Cowboy Queso is a fun and cheesy dip that’s loaded with tasty goodies! It has gooey cheese, spicy sausage, and zesty tomatoes, making it a crowd favorite.
It’s perfect for game day or any get-together! I like to serve it with crunchy tortilla chips for some extra fun. Just remember, it can get messy, but that’s part of the excitement! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Sausage: Use either ground beef or breakfast sausage for great flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken also work well. For a vegetarian version, try using mushrooms or plant-based sausage!
Jalapeño Pepper: This adds spice! If you prefer it milder, use a bell pepper instead, or leave it out entirely. A dash of cayenne pepper can also replace fresh jalapeño for heat.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar cheese gives great flavor, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess. If you’re out of one, feel free to substitute with any melty cheese type like Gouda or even a vegan cheese option!
Black Beans: If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans make tasty substitutes. They add protein and fiber, making the dip heartier.
How Do I Make Sure My Queso is Creamy and Smooth?
To achieve that perfect creamy texture in your queso, here are a few steps to follow:
- Start with softened cream cheese to ensure it melts easily. Cut it into cubes for quicker melting.
- Add the cheese gradually while stirring continuously. This prevents clumping and ensures everything melds together nicely.
- If the queso is too thick, sprinkle in a bit of milk, stirring until you reach the desired creaminess. You want it to have a dip-able consistency!
By following these tips, you can achieve a smooth and delicious Cowboy Queso that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!
How to Make Cowboy Queso
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Queso:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or breakfast sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 1 can (10 oz / 283 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (4 oz / 115 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (or as needed for desired consistency)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Fresh diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- Extra jalapeño slices
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Queso will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready, cooking the meat and veggies, and then about 15-20 minutes on making the cheesy goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium-high heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure to break it up into small pieces while it cooks. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain it to keep your queso from being greasy!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Mix in the Flavor:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, black beans, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and some salt and pepper. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to meld those delicious flavors.
4. Creamy Cheese Time:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add in the cubed cream cheese. Stir it until it melts completely and blends in with the meat and vegetables. This will create a nice creamy base!
5. Add the Cheddar and Milk:
Now, gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses along with the milk. Keep stirring as the cheese melts to ensure it becomes smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more milk until you get your perfect queso consistency!
6. Final Touch:
Once your queso is all creamy and cheesy, remove your skillet from heat. Garnish the top with fresh diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, additional jalapeño slices, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to brighten it up!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Cowboy Queso immediately with plenty of crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy this delightfully hearty dip at your next gathering or just for a cozy snack on your own!
Happy dipping! 🌽🧀
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be sure to season it well, as it can be milder compared to beef. You might want to add a little extra seasoning for flavor!
How Can I Make This Queso Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also increase the beans for added protein and texture!
What Should I Do If My Queso Becomes Too Thick?
If your queso ends up too thick, simply stir in a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency. You can also use broth for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Queso?
Store any leftover queso in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.
