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A cast iron skillet filled with creamy, cheesy queso with ground beef. This image showcases the texture of the best queso dip.

Cowboy Queso Recipe (The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser)

This Cowboy Queso Recipe is the ultimate party dip! Packed with seasoned ground beef, chorizo, and a creamy Velveeta base, this easy-to-make queso is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any game day or gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Velveeta cheese cubed
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened and cubed
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb chorizo casings removed
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles undrained
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and finely diced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • 1 Slow Cooker (Optional)

Method
 

Stovetop Instructions
  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and chorizo over medium-high heat until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the diced onion and jalapeño to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened.
  3. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed Velveeta, cream cheese, Rotel (undrained), and all seasonings.
  4. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the dip is smooth and creamy. This may take 10-15 minutes. Serve warm.
Crockpot Instructions
  1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chorizo until browned. Drain the grease and transfer the cooked meat to your slow cooker.
  2. Add the cubed Velveeta, cream cheese, Rotel, onion, jalapeño, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring every 45 minutes. Once smooth, turn to the 'warm' setting to serve.

Notes

Tip 1: For a thicker dip, use less milk or add more cheese. For a thinner dip, add a splash of milk or beer until it reaches the desired consistency.
Tip 2: Ensure you drain the grease from the meat very well to prevent the queso from becoming oily.
Tip 3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.