Cottage Cheese Queso

Name: Cottage Cheese Queso
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup diced green chilies; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/4 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Are you ready to elevate your snack game? This cottage cheese queso is not only rich and creamy but also packed with protein, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cheese dips. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, this dish combines the smoothness of cottage cheese with zesty flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1/4 cup diced green chilies
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 10 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1/2 cup) contains about 150 calories, 10g protein, 8g fat, and 5g carbohydrates. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

In a blender, combine cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes.
Add green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over medium heat.
Cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once heated through, remove from heat.
Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve warm with tortilla chips or veggies.
Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese queso!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. Feel free to add more spices or jalapeños for extra heat!

Serving and Pairings

This cottage cheese queso pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even as a topping for nachos. It’s also great as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. It can be frozen, but the texture may change when thawed.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t over-blend; you want a creamy texture, not a purée.
Watch the heat; cooking too fast can cause separation.
Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the garnishes; they add freshness!

Helpful Tips

For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream.
Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
Serve immediately for the best texture.
Make it ahead of time for easy entertaining.

FAQs

Can I make this queso vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese and Greek yogurt for a vegan version without sacrificing flavor.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Is cottage cheese queso healthy?

Yes! It’s lower in calories and higher in protein compared to traditional queso, making it a healthier choice.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses for a customized flavor profile.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Cottage cheese queso is a delightful and healthy twist on a classic favorite. With its creamy texture and zesty flavors, it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy this nutritious dip guilt-free!