This Spicy Cowboy Queso Dip is the perfect appetizer for game days, parties, or any casual gathering. Packed with flavorful ingredients like ground beef, chorizo, jalapeños, and a mix of melty cheeses, this queso dip is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of spices and fresh cilantro adds a bold kick, making it irresistible with every scoop. Here’s how you can make it!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb chorizo sausage
- 1 white onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- Black beans (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chorizo sausage together until fully browned, which should take about 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped white onion, diced red bell pepper, and chopped jalapeños to the skillet with the meat. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat to low and add the Velveeta, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, diced tomatoes with green chiles (including the liquid), and milk. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season: Stir in the cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste. If using black beans, you can stir them in at this point.
- Add Cilantro: Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh cilantro to give the dip a bright, fresh finish.
- Serve Hot: Serve the dip immediately with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or warm soft pretzels for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your queso extra spicy, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, use only one jalapeño or replace them with green bell peppers.
- Add Beans: Black beans or pinto beans can be a great addition to this queso dip. Stir them in along with the cheese for extra texture and protein.
- Use Different Meats: If you’re not a fan of chorizo, you can use spicy Italian sausage or breakfast sausage instead. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Customize Your Cheese: While this recipe uses Velveeta, cheddar, and Monterey Jack, you can switch things up by using pepper jack for an extra kick or Colby cheese for a milder flavor.
- Make it a Meal: Turn this dip into a full meal by serving it over nachos or inside burritos, tacos, or quesadillas.
How to Store:
- Refrigerate: Let the dip cool completely, then store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring every 30 seconds, or warm it up over low heat on the stove.
- Freeze: While this dip is best served fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dip cool and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs:
- Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
- Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop as directed. Then transfer everything, including the cheese and milk, into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
- What can I serve with this dip?
- Tortilla chips are the classic choice, but you can also serve this dip with crusty bread, soft pretzels, vegetable sticks (like celery or carrot), or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
- Can I make it ahead of time?
- Absolutely. You can prepare the dip in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Reheat it gently on the stove or in a slow cooker when ready to serve.
- Is there a substitute for Velveeta cheese?
- If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute it with cream cheese or a combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack, although the consistency may not be as smooth.
This Spicy Cowboy Queso Dip is sure to become a favorite for any occasion. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect dish to satisfy any crowd. Enjoy!