Smoked Queso

Smoked Queso is a cheesy and smoky dip that has become a popular appetizer and party snack in recent years. The dish originated in Texas and has quickly spread across the country due to its unique and delicious flavor.

The dish typically features a blend of melted cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, and queso blanco, mixed with other ingredients like diced tomatoes, green chilies, and spices. The mixture is then smoked over wood chips, which infuses the dip with a rich, smoky flavor and aroma.

Over time, variations of the dish have emerged, with some chefs adding different types of meats, such as smoked brisket, chicken, beef, or chorizo, to the mix. Grab your bag of tortilla chips and dig in.

Smoked Queso has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among food bloggers and home chefs who are looking for new and creative ways to add flavor to their dishes.

If you're looking to try your hand at making Smoked Queso, the Happy Burnt Endings smoked quest recipe below will offer step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for achieving the perfect flavor and texture. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and smoky flavor, Smoked Queso is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Smoked Queso

Servings: Serves 12

Prep Time: ~15-20 minutes

Cook Time: 2 - 3 hours

Total Time: 2:15 - 3:20

List of Ingredients:

• Optional: 1 lb of ground beef, chicken, pork, or whatever your heart desires. Pre-cook and season your meat of choice

• 8 oz of Pepper Jack Cheese (cubed)

• 8 oz of Mexican Blend Cheese (Shredded)

• 1 block of Cream Cheese (cubed)

• 1/2 yellow onion (diced) - pro tip, quickly brown the onion in the same pan you used for the beef

• 2 Roma Tomatoes (diced)

• 32 oz of Queso Blanco Velveeta (cubed)

• 1 cup of salsa (our favorite is Mateo’s)

• 1 small can of diced green chilis

• 1/2 cup of heavy cream

• 1/2 pack of your favorite taco seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 tsp. of MSG (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225° F for 30 minutes

2. In the frying pan of your choice, brown ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked

   1. (or) cook chicken breast over medium heat until the internal temperature hits 165° F (let rest and then dice)

   2. or brown chorizo over medium heat until fully cooked

3. If you decide to fry up your onion, dice and then add to the same pan you cooked your meat in. Fry up until the onion is golden brown

4. Dice the cream cheese, Velveeta, pepper jack, and tomatoes

5. Add all of the ingredients to a disposable aluminum pan (9x13”) or use your favorite dish. We use a Made In Au Gratin dish (https://bit.ly/3AMyOMR)

6. Place your dish into the smoker and cook for about 2 hours until the cheese is melted. Stir a few times throughout the cook. Cooking time may vary based on what type of pan or dish you use and the temperature outside.

7. Serve with your favorite tortilla chips and enjoy!