Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smoked queso dip brings bold flavors and creamy textures all in one dish. The combination of melted Velveeta, savory ground beef, and melted Colby Jack creates a deliciously gooey dip that everyone will love. The smoky flavor from the liquid smoke and the heat from the jalapeños add depth and spice, making this dip extra special. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a cheesy snack, this dip is perfect for any occasion.

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 jalapeños)
  • 1½ tbsp taco seasoning
  • ¾ tsp liquid smoke
  • Optional garnishes: Minced cilantro, additional jalapeños

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
  2. Add seasonings: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked ground beef and mix in. Add a little water if necessary to help coat the meat evenly with the seasoning.
  3. Melt the cheeses: In a separate large saucepan or pot, melt the Velveeta cheese and Colby Jack cheese over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Combine the ingredients: Once the cheese is fully melted and smooth, add the cooked ground beef to the cheese mixture. Stir in the Pico de Gallo, jalapeños, and liquid smoke. Continue stirring until everything is well combined and the dip is hot.
  5. Serve: Pour the queso dip into a serving dish and garnish with minced cilantro and extra jalapeños, if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or your favorite dipping snacks.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8-10
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy twist: Add more jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip the ground beef and use black beans or grilled vegetables for a veggie-friendly version.
  • Cheese variety: You can substitute Colby Jack with cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, microwave the dip in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn. Alternatively, heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, but Velveeta works best for the smooth, creamy texture.

2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze smoked queso dip?

It’s not recommended to freeze queso dip because the cheese can separate and become grainy when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

4. What can I use instead of liquid smoke?

If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can skip it, or add a bit of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce for a smoky flavor.

5. Can I make this dip without meat?

Yes, you can omit the ground beef and make a vegetarian version with beans, mushrooms, or just extra cheese and vegetables.

6. How do I keep the dip warm during a party?

If you’re serving the dip at a party, keep it warm in a slow cooker or a chafing dish to maintain the right temperature for dipping.

7. Can I make this dip spicier?

Yes, you can increase the amount of jalapeños, add some diced chili peppers, or include a little hot sauce for an extra kick.

8. Can I make this dip in the oven?

Yes, you can transfer the dip to a baking dish and bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

9. What should I serve with smoked queso dip?

Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for dipping.

10. Can I use store-bought pico de gallo?

Yes, you can use store-bought pico de gallo, but fresh pico de gallo made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice will give the dip a fresher flavor.

Conclusion

Smoked queso dip is the ultimate comfort food, combining gooey cheese, flavorful ground beef, and a smoky kick for a dip that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a game day, or just craving something cheesy, this dip will be a hit every time. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any snack table!

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Smoked Queso Dip

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Smoked Queso Dip combines the rich flavors of Velveeta, Colby Jack cheese, and ground beef with a smoky kick from liquid smoke and jalapeños, creating a creamy and flavorful dip perfect for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

pound ground beef

32 ounce box Velveeta cheese, cubed

1½ cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded or cubed

1½ cups Pico de Gallo

34 tbsp jalapeños, sliced (about 2 jalapeños)

1½ tbsp taco seasoning

¾ tsp liquid smoke

Optional garnishes: Minced cilantro, additional jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
  2. Add seasonings: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked beef, mixing in. Add a little water to help coat the meat evenly with the seasoning.
  3. Melt the cheeses: In a large saucepan or pot, melt the Velveeta and Colby Jack cheeses over low heat, stirring often to prevent burning.
  4. Combine the ingredients: Once the cheese is fully melted, add the cooked ground beef to the cheese mixture. Stir in Pico de Gallo, jalapeños, and liquid smoke. Stir until well combined and the dip is hot.
  5. Serve: Pour the queso dip into a serving dish and garnish with minced cilantro and additional jalapeños. Serve hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or your favorite dipping snacks.

Notes

For a spicier dip, add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

For a vegetarian option, use black beans or grilled vegetables instead of ground beef.

Try using a blend of cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.

  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

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