Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cottage Cheese Queso, a healthy twist on a classic Mexican dip. This delightful blend of whipped cottage cheese, sharp cheddar, and zesty taco seasoning offers a rich and satisfying flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy movie night, this easy-to-make queso dip brings a protein-packed, flavorful touch to your table. Ready in just minutes, it’s a versatile addition that pairs wonderfully with chips, tacos, or stuffed peppers.
- Quick to prepare with only four simple ingredients, saving your time in the kitchen.
- High in protein and lower in fat compared to traditional queso, making it a nutritious choice.
- Versatile to serve as a dip, topping, or filling, fitting various meals and snacks.
Ingredients
- Cottage Cheese (16 ounces): Provides a creamy base packed with protein and a mild tangy flavor to offer a healthy alternative to cream cheese.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Adds a rich, sharp taste and melts smoothly to give the queso its classic cheesy texture.
- Taco Seasoning (1 tablespoon): Brings bold, zesty spices that enhance flavor with a perfect Mexican-inspired kick.
- Water (½ cup): Used to adjust the consistency, creating a smooth and creamy dip that’s easy to spread or scoop.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (10 ounces, drained): Adds a subtle heat and vibrant color, balancing creaminess with a fresh, mildly spicy punch.
Instructions
- Whip Cottage Cheese Until Creamy
Place the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender and whip until it reaches a smooth, creamy texture. This step ensures the base is velvety and free of lumps, making it perfect for mixing.
- Add Cheddar Cheese, Taco Seasoning, and Water
Incorporate the shredded cheddar, taco seasoning, and water into the whipped cottage cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined, achieving the ideal creamy consistency for dipping or topping.
- Fold in Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and green chiles gently to distribute their fresh and slightly spicy flavor throughout the queso without blending, maintaining texture and vibrancy.
- Warm the Dip Before Serving
For the best flavor and texture, microwave the queso for one minute prior to serving. This warms the dip slightly, enhancing the cheese melt and aroma, making it irresistible.
- This queso can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
- For a thicker dip, reduce the water slightly or add more cheddar cheese.
- Use fresh or canned diced green chiles to control the heat level to your liking.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness.
Serving Suggestions
This Cottage Cheese Queso pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips, fresh vegetable sticks, or as a flavorful topping for tacos, nachos, or stuffed bell peppers for an extra protein boost.
- For a creamier texture, blend the cottage cheese longer until completely smooth before adding other ingredients.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika complements the taco seasoning beautifully.
- If you prefer a chunkier dip, pulse the blender less or stir in half the cheese and tomatoes manually.
FAQs
- Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this queso?
Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well and reduces overall fat while maintaining creaminess.
- Is this queso suitable for freezing?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may separate upon thawing and heating.
- Can I substitute cheddar cheese?
Absolutely, pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheeses add a nice twist with mild heat or creaminess.
- How spicy is this dip?
The heat is mild from the taco seasoning and green chiles, but it can be adjusted by adding more or less seasoning or chiles.
- What can I serve this dip with besides chips?
It’s delicious with fresh veggies, pretzels, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate; bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
Cottage Cheese Queso
Equipment
- 1 food processor or blender
- 1 microwave optional for warming dip
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles drained
Instructions
- Place cottage cheese into a food processor or blender and whip until creamy.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, and water then blend until smooth.
- Stir in the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles.
- Microwave the mixture for 1 minute if serving warm.
Notes
- Use low-fat cottage cheese to reduce calories.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
- Try adding jalapeños for extra heat.
- Best served fresh or warmed for optimal flavor.
