Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe
Introduction
If you love a creamy, cheesy dip but want something quick and easy, this Cottage Cheese Queso is perfect. It combines the smoothness of blended cottage cheese with melted cheddar and taco seasoning for a flavorful snack that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the cottage cheese to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Step 2: Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a microwave-safe bowl. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and taco seasoning.
- Step 3: Microwave the mixture for 1 minute.
- Step 4: Stir well, then microwave for another 30 seconds and stir again.
- Step 5: Repeat microwaving for 30 seconds followed by stirring until the queso is completely smooth and melted. This usually takes about 2 minutes total but may vary depending on your microwave.
- Step 6: Optionally, garnish with pico de gallo, salsa, or cilantro. Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Tips & Variations
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños before microwaving.
- Swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- If you don’t have a blender, you can try blending the cottage cheese with an immersion blender or whisk vigorously.
Storage
Store any leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds to maintain smoothness and avoid overheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheese instead of shredded cheddar?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, but shredded cheddar helps ensure even melting and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-fat diet?
Using low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese and reduced-fat cheddar can make this recipe lighter while still creamy and tasty.
PrintCottage Cheese Queso Recipe
This Cottage Cheese Queso is a quick and creamy cheese dip made by blending cottage cheese with cheddar and taco seasoning, then melting it in the microwave until smooth. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional queso dips and perfect for serving with tortilla chips for an easy snack or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 as a dip 1x
- Category: Dip
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients
Cheese Base
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
Instructions
- Blend Cottage Cheese: Add 1 cup of cottage cheese to a blender (a single-serve blender works best) and blend until it becomes smooth and creamy without any lumps.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a microwave-safe bowl. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then add 1/2 teaspoon of taco seasoning.
- Initial Microwave Heating: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 1 minute to start melting the cheeses together.
- Stir and Continue Heating: Stir the mixture well to combine. Return to the microwave and cook for another 30 seconds, then stir again. Repeat this 30-second heating and stirring cycle until the queso is fully melted and smooth, which usually takes about 2 minutes total but may vary depending on microwave power.
- Optional Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh pico de gallo, salsa, or chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- Use a microwave-safe bowl to avoid any damage during heating.
- Blending the cottage cheese until smooth is key to achieving a creamy queso texture.
- The cooking time may vary depending on your microwave wattage; adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
- Feel free to customize with additional spices like cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Keywords: Cottage Cheese Queso, Cheese Dip, Microwave Queso, Healthy Cheese Dip, Easy Queso Recipe, Snack, Appetizer
