**Cheesy Sausage Queso Dip**

**Cheesy Sausage Queso Dip**

**Ingredients:**

– 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
– 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 16 oz (1 lb) Velveeta cheese, cubed
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
– Tortilla chips, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Sausage:**
– In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the ground sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
– Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.

2. **Add the Tomatoes and Spices:**
– Stir in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

3. **Melt the Cheeses:**
– Reduce the heat to low, and add the Velveeta cheese and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
– Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.

4. **Serve:**
– Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, or serve it directly from the skillet. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
– Serve warm with tortilla chips, bread, or vegetables for dipping.

This **Cheesy Sausage Queso Dip** is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect appetizer for parties, game days, or any casual gathering. Enjoy!