Cowboy Queso

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Diced jalapeños (optional)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Sliced green onions (optional)
• Chips or fresh veggies for serving

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart into small pieces. Cook until fully browned, approximately 7-10 minutes. Ensure there’s no pink remaining in the meat for a safe and delicious dip. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. To the skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream cheese, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cream cheese has melted and everything is well combined, about 5 minutes.
4. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy, about 5 minutes.
5. Taste the queso and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or cayenne for extra heat.
6. Transfer the Cowboy Queso to a warmed serving dish. Top with your choice of jalapeños, cilantro, sour cream, or green onions. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.