Best Ever Loaded Queso Dip Recipe You Need Today
Ever found yourself at a party, staring down a sad bowl of cheese dip?
It is always so bland. We’ve all been there, friend.
You dip your chip, hoping for a burst of flavor, and what do you get? Disappointment.
Well, get ready to say “adios” to boring cheese dips forever because this loaded queso dip recipe changes the game.
We’re talking about a dip so packed with flavor that your taste buds will throw a fiesta. This is the best recipe for that dip.
What is Loaded Queso Dip?
Loaded queso dip is a creamy, cheesy dip. People often make it with a base of melted cheese, like Velveeta or a Mexican cheese blend.
Then they mix in a variety of tasty ingredients.
These often include seasoned ground beef, spicy chorizo, and Rotel.
Rotel is a mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
Sometimes people add black beans, corn, and fresh toppings, such as cilantro and pico de gallo.
So good.
This dip is a Tex-Mex favorite, and it is way better than regular queso.
Why This Loaded Queso Recipe is the Best
Our recipe stands out. We use a special blend of cheeses. There is a mix of ground beef and chorizo.
We are not holding back on the good stuff.
There’s also a couple of cans of Rotel.
One is the original kind and the other is the Hot variety.
This adds the perfect amount of heat. Forget those other recipes; this one’s the real deal.
Your friends will ask for it by name, trust us.
Key Ingredients for the Ultimate Loaded Queso
Here’s what you will need to make this killer dip:
- Ground Beef: We use 80/20 ground beef. This blend brings the right amount of richness and flavor.
- Chorizo: This spicy Mexican sausage gives the queso a smoky, savory kick. Don’t leave it out.
- Yellow Onion: A finely diced yellow onion will add a bit of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances all the other flavors. It is a must-have.
- Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies: Two cans. We use the original and the Hot variety. It provides a zesty punch and makes things interesting.
- Jalapeño: You can put a minced jalapeño in it for extra heat. It’s your choice.
- Velveeta Cheese: This cheese melts like a dream. It creates that signature creamy texture.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a little tang. It also makes it even creamier.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: This mild, melty cheese complements the Velveeta.
- Pepper Jack Cheese: A bit of Pepper Jack brings a little extra spice.
- Milk or Half-and-Half: A splash of this helps achieve the perfect dip consistency. You want it thick but not goopy.
- Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika: These spices amp up the flavor. They make it taste like a real fiesta.
- Salt and Pepper: Just a bit to balance everything out.
How to Make the Perfect Loaded Queso Dip (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps. You will have the best dip in no time.
- First, grab a large skillet. You will want to brown the ground beef and chorizo together over medium-high heat.
- Next, as the meat cooks, keep breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any extra grease when it’s no longer pink.
- Add that onion to the skillet. Cook it until it’s soft, should take about 5 minutes. Then you will stir in the garlic, cook it for another minute. It should be nice and fragrant.
- Get both of those cans of Rotel and pour them right into the skillet. Include all the liquid. Add the minced jalapeño if that’s your thing.
- Turn the heat down to low. Add all the cheeses. Stir it all up until it is smooth and melty.
- If the queso is too thick just add a little milk or half and half. Do it a tablespoon at a time. Get that perfect consistency.
- Season your queso with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. You can put in some salt and pepper too.
- Transfer to a bowl. Garnish it.
Loaded Queso Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Description
Forget bland, boring cheese dips! This Loaded Queso is a flavor explosion that will have your friends and family begging for the recipe. It’s packed with seasoned ground beef, spicy chorizo, a blend of melty cheeses, and just the right amount of kick. Perfect for game day, parties, or just a fun weeknight snack attack, this dip is guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready to experience queso like never before.
Equipment:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound chorizo, casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, undrained
- 1 (10-ounce) can Hot Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, undrained
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (8-ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half (as needed to adjust consistency)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Pico de gallo
- Diced avocado
- Sliced green onions
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chorizo over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it is no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. You should smell the garlic’s aroma.
- Pour in both cans of Rotel, including the liquid. Add the minced jalapeño, if using. Stir everything to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed Velveeta, softened cream cheese, Monterey Jack, and Pepper Jack cheeses to the skillet.
- Stir frequently until the cheeses are completely melted and the dip is smooth and creamy. If the queso is too thick, add milk or half-and-half, a tablespoon at a time, until you get the perfect consistency.
- Season the queso with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Everyone has different tastes!
- Transfer the queso to a serving bowl. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, diced avocado, sliced green onions, sour cream, or guacamole.
- Serve immediately with warm tortilla chips. Enjoy the party!
Notes
- The Secret Ingredient: This recipe uses two cans of Rotel. One is the original and the second one is the Hot variety. This adds a nice boost of heat. This is what sets it apart from others. Instead of just adding jalapenos for heat, the second variety of Rotel adds another dimension of flavor. You still get all the great flavor of the original but with just the right amount of heat.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and chorizo. You can add 1-2 cups of cooked black beans or lentils for extra protein and texture.
- If you want a smokier flavor, try adding a 1/4 teaspoon of chipotle powder along with the other spices.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of cheese, spice, and toppings to suit your preferences. This is your queso masterpiece!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Pro Tips for Queso Perfection
Want to take your queso to the next level? Try out these tips.
- Use freshly grated cheese. It melts better than the pre-shredded stuff.
- Don’t overheat the cheese. Low and slow is the way to go.
- Want a smoky flavor? Try adding a dash of chipotle powder.
- Serve it right away. Queso is best when it’s warm and gooey.
Delicious Variations and Customizations
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and add black beans or lentils for protein.
- Spice it up: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if ya like.
- Go wild with toppings: Try adding some corn, black olives, or a dollop of sour cream. Make it your own.
How to Serve Your Loaded Queso
Serve this dip warm with plenty of tortilla chips. You can put out a bunch of toppings on the side. Let your guests customize their own bowls. It will be a hit.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Queso Dip
Got leftovers? You can store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, just warm it up on the stove over low heat. You might want to add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Nutritional Insights
Here’s a little insight into what you’re eating:
- Each serving has around 350 calories.
- It’s got a good amount of protein, about 18 grams per serving.
- It is a bit high in fat and sodium, so don’t eat the whole bowl.
Remember, these are estimates. The exact numbers may vary.
Ingredient Alternatives
- Can’t find chorizo? Use breakfast sausage instead.
- No Velveeta? Try another melty cheese, like American or Queso Blanco.
- Don’t have Rotel? Use diced tomatoes and green chilies from different cans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Queso Dip
You bet. Make it a day or two in advance. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
I wouldn’t. The texture might change when you thaw it out.
Yep, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla chips.
Sure. Just brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours.
Add a little more milk or half-and-half until it’s the way you like it.
Just keep cooking it over low heat, uncovered, until it thickens up.
Go for it. Experiment with your favorites. As long as it melts, it should work.
The Final Bite
So there you have it, friends – you’re officially armed with the knowledge to create a Loaded Queso Dip that will be talked about long after the last chip is gone.
We’ve walked you through the ins and outs of this cheesy masterpiece, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering those little tips and tricks that elevate a good dip to legendary status.
Now the only thing left is for you to put your newfound queso prowess into action.
Go forth and make a dip so delicious, so unforgettable, that it becomes the stuff of legend at your next gathering.
You might even find yourself making it just for a cozy night in. And hey, we wouldn’t blame you one bit. Enjoy every single cheesy, spicy, glorious bite!
Disclosure: This article uses automation for structure, but all insights and advice are provided by Ryan Yates, an experienced executive chef with over 20 years of expertise. Additionally, this post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. This helps support our work and allows us to keep providing high-quality content.