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Spicy Cowboy Queso

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Dip
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Description

This Spicy Cowboy Queso is a bold, cheesy dip packed with spicy chorizo, fresh jalapeños, fire-roasted tomatoes, and melty cheese. Perfect for dipping tortilla chips, drizzling over nachos, or serving with soft pretzels!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb (16 oz) Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 8 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 lb spicy chorizo, crumbled
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup whole milk (or more for desired consistency)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  • Cook the chorizo: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.
  • Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  • Melt the cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add the Velveeta and pepper jack cheese, stirring occasionally until melted.
  • Add the rest: Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, milk, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, and garlic powder. Keep stirring until smooth and fully combined.
  • Finish & serve: Mix in the fresh cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with tortilla chips!

Notes

  • Make it smokier: Add a few dashes of chipotle hot sauce or diced chipotle peppers in adobo.
  • Want it thinner? Add a splash more milk until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Milder version: Use mild chorizo and swap the pepper jack for Monterey Jack.
  • Keep it warm: Serve in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting for parties.
  • Details

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg