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Cowboy Queso 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)
  • 12 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