Cowboy Queso Recipe

Introduction

Cowboy Queso is a rich, creamy dip perfect for gatherings or game day snacks. Combining melted cheese with savory meats and flavorful vegetables, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of heat and heartiness in every bite.

Ingredients

• 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 8 oz Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb chorizo or sausage, casings removed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes or Rotel, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chorizo until browned. Break the meat apart and drain excess fat.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, jalapeños, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low and add the Velveeta and Pepper Jack cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely and form a smooth, creamy dip.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and serve warm with tortilla chips, veggies, or your favorite dipping snacks.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or cream while melting the cheese.
• Substitute chorizo with spicy Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add a handful of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for fresh brightness before serving.
• Use canned jalapeños for a milder spice level or keep the seeds for a hotter dip.

Storage

Store leftover cowboy queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make cowboy queso ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it covered in a warm oven or slow cooker set to low. Reheat gently before serving to keep it smooth and creamy.

What can I serve with cowboy queso?

This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, sliced veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers, or even warm pita bread for dipping.

Cowboy Queso Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 471 reviews

Cowboy Queso is a rich, creamy, and hearty dip that combines melted Velveeta and Pepper Jack cheeses with savory ground beef, spicy chorizo, and a medley of fresh vegetables like onions, tomatoes, black beans, corn, and jalapeños. Perfect for gatherings and game days, this flavorful dip offers a balance of creamy, spicy, and savory notes that will delight your guests.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheeses

• 16 oz Velveeta Cheese, cubed
• 8 oz Pepper Jack Cheese, shredded

Meats

• 1/2 pound Ground Beef
• 1/2 pound Chorizo or Sausage, casing removed

Vegetables and Legumes

• 1 small Onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (10 oz) Diced Tomatoes or Rotel, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup Corn (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
• 1–2 Jalapeños, seeded and chopped (adjust to taste)

Spices and Others

• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and chorizo together until fully cooked and no longer pink. Break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks, then drain excess grease.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and jalapeños to the skillet with the cooked meats. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Corn: Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the mixture to warm through.
4. Add Spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
5. Melt the Cheeses: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the Velveeta cubes and shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted and the dip is smooth and creamy.
6. Serve Warm: Transfer the Cowboy Queso to a serving bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables for dipping.

Notes

• Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat level of the queso.
• For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk while melting the cheese.
• Leftover queso can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.
• Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef and chorizo for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian option: omit meats and add extra beans and vegetables.

Keywords: Cowboy Queso, queso dip, party dip, game day appetizer, cheesy dip, Tex-Mex dip, spicy queso