Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe
Introduction
This Cottage Cheese Queso is a creamy, quick, and healthier alternative to traditional queso dips. It combines smooth cottage cheese with melted cheddar and taco seasoning for a flavorful snack perfect for dipping.
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 (a single serve blender works great) and blend until smooth.
- Step 2: Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a microwave-safe bowl. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and taco seasoning evenly on top.
- Step 3: Microwave the mixture for 1 minute.
- Step 4: Stir well, then return the bowl to the microwave and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Stir again and repeat cooking for 30-second intervals, stirring each time until the queso is smooth and melted. This should take about 2 minutes total but may vary with your microwave.
- Step 5: Optionally garnish with pico de gallo, salsa, or cilantro. Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Tips & Variations
- Use low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese depending on your preference for creaminess.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of chili powder or a few drops of hot sauce before microwaving.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a bit of a kick.
- If you don’t have a microwave, melt the cheese with the blended cottage cheese in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
Storage
Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to restore smoothness. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much during storage.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheese instead of shredded cheddar?
Shredded cheddar melts more evenly and quickly, but you can use chopped cheese slices if needed. Just make sure to break them into small pieces for smooth melting.
Is this queso gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the taco seasoning to ensure it contains no gluten additives.
PrintCottage Cheese Queso Recipe
This Cottage Cheese Queso is a quick and healthy twist on traditional queso dip, blending creamy cottage cheese with sharp cheddar and a hint of taco seasoning for a smooth, flavorful dip. Perfect for a snack or appetizer, it comes together effortlessly using your blender and microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup of queso, serves 2-3 as a dip 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
Instructions
- Blend Cottage Cheese: Add the cottage cheese to a blender, preferably a single-serve blender, and blend until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Prepare for Microwaving: Transfer the blended cottage cheese into a microwave-safe bowl. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and taco seasoning over the top.
- Initial Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat for 1 minute to start melting the cheese and combine the flavors.
- Stir and Continue Cooking: Stir the mixture well to ensure even melting. Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Stir again thoroughly. Repeat this step (30 seconds cooking, then stirring) until the queso is smooth and the cheddar is fully melted, typically about 2 minutes total depending on your microwave’s power.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally top your queso with pico de gallo, salsa, or fresh cilantro for added freshness and flavor. Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- Use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese depending on your preference for creaminess and calorie content.
- Taco seasoning can be store-bought or homemade for a fresher taste.
- Microwave times vary by appliance; watch closely to avoid overheating or curdling.
- For a thinner queso, stir in a splash of milk or water before microwaving.
- This recipe makes a small batch ideal for 2-3 people.
Keywords: cottage cheese queso, healthy queso dip, quick appetizer, microwave queso, cheesy dip, taco seasoning dip
