Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re following the viral cottage cheese trend, this Cottage Cheese Queso is about to be your new favorite dip. It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with protein, and incredibly simple to make. The best part? It blends in under 10 minutes and has all the flavor of traditional queso without the heavy guilt. Perfect as a party dip, taco topper, or snack, this recipe is blowing up on Reels for a reason—it’s delicious, nutritious, and endlessly versatile.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for heat
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes
Directions
- Add cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack (if using), green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, scrape down the sides and blend again to fully incorporate the cheese.
- Pour into a small saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring constantly until the queso is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level. Add hot sauce or jalapeños if desired.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, veggies, or drizzle over tacos and nachos.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add more green chilies, jalapeños, or hot sauce to kick up the heat.
- Vegan Alternative: Use dairy-free cottage cheese and vegan shredded cheese options.
- Extra Creamy: Add a splash of milk or a spoonful of sour cream to make it even smoother.
- Loaded Queso: Stir in cooked ground beef or chorizo for a heartier dip.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the queso in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until warmed through. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
FAQs
Can I make this queso ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely on the stove or microwave.
Is cottage cheese a good cheese for queso?
Absolutely. It blends smoothly and adds a rich, creamy texture with a protein boost.
Can I freeze cottage cheese queso?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture after thawing.
What kind of cottage cheese should I use?
Use full-fat for the creamiest texture, but low-fat versions also work well.
Can I add meat to this dip?
Yes, mix in cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a more filling option.
How do I make it less thick?
Simply add a little milk or water while heating to reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Queso is the ultimate viral dip—healthy, high-protein, and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re into the cottage cheese trend or just want a lighter queso alternative, this recipe delivers. Quick to prep, easy to customize, and perfect for parties or snack time, it’s no wonder this dish is trending on Reels. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!
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