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Spicy Cowboy Queso

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • 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

Description

This Spicy Cowboy Queso is a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dip loaded with spicy chorizo, fire-roasted tomatoes, and jalapeños. Perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve it with tortilla chips and watch it disappear!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz spicy chorizo (or ground sausage)
  • 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 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

 

 


Instructions

  • Cook the Chorizo:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned and fully cooked (about 5 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 fresh cilantro, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce (if using).
    • Transfer to a serving dish or a small slow cooker on warm.
    • Garnish with sliced jalapeños and chopped green onions.
  • Enjoy!
    • Serve warm with tortilla chips and dig in!

Notes

  • Want it smokier? Use fire-roasted tomatoes and smoked gouda instead of cheddar.
  • 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.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg