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–+ servings
Smoked Queso Dip

Irresistibly Smoky Queso Dip for Epic Game Day Feasts

This Smoked Queso Dip is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and smoky flavor, perfect for game day gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dip
  • 16 ounces Velveeta Cheese Provides a creamy base; substitute with cheddar for a sharper flavor.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Adds richness; consider Neufchâtel for a lighter option.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Enhances heartiness; omit for vegetarian version.
  • 10 ounces Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (Rotel) Gives a zesty kick; use fresh tomatoes if desired.
  • 1 can Chopped Green Chilies Elevates flavor; fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Offers a sharp, tangy dimension; blend various cheeses for complexity.
  • ½ cup Milk or Half-and-Half Adjusts creaminess; add more if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adds warmth; tweak to suit preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Optional for milder flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances savory base; fresh garlic gives a more robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Enhances savory base; fresh onion gives a more robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust before serving.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust before serving.
Toppings (Optional)
  • ¼ cup Chopped Cilantro For a fresh pop of color.
  • ½ cup Diced Onions Adds crunch and sweetness.
  • ½ cup Sliced Jalapeños Great for those who love spiciness.
For Serving
  • 1 bag Tortilla Chips Perfect vessel for dipping; choose thick chips.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Oven-safe skillet
  • Smoker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium heat for 7-10 minutes until no longer pink; drain excess fat.
  2. Season the beef with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder for about 2 minutes.
  3. In an oven-safe skillet, combine Velveeta, cream cheese, and diced tomatoes over low heat until melted.
  4. Add shredded cheddar and milk to the cheese mixture and stir until combined, adjusting for creaminess.
  5. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
  6. Smoke the cheese mixture for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.
  7. After one hour, fold in the seasoned ground beef.
  8. Adjust consistency with milk if necessary, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot with toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use cast iron for cooking and serving. Ensure cheeses are at room temperature for easier melting.

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