Name: Cowboy Queso Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1/2 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb chorizo sausage (casing removed); 16 oz Velveeta, cubed; 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese; 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (with liquid); 1/4 cup milk or light beer; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional); Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Tortilla chips, for serving

Cowboy Queso Dip is the ultimate party starter. This creamy, spicy, meaty cheese dip is packed with bold Southwestern flavors and made for scooping with tortilla chips. Whether you’re tailgating, hosting a game night, or just indulging in a late-night craving, this dip brings serious flavor with minimal effort.

It combines melty Velveeta, spicy pepper jack cheese, fire-roasted tomatoes, seasoned ground beef, and the smoky kick of chorizo sausage. With just a bit of beer or milk to thin it out, you get a silky smooth queso that’s rich, hearty, and loaded with character.

What Kind of Cheese Works Best for Cowboy Queso Dip?

Velveeta is essential for that signature smooth texture, while pepper jack adds spice and real cheese flavor. You can also blend in a bit of cream cheese for extra richness, or swap in Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder finish.

Ingredients for the Cowboy Queso Dip

1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb chorizo sausage (casing removed)
16 oz Velveeta, cubed
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained
1/4 cup milk or light beer (more as needed)
1/4 cup diced red onion
1 small jalapeño, minced (optional for heat)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Tortilla chips, for serving

How To Make the Cowboy Queso Dip

Step 1: Cook the Meats

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chorizo until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese

In a large saucepan or slow cooker, add the Velveeta, pepper jack, and milk (or beer). Stir frequently over medium heat until the cheese is melted and smooth.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Stir in the cooked meats, Rotel (with liquid), diced onion, and jalapeño. Let it cook together until fully blended and heated through.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh cilantro. Serve warm with tortilla chips and watch it disappear!

Serving and Storing Cowboy Queso Dip

Serve your Cowboy Queso Dip warm and melty straight from a slow cooker or warmed dish. It pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, pretzels, or even veggie sticks for dipping. If you’re entertaining, keep it warm on low in a crockpot.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or beer if it gets too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cowboy Queso Dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and cheese base ahead, then heat and combine everything when ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works great in this recipe.

What can I substitute for Rotel?

Use a mix of canned diced tomatoes and green chilies. Just be sure not to drain the liquid.

Is this dip spicy?

It has a mild-to-medium kick. Omit the jalapeño for a milder version or add hot sauce for more heat.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low until melted and heated through.

Want More Dip Ideas with a Bold Twist?

If you love this Cowboy Queso Dip, you’ll want to try these other creamy, crowd-pleasing dips:

Authentic 7-Layer Mexican Dip with a fresh, zesty kick.
Candied Jalapeños to bring extra heat and sweet to your table.
Buffalo Chicken Calzone as a spicy, cheesy appetizer twist.
Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole for a full-on fiesta side dish.
Sausage Rolls Appetizer for savory bites with major crunch.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can find it anytime: Follow me on Pinterest

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go spicy or keep it classic? Did it vanish in five minutes like it always does at my house?

I love hearing your creative twists. Share your tips and let’s keep the queso love going!

Cowboy Queso Dip

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Cowboy Queso Dip is a bold, meaty, and spicy cheese dip perfect for any gathering. It’s loaded with ground beef, chorizo, Velveeta, pepper jack, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Serve it warm with chips for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.