Smoked Queso Dip: Three Easy Variations Recipe
This Smoked Queso Dip recipe offers three easy variations combining a smoky, creamy, and spicy blend of cheeses, meats, and salsas. Perfectly melted and infused with rich smoke flavor, this dip is an irresistible party favorite served warm with chips or veggies.
- Author: Yana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Cheeses
- 8 oz White American Cheese
- 4 oz Pepper Jack Cheese
- 4 oz Habanero Cheese
- 8 oz Velveeta Cheese
- 4 oz White American Cheese
- 4 oz Pepper Jack Cheese
- 10 oz Velveeta Cheese
Meats
- 4 oz Chorizo Crumbles
- 6 oz Sausage Crumbles (tube style breakfast sausage)
- 4 oz Chorizo Crumbles
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp Garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk (or heavy cream)
- 5 oz Cream of Mushroom Soup (1/2 a can if making a single batch)
- 1/2 cup Pace Picante Medium Salsa
- 3 tbsp Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilis
- 2 tbsp Jalapeno (minced or finely diced)
- 2 tbsp White Onion (minced or finely diced)
- Preheat and Prepare Smoker: Preheat your smoker or grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F. Set the smoke level to high to maximize smoky flavor in the queso dip.
- Cube the Cheeses: Cut all cheeses into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they melt evenly. Letting them come to room temperature beforehand will improve the melting process.
- Assemble Ingredients: In a Dutch oven or disposable foil pan, layer the cubed cheeses along with the meat crumbles, salsas, minced garlic, jalapeno, and onion as listed in your chosen variation.
- Smoke the Dip: Place the pan on the smoker or the side of the grill. Cook for 1 to 2 hours, stirring every 20 minutes to evenly incorporate all ingredients and ensure smooth melting.
- Adjust Consistency: If the queso dip is thicker than desired, stir in sour cream, milk, or heavy cream to achieve a creamy, smooth texture.
- Serve: Serve warm with favorite dippers such as tortilla chips, Fritos, or fresh vegetables for a perfect party appetizer.
Notes
- Bringing cheeses to room temperature before cooking helps them melt more evenly and smoothly.
- Stirring every 20 minutes prevents burning and ensures uniform blending of flavors.
- You can customize the heat level by choosing milder or spicier cheeses and adjusting the amount of jalapenos used.
- If you don’t have a smoker, using the grill with wood chips for smoke or finishing in a low oven can work as alternatives.
- Add sour cream or milk gradually to avoid making the dip too runny; adjust to desired creaminess.
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