresh salads, and iced tea galore! And, of course, it’s the perfect season for chips and 3-ingredient spicy queso dip. This creamy, flavorful cheese sauce couldn’t be easier to make, requiring just three simple ingredients.
It’s quick to prepare and versatile enough to bring to a potluck, serve poolside, or satisfy a group of hungry teenagers and their friends.
How to 3-Ingredient Spicy Queso Dip
Ready to whip up a crowd-pleasing dip with minimal effort? Follow these five easy steps, and you’ll have a spicy queso dip so good that your friends and family will keep coming back for more!
Step 1: Cube the Velveeta Cheese
Start by chopping up 16 oz of Velveeta cheese into small, even cubes. I used the reduced-fat version for a lighter option, but feel free to use the classic version or whichever variety you prefer. Cutting the cheese into cubes is key because it helps it melt more quickly and evenly when heated. The smaller the cubes, the more surface area they provide for melting, which means less time spent on the stove and more time enjoying your dip!
Step 2: Choose Your Rotel Diced Tomatoes
Next, grab a can of Rotel diced tomatoes. My favorite is the version with green chiles because it adds a little extra heat and depth to the dip. If you prefer less spice, you can opt for the mild version, but the green chiles really bring that signature kick. This ingredient is what gives your queso its bold, tangy flavor that pairs so perfectly with chips or any other dipping goodies you have on hand.
Step 3: Melt Ingredients Over Medium Heat
Place your Velveeta cheese cubes and Rotel tomatoes (including all the juices) in a medium-sized saucepan. Turn the stove to medium heat and start stirring. It’s important to keep stirring constantly as the cheese melts to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan or burning. You’ll know it’s ready when everything blends together into a smooth, creamy, perfectly gooey sauce that’s just calling out for a chip!
Step 4: Add Tapatio for an Extra Kick
To amp up the flavor, squeeze in a couple of squirts of Tapatio hot sauce, about a teaspoon works well, but you can adjust depending on your heat preference. Stir it thoroughly into the melted cheese mixture so every bite has that spicy, tangy kick. If you’re feeling adventurous or love extra heat, you could even add another dash or two. The Tapatio ties everything together and gives your 3-ingredient spicy queso dip that irresistible zing!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, pour your 3-ingredient spicy queso dip into your favorite serving dish, something wide and shallow works great for easy dipping. Open up a bag (or two!) of tortilla chips and dig in while the dip is still warm and creamy. This queso is also fantastic as a topping for nachos, hot dogs, or even baked potatoes. If you’re serving it at a party or gathering, consider keeping it warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting so everyone can keep grabbing bites throughout the day. Whatever way you share it, this queso is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Serving Tips and Additional Uses
I usually make this dip when my hubby has his friends over to watch the football game. I always make sure I have at least 3 bags of chips when the guys come over because the dip is such a hit. This is also great to take poolside, to a potluck, or even to pour over hot dogs and nachos. If you would like to keep it warm for serving, pour it into a Crockpot and turn the setting to warm.
With this easy 3-ingredient spicy queso dip, the possibilities are endless! If you need other appetizer or dip ideas, you may want to check out these 6 irresistible dips for game day. Included are my recipes for homemade cilantro-lime salsa and chunky restaurant-style guacamole. Happy cooking, y’all!
