Description
Cowboy Queso is the ultimate cheesy dip packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors. Made with melty cheeses, seasoned meats, beans, and zesty spices, this dip is perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering. It’s creamy, hearty, and irresistibly delicious when served with tortilla chips or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Cheese and Dairy:
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 8 oz Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
Meats:
- ½ lb ground beef
- ½ lb chorizo or spicy sausage
Vegetables and Legumes:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and minced
Seasonings and Garnishes:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of half a lime
Instructions
Cook the Meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add chorizo and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Sauté the Vegetables: Stir in diced onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add minced jalapeños and cook for another 2 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir well to combine.
Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta and shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
Season and Finish: Mix in ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir in lime juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
Serve Warm: Transfer the queso to a serving bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips, bread, or as a topping for tacos and nachos.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels by adding more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or omit the meat for a vegetarian alternative.
- Keep warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting for parties.
- If the queso thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk or broth to adjust consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex