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Smoky queso dip, the ultimate game day appetizer, is served in a cast iron skillet and garnished with fresh cilantro.
Lady Maria

Smoky Queso Dip: Game Day Gold

This Smoky Queso Dip is the ultimate game day appetizer, boasting a creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavor with a hint of spice. It's incredibly easy to make and customizable to your preferences, guaranteeing a crowd-pleasing dip that can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2025
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 pound Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
  • 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Tortilla chips, for serving
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado
  • Optional toppings: sour cream
  • Optional toppings: crumbled bacon

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • knife
  • Cheese grater
  • Serving bowl
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Slow cooker or chafing dish (optional, for keeping warm)
  • mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Prepare the cheeses: Cube the Velveeta and shred the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. This ensures even melting.
  2. Combine ingredients in a pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the Velveeta, Monterey Jack, cheddar, diced tomatoes and green chilies, green chilies, milk, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Melt over medium heat: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until all the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. This will take about 15-20 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to prevent scorching!
  4. Adjust consistency: If the queso is too thick, add a little more milk or half-and-half until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken slightly as it cools.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings: Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Need more salt? Go for it! This is your queso, so make it your own!
  6. Serve immediately: Pour the queso into a serving bowl and top with your favorite toppings. Serve with tortilla chips, vegetables, or pretzel bites.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. To keep the queso warm for serving, use a slow cooker or chafing dish on the warm setting. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to control the spiciness. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently. For a vegetarian option, add black beans, corn, or roasted vegetables. This queso can also be used as a topping for nachos, tacos, or baked potatoes.