Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this mouthwatering Smoked Queso recipe! With a perfect blend of flavors and just the right amount of kick, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
You’ll love this Smoked Queso recipe for its bold and savory flavors, quick prep time, and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or simply craving a tasty snack, this dish is a must-try.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory element to the queso.
- Velveeta cheese: Provides a creamy and smooth texture.
- Colby Jack cheese: Adds a sharp and tangy flavor.
- Pico de Gallo: Adds freshness and a hint of spice.
- Jalapeños: Adds a touch of heat to the dish.
- Taco seasoning: Infuses the queso with delicious Mexican-inspired flavors.
- Liquid smoke: Adds a smoky and rich depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- In a slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef, Velveeta cheese, Colby Jack cheese, Pico de Gallo, jalapeños, taco seasoning, and liquid smoke.
- Cook on low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are melted and the ingredients are well combined.
- Serve the smoked queso warm with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers.
Helpful Tips:
- For a spicier queso, add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Customize the recipe by adding cooked chorizo or shredded chicken.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality cheeses for the most flavorful queso.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
- Adjust the amount of liquid smoke to suit your preference.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delicious Smoked Queso with a side of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for a complete and satisfying snack. Pair it with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita for the ultimate indulgence.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, transfer the queso to a container with a lid and refrigerate. To reheat, place the queso in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the queso ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
- Can I freeze the smoked queso? While technically possible, the texture may change when frozen and thawed.
- Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to create a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion:
Now that you have the recipe for the Best Smoked Queso, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Print
Best Smoked Queso Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Best Smoked Queso Recipe. A delicious blend of ground beef, Velveeta and Colby Jack cheese, Pico de Gallo, jalapeños, and taco seasoning, all with a hint of smoky flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ pound ground beef
- 32 ounce box Velveeta cheese cubed
- 1½ cups Colby Jack cheese shredded or cubed
- 1½ cups Pico de Gallo
- 3–4 tbsp jalapeños sliced (about 2 jalapenos)
- 1½ tbsp taco seasoning
- ¾ tsp liquid smoke
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Melt Cheeses: In a slow cooker, combine Velveeta, Colby Jack, Pico de Gallo, jalapeños, taco seasoning, and liquid smoke. Cook on low until cheeses are melted.
- Serve: Stir well and serve hot with tortilla chips or veggies.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less jalapeños.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk while melting the cheeses.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
