Touchdown Spicy Beef Queso

The first time I made this queso for a Super Bowl party, my friend Sarah literally stood by the slow cooker with a chip in hand for three hours straight. She kept whispering Im not even that hungry between bites while the rest of us tried to casually inch closer to the bowl. Now its the most requested dish at every gathering, and Ive learned to make double batches just to ensure there is actually some left for the people who arent hovering over the stove.

Last winter during a particularly intense playoff game, my brother in law showed up with store bought queso and we did a blind taste test. The difference was embarrassingly obvious. His version sat there congealing while mine disappeared within the first quarter, and now he texts me every Sunday asking if Im making the good stuff.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef: I always go for 85/15 fat content because the extra fat keeps everything velvety instead of grainy
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: The sweetness balances all that spice, so dont skip it even if you think you dont like onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic makes such a difference here, please dont use the jarred stuff
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped: Leave some seeds if you like it to really sneak up on you
• 1 tsp chili powder: This gives that classic Tex-Mex flavor foundation, not just heat
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin: Earthy and essential, honestly the secret ingredient everyone forgets until they taste it missing
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds this subtle smokiness that makes people think you cooked it over a fire
• 1/2 tsp salt: Adjust at the end since the processed cheese brings its own saltiness
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground makes a huge difference
• 16 oz processed cheese, cubed: I know, I know, but this is what makes it actually dip instead of a separated cheese puddle
• 1 cup whole milk: The higher fat content keeps everything silky smooth
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This is where all the real cheese flavor comes from
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies: Do not drain this, that liquid is liquid gold for consistency
• 1/4 cup sour cream: Stir this in at the very end for that restaurant style tang
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Optional but honestly recommended if your crowd can handle it
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens everything up and makes it look pretty
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced: That little pop of onion flavor on top is perfect
• Tortilla chips: Get the sturdy ones, restaurant style, because wimpy chips will snap and ruin lives

Instructions

Brown the beef beautifully:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until perfectly browned, breaking it up into small crumbles. This takes about 5 minutes, and please drain the excess fat unless you want an oil slick on top.

Sauté the aromatics:

Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeño right into the beef. Sauté everything together until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes, and your kitchen should start smelling like a really good Tex-Mex restaurant.

Add the spice blend:

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for just 1 minute until the spices become incredibly fragrant, then remove from heat and set aside.

Melt the cheese base:

In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the processed cheese, milk, and cheddar cheese. Stir frequently until everything melts into smooth, dreamy perfection.

Add the tomatoes and heat:

Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, juices and all, along with the cayenne if you are feeling brave. Stir well until incorporated.

Combine everything:

Fold the cooked beef mixture into the cheese sauce. Simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and thickened slightly.

Finish with sour cream:

Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream until well blended. Do not let it come to a boil after adding this or it might separate.

Serve and garnish:

Transfer to a serving bowl or keep it warm in a slow cooker. Top with cilantro and green onions, then stand back as people literally hover over it.

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My daughter asked me to make this for her birthday party instead of cake, and I have never felt more validated as a parent. Watching twelve year olds gather around a slow cooker with that look of pure cheesy joy in their eyes was honestly a core memory.

Make It Your Own

I have made this with ground turkey when my beef eating friends were not around, and honestly it is still fantastic. The key is adding a little extra seasoning since turkey is so mild. You can also throw in some black beans or corn if you want to stretch it further.

Serving Suggestions

Beyond tortilla chips, this is incredible over baked potatoes or as a topping for nachos that actually get eaten. My dad started putting it on his burgers and now he will not eat them any other way. Pretzels work surprisingly well too.

Storage And Reheating

This keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days, though good luck having it last that long. Reheat it slowly in the microwave with splashes of milk, stirring every 30 seconds. It will look separated at first but keep stirring and it will come back together beautifully.

• Freezing is not recommended because the texture changes and becomes grainy
• If you are taking this to a party, transport it cold and reheat there
• Always taste after reheating because spices mellow in the fridge

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There is something about watching people gather around a warm dip bowl that just makes everything feel right with the world. Hope this brings your people together the way it has mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of beef is best for this dip?

Use lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor, and to reduce excess fat during cooking.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, omit jalapeño and cayenne pepper for a milder version, or add extra spices to increase heat.

→ What cheeses create the smoothest texture?

Processed cheese combined with sharp cheddar melts evenly, creating a creamy, smooth dip base.

→ How can I keep the dip warm when serving?

Use a slow cooker or insulated serving dish to maintain warmth throughout your event.

→ Are there alternatives to beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef to suit dietary preferences while preserving flavor.

→ What are good serving options besides tortilla chips?

Try sliced veggies, pretzels, or use it as a topping for nachos to add more variety.