smoked queso recipe

If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping appetizer that’s smoky, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible, look no further than this Smoked Queso Dip! Loaded with Velveeta, pepper jack cheese, Rotel, and your favorite meats, this dip is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion—be it game day, a family gathering, or even a cozy camping trip.

Ready to transform your queso game? Fire up your smoker, grab your chips, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Queso Recip

This isn’t your average cheese dip. It’s smoky, creamy, and fully customizable! Unlike traditional skillet queso, this dip takes on a rich, smoky flavor that elevates every ingredient. Whether you’re using sausage, chorizo, or ground beef, the results are guaranteed to be mouthwatering.

Here are just a few reasons to love it:

• Easy to Make: Just toss everything into a pan and let the smoker or grill do the work.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties, camping trips, or casual movie nights.
• Highly Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses, meats, or spices to make it your own.
• Versatile: Pairs perfectly with chips, crackers, veggies, or even pretzel bites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a ton of ingredients to make this smoky masterpiece. With just seven main ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up, and there’s plenty of room for creative add-ins.

Essentials:

• Velveeta Cheese (32 oz): The creamy base that melts like a dream.
• Pepper Jack or Cheddar Cheese (8 oz): For extra cheesy flavor.
• Cooked Sausage, Chorizo, or Ground Beef (1 lb): Choose your favorite protein for added heartiness.
• Rotel (2 cans): Adds a zesty, tomato-y kick.
• White Onion (½ cup, diced): Brings a touch of sweetness.
• Jalapeños (2, finely diced): For a little heat. Adjust to taste or omit if you prefer it mild.
• Garlic (1 tbsp, minced): Adds depth to the flavor.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Evaporated Milk: For a thinner, creamier consistency.
• Cream Cheese: For a tangy, ultra-rich twist.
• Pickled Red Onions or Peppers: For a punch of acidity.
• Green Chiles or Cayenne Pepper: To amp up the spice level.

How to Make Smoked Queso

1. Preheat Your Smoker or Grill

Set your smoker or grill to 225–250°F. If using a gas grill, create smoke by adding wood chips to a smoker box. For charcoal, add wood chunks directly to the coals.

2. Assemble the Ingredients

In a cast-iron skillet or disposable aluminum pan, combine all ingredients. Arrange them evenly for easy melting.

3. Cook the Queso

• Place the pan on the smoker or grill’s indirect heat side.
• Stir every 15–20 minutes to ensure even melting and prevent sticking.
• Let it smoke for 1–2 hours, depending on your preferred smoky intensity.

4. Optional Finishing Touch

If you prefer a thinner consistency, stir in evaporated milk a little at a time until the desired texture is achieved.

5. Serve Warm

Transfer the queso to a slow cooker set on “warm” to maintain its creamy consistency throughout your event.

Serving Suggestions

Smoked Queso is an ultimate party dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers:

• Classic Tortilla Chips
• Pretzel Bites
• Pork Rinds
• Fresh Veggies like carrot sticks or bell peppers
• Crusty Bread or Baguette Slices

Flavor Variations

3-Cheese Queso

Add a block of cream cheese or shredded smoked gouda for an extra cheesy punch.

Meat Lovers’ Queso

Add leftover smoked brisket, pulled pork, or even diced bacon for a heartier dip.

Tex-Mex Fiesta

Stir in chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dash of cumin for a fresh, vibrant twist.

Spicy Kick

Amp up the heat with diced habaneros or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Expert Tips for Perfect Queso

1. Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
2. Brown Your Meat First: Cook and drain the meat beforehand to avoid greasy queso.
3. Keep It Creamy: For longer events, transfer the queso to a slow cooker to keep it warm and melty.
4. Customize the Smoke Level: Smoke for 30 minutes for a lighter flavor or up to 2 hours for a deep, smoky taste.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Queso Dip is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. Whether you’re tailgating, hosting friends, or camping by the beach, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. With endless variations, it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing appetizer that you’ll want to make again and again.

Don’t forget to share your smoked queso creations and variations in the comments below. We’d love to see how you made it your own!