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A tempting bowl of Cowboy Queso is displayed as the featured image for this recipe.

Best Ever Cowboy Queso

This Cowboy Queso recipe delivers a melty, smoky, and flavorful cheese dip perfect for any gathering. Combining Velveeta with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, along with smoked sausage, roasted peppers, and a blend of spices, this queso achieves a legendary taste and texture.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 pound smoked sausage like Andouille
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 poblano pepper
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, minced seeds removed for less heat
  • 1/2 cup milk or Mexican lager
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon chipotle powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
  • Optional: green onions for garnish
  • Optional: pickled jalapenos for garnish
  • Olive oil or butter if needed

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Broiler or open flame source
  • Bowl
  • Plastic wrap
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • Stirring spoon

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet, brown the sliced smoked sausage over medium heat. Remove the sausage and set aside, reserving any rendered fat in the skillet. If you need more fat, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
  2. Roast the Peppers: Roast the bell pepper and poblano pepper over an open flame or under a broiler until the skin is blackened. Place the peppers in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel the skin off. Once cooled, peel, seed, and dice the peppers.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and chipotle powder. This will help to evenly distribute the spices and prevent clumping.
  4. Melt the Cheese: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the Velveeta, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Add the milk or beer and the spice mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Be patient – this may take 15-20 minutes.
  5. Incorporate the Flavors: Stir in the browned sausage, roasted peppers, minced jalapeno, and diced tomatoes and green chiles. Continue to cook over low heat for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Adjust and Serve: Taste the queso and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the queso is too thick, add a little more milk or beer until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve hot with tortilla chips, pretzels, or your favorite dippers. Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or pickled jalapenos, if desired.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, adding a little milk or beer if needed to restore the desired consistency. For a spicier queso, leave the seeds in the jalapeno or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground beef or chorizo for the smoked sausage.