Smoked Queso Dip

Why Make This Recipe

Smoked Queso Dip is perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in. The smoky flavor adds a twist to the classic cheese dip. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor from the spices and tomatoes. Everyone loves dipping warm tortilla chips into this delicious treat.

How to Make Smoked Queso Dip

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Smoked paprika to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a cast-iron skillet or a disposable aluminum pan.
4. Place the skillet in the smoker and smoke for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the smoker, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm with tortilla chips.

How to Serve Smoked Queso Dip

Serve Smoked Queso Dip warm with a side of tortilla chips. You can also offer fresh vegetables like carrots and celery for dipping. This dip is great for gatherings or as an appetizer. Pair it with drinks for a fun snack!

How to Store Smoked Queso Dip

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or warm it up on the stove until it becomes creamy again.

Tips to Make Smoked Queso Dip

• For extra smokiness, try adding some smoked sausage or bacon bits to the mix.
• If you want a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Make sure to stir the dip occasionally while smoking to ensure it melts evenly.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by using different cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or adding black beans for a heartier dip.

FAQs

Can I make Smoked Queso Dip in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the dip in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes instead of using a smoker.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to chop them finely. You may want to add a little more seasoning.

Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, but always check your labels to be sure!

Smoked Queso Dip

Smoked Queso Dip is a creamy, cheesy delight with a smoky flavor, perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve warm with tortilla chips for a delicious treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the dip

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• to taste smoked paprika
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• to garnish fresh cilantro

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a cast-iron skillet or a disposable aluminum pan.

Cooking

1. Place the skillet in the smoker and smoke for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the smoker, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm with tortilla chips.

Notes

For extra smokiness, add smoked sausage or bacon bits. For heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce. Stir the dip occasionally while smoking for even melting. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.