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Cottage Cheese Queso

Cottage Cheese Queso

This easy Cottage Cheese Queso recipe offers a creamy, flavorful, and quick snack option that combines tangy richness with just the right amount of spice. Made with wholesome ingredients like cottage cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for entertaining or a cozy solo snack. Ready in under 15 minutes, this dip is a healthier and customizable twist on the classic queso.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheeses

  • 1 cup cottage cheese, drained
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Fresh Ingredients

  • 12 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely chop the jalapeño peppers and fresh cilantro. Grate the cheddar cheese so it melts easily, and drain any excess liquid from the cottage cheese to ensure the queso is thick and creamy.
  2. Blend the Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, grated cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed for even mixing.
  3. Add Heat and Herbs: Stir in the chopped jalapeños and cilantro by hand to maintain texture and a fresh burst of flavor in the dip.
  4. Adjust Seasonings: Taste your cottage cheese queso and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired. For extra heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  5. Serve Warm or Cold: Serve immediately with your favorite chips, veggies, or use as a spread. To serve warm, gently microwave the dip for 30 seconds or until heated through, stirring halfway.

Notes

  • Drain the cottage cheese well to avoid watery queso.
  • Use fresh jalapeños and cilantro for the best flavor.
  • Blend thoroughly to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeño gradually to control heat level.
  • Best enjoyed fresh within 1-2 days for optimal taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: cottage cheese queso, healthy dip, creamy queso, quick snack, jalapeño queso, easy appetizer