Queso lovers, gather around! If you're someone who enjoys experimenting with bold, smoky flavors, you're in for a treat. Forget the ordinary cheese dipāit's time to elevate your appetizer game with smoked queso. This delicious twist on a party favorite brings together rich, gooey cheese and a bold kick of smoky goodness thatāll have everyone coming back for more. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or a game day get-together, this smoked queso recipe will truly steal the show.
Want to know how to make this star-studded cheese dip? Stick around as we take a deep dive into the history of smoked queso, break down the ingredients you need, and walk you through a foolproof step-by-step guide. Let's get cooking! š„š§
Before smoked queso became an internet sensation (hello, TikTok and Instagram foodies!), queso itself had a long-standing place in Tex-Mex cuisine. The word āquesoā means ācheeseā in Spanish, but it's commonly used to refer to a creamy, melted cheese dip, often infused with Tex-Mex spices like chili or jalapeƱo.
While traditional queso is typically prepared on the stovetop or in the microwave, smoked queso takes things up a notch by adding a rich, smoky flavor that can only come from cooking it over fire. Often credited to BBQ pitmasters in Texas, this twist on classic queso has become a must-make dish for food lovers everywhere. Why? Because who can resist cheese, fire, and a little spice? Honestly, nobody. š
To make the perfect smoked queso, youāll need the following ingredients (serves about 6-8):
Pro tip š: Don't skip the Velveetaāits creamy texture ensures everything blends together perfectly!
Pro tip š: Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
1. Can I use a regular grill instead of a smoker?
Absolutely! Simply set up your grill for indirect heating (with coals or burners on one side only), add wood chips for smoke, and follow the same steps as above.
2. What wood chips work best for smoked queso?
Hickory and mesquite are popular choices for their bold flavors. If you'd prefer a milder smoke, try applewood or cherrywood.
3. Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes! Skip the meat and load up on diced veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also add black beans or pinto beans for extra protein.
4. How spicy is this recipe?
It depends on the jalapeƱos and taco seasoning! For a milder dip, remove seeds from the jalapeƱos or swap them for diced green bell peppers.
5. What drinks pair well with smoked queso?
Smoked queso pairs perfectly with an ice-cold beer, an iced margarita, or even a refreshing glass of agua fresca. š„
Smoked queso isnāt just a recipeāitās a canvas for all kinds of delicious experiments. Add your favorite ingredients, tweak the spices, or swap out cheeses to make it your own. Trust us, itās pretty hard to go wrong when cheese and smoky flavor are involved.
If you give this recipe a try, weād love to see your creations! šø Snap a pic, tag us on Instagram with #SmokedQuesoMagic, and share your tips and tricks with our foodie community.
Now, fire up the grill and amaze your guests with some smoked queso goodness. Youāve got this!
Happy cooking,
Ivana from So Many Recipes š
Preheat your smoker or grill to 250Ā°F (medium heat) and add wood chips for smoke.
Place your Velveeta, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Rotel, ground beef or sausage, onions, jalapeƱos, and optional add-ons in a cast iron skillet or aluminum pan.
Place your pan on the smoker or grill, close the lid, and cook for about 1 hour, stirring every 15ā20 minutes to ensure even melting.
Once the cheese is perfectly melted and combined, carefully remove the pan from the smoker. Stir well and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve your smoked queso with tortilla chips, warm bread, or veggie sticks. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!