Short Description
This creamy chorizo queso dip is a rich, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Made with spicy chorizo, melted cheese, and a touch of spice, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in under 20 minutes
- Packed with bold, savory flavors
- Perfect for game nights, parties, and gatherings
- Customizable with different cheeses and spice levels
- Can be made on the stovetop or in a slow cooker
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chorizo sausage, casing removed
- Cream cheese, softened
- Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- Jalapeño, diced (optional for extra spice)
- Garlic, minced
- Milk or heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
Directions
- Cook the chorizo: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté aromatics: Add minced garlic and diced jalapeño to the skillet, cooking until fragrant.
- Melt the cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack, and cheddar cheese.
- Add tomatoes: Mix in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and stir until smooth.
- Adjust consistency: Pour in milk or heavy cream gradually, stirring until the queso reaches your desired texture.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker. Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Mild Version: Use mild chorizo and omit the jalapeños.
- Extra Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or more diced jalapeños.
- Different Cheeses: Try using Pepper Jack, Colby, or smoked Gouda.
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based chorizo or omit the meat altogether.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cheese-based dips can become grainy when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this queso dip ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dip, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of chorizo?
Ground sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken work as great alternatives.
How do I keep the queso dip smooth and creamy?
Stir frequently and add milk gradually to keep it from thickening too much.
Can I make this queso dip in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the chorizo first, then add everything to a slow cooker and heat on low.
What are the best dippers for this queso dip?
Tortilla chips, pretzels, crackers, or fresh veggies like bell peppers and celery.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s best to use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother texture.
How can I make this dip keto-friendly?
Serve with low-carb chips or fresh vegetables and use a lower-carb tomato option.
Can I add beer for extra flavor?
Yes! A splash of beer can enhance the flavor and make the dip even more delicious.
What’s the best way to keep queso warm for a party?
A slow cooker on the warm setting is ideal for keeping it smooth and creamy.
How do I prevent the cheese from becoming grainy?
Use low heat and stir frequently to keep the texture smooth.
Conclusion
Creamy chorizo queso dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, packed with rich cheese, savory chorizo, and a hint of spice. Whether you serve it at a party, game night, or casual gathering, this dip is sure to impress. Try different variations to make it your own and enjoy!
PrintCreamy Chorizo Queso Dip
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Mexican-Inspired
Description
This Creamy Chorizo Queso Dip is the ultimate party appetizer! Spicy chorizo, melted cheese, and a touch of heat come together in this rich and creamy dip. Serve it with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing snack!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spicy chorizo (or mild, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon butter (if needed)
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (for extra creaminess)
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Cook the Chorizo:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned and fully cooked (5-6 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add diced onion and jalapeño to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, Rotel, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in evaporated milk.
- Add Velveeta cubes, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Gradually mix in pepper jack and cheddar cheese until fully incorporated.
- Finish & Serve:
- Stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce (if using), and fresh cilantro.
- Transfer to a serving dish or a slow cooker set to “warm.”
- Garnish with sliced jalapeños and chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips!
Notes
- Want a smoky flavor? Use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of Rotel.
- Make it meatless? Swap chorizo for black beans or sautéed mushrooms.
- Keep it warm? Serve in a small slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.
- Want it thinner? Stir in a little more evaporated milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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