Cowboy Queso: The Cheesy, Spicy Dip That Will Steal the Show!

Cowboy Queso

Why Make This Recipe?
Cowboy Queso is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dip, perfect for game days, parties, or a casual night in. This cheesy, creamy, and spicy dip combines the bold flavors of melted cheese, savory sausage, and smoky chiles with a hint of spice. It’s a one-pan recipe that comes together quickly and is guaranteed to have everyone coming back for more!

Recipe Overview

  • Servings: 8-10 (as an appetizer)
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: ~30 minutes

How to Make Cowboy Queso

Ingredients

  • For the Dip:
    • 1 lb ground sausage (or ground beef) ????
    • 1 medium onion, diced ????
    • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained ????
    • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional for extra spice) ????️
    • 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed ????
    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened ????
    • ½ cup whole milk ????
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika ????️
    • ½ tsp garlic powder ????
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Garnish:
    • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro ????
    • ¼ cup diced jalapeños (optional for heat) ????️
    • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) ????

Directions

  1. Cook the Sausage
    • In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks.
    • Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the Tomatoes and Chilies
    • Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the optional green chilies. Cook for 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
  3. Melt the Cheeses
    • Lower the heat to medium-low and add the Velveeta cheese cubes, cream cheese, and milk. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Season the Dip
    • Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  5. Garnish and Serve
    • Transfer the queso to a serving bowl or keep it warm in a slow cooker. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

How to Serve Cowboy Queso

Serve this dip warm with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. It’s also a great topping for nachos, tacos, or baked potatoes.

How to Store Cowboy Queso

  1. Refrigerate: Transfer leftover queso to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  2. Reheat: Reheat the dip in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture. Alternatively, microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
  3. Freeze: While freezing is not ideal for queso due to the cheese’s texture changes, it can be done. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Cowboy Queso

  1. Use High-Quality Sausage: The sausage sets the base flavor of the dip, so choose a good-quality brand.
  2. Keep It Warm: Serve the queso in a small slow cooker or warming dish to keep it melty and smooth throughout the event.
  3. Adjust the Heat: For a milder dip, skip the jalapeños and green chilies. For more spice, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Variations

  1. Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground meat.
  2. Extra Meaty: Add cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for additional protein.
  3. Southwest Style: Stir in black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for a hearty twist.

Tips for Success

  • Stir Often: When melting the cheeses, stir frequently to prevent burning or sticking.
  • Thin It Out: If the queso becomes too thick, add more milk a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Prep Ahead: Cook the sausage and onion mixture in advance, then melt the cheeses and combine everything just before serving.

How Many Servings?

This recipe serves 8-10 as an appetizer or dip.

Calories and Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~280
  • Protein: ~14g
  • Fats: ~22g
    • Saturated Fats: ~12g
  • Carbohydrates: ~6g
    • Fiber: ~1g
  • Sodium: ~750mg

Health Benefits of Cowboy Queso

  1. Protein-Packed: Sausage and cheese provide a good amount of protein to keep you full.
  2. Rich in Calcium: The cheeses contribute to your daily calcium intake for bone health.
  3. Customizable: It can be tailored to include vegetables for added vitamins and minerals.

Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?

Yes, with adjustments:

  1. Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium sausage, cheese, and tomatoes to reduce the salt content.
  2. Gentle on Digestion: Skip the green chilies and jalapeños for a milder flavor that’s easier on the stomach.
  3. Smaller Portions: Serve smaller portions alongside fresh vegetables for a lighter snack.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it just before serving.

2. What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
You can use a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Add 1 tbsp of cornstarch to the mix to help it melt smoothly.

3. Can I make Cowboy Queso in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook the sausage and onion on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker to melt the cheeses and keep the dip warm.

Cowboy Queso is a cheesy, meaty dip that’s quick, easy, and loaded with bold flavors. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or game-day snacking, this dip will be a hit every time. Try it today and let us know how you liked it!

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