Cottage Cheese Queso

This high-protein cottage cheese queso is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for game day or any snack attack.

Ditch the processed cheese!

We’ve all seen those viral TikTok food trends. Sometimes they’re amazing, sometimes…not so much. But this cottage cheese queso dip? It’s the real deal.

It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, it’s got just the right amount of kick, and it’s actually good for you. Trust me, this one is a total game-changer.

Supplies Needed for your cottage cheese queso recipe:

Blender or food processor
Microwaveable bowl

Ingredients & Why They Work:

• Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: Yes, full-fat! It’s the key to that luxuriously creamy texture we’re going for. Don’t worry, we’re keeping things balanced with plenty of protein to fuel your day.
• Mexican Blend Cheese, shredded: This pre-shredded cheese is a shortcut to melty, cheesy goodness. It brings a blend of classic Mexican cheeses for a familiar, crowd-pleasing flavor.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: We’re adding a little kick with pepper jack! It adds a subtle spice and a touch more creaminess to the dip.
• Taco Seasoning: The heart and soul of this queso! It adds that signature savory, slightly spicy flavor we all love. Try our favorite homemade taco seasoning mix – that also happens to be gluten-free!
• Diced Green Chiles: For an extra layer of flavor and a hint of heat. Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
• Pickled Jalapeños: These add a tangy, vinegary kick that balances the richness of the cheese.
• GARNISH: Pico de Gallo

Directions for cottage cheese queso:

1. Blend It Up: Toss the cottage cheese, taco seasoning, green chilies, and jalapeños into your blender or food processor and blend until it’s super smooth and creamy. No lumps allowed!

2. Melt & Mix: Pour the smooth cottage cheese mixture and shredded cheeses into a microwave safe bowl.

3. Heat in the microwave 1 minute at a time until cheese is melted. This could take 3-4 minutes.

4. Pour that cheesy goodness into a serving bowl top it with whatever your heart desires: pico de gallo, green onions, a little extra shredded cheese…go wild!

Grab your favorite tortilla chips (or veggies if you’re feeling virtuous) and enjoy!

Bonus Tip: This queso is also a great way to sneak some extra protein and veggies into your kids’ meals. Just serve it with a variety of colorful veggies and watch them disappear!

“Stretch it” Tip:

Leftover queso? No problem! Use it to top baked potatoes, drizzle it over burrito bowls, or even stir it into scrambled eggs for a cheesy breakfast treat.

Tips and Tricks:

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chiles and jalapeños to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste.

Cheese Swaps: Don’t have the exact cheeses on hand? No worries! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, cheddar cheese or even a little bit of cheddar will work in a pinch.

Make-Ahead Magic: This dip is a great make-ahead option. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.

Storage and Reheating your cottage cheese queso:

Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave in short bursts (about 15-20 seconds) until heated through.

FAQs

• Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
  You can, but full-fat cottage cheese will give you the creamiest, most decadent texture.
• Can I make this dip spicier?
  Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• I don’t have a blender or food processor, what can I do?
  If you don’t have a blender or food processor, you can try mashing the cottage cheese with a fork until it’s as smooth as possible.
• Can I add other ingredients to the dip?
  Of course! Get creative! Try adding cooked ground beef, black beans, corn, or any of your favorite taco toppings.
• Is this dip gluten-free?
  Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla chips or veggies for dipping.
• Ready to give this high-protein cottage cheese queso a try?
  Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share your creations on social media! Let me know in the comments how you like it.

Okay, now that you’ve whipped up this delicious and healthy queso, let’s talk about all the ways you can enjoy it.

• Chip & Dip Classic: Grab your favorite tortilla chips and get dipping! This queso is the perfect game-day snack or anytime treat. Looking for an even healthier option? Try dipping with fresh veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or celery sticks.
• Burrito Bowl Bliss: Drizzle this cheesy goodness over your favorite burrito bowl for an extra boost of flavor and protein.
• Baked Potato Power-Up: Top a baked potato with a generous scoop of this queso and all your favorite fixings for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
• Scrambled Egg Surprise: Stir a spoonful or two into your scrambled eggs for a cheesy, flavorful twist on breakfast.
• Taco Tuesday Upgrade: Of course, this queso is the perfect companion for your favorite tacos! It adds a creamy, cheesy element that takes taco night to the next level.

No matter how you enjoy it, this high-protein cottage cheese queso is sure to become a new family favorite. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and plenty of protein, it’s the perfect healthy snack or meal addition. So, grab a cup of cottage cheese from the grocery store and get dipping!