This 3-ingredient viral cottage cheese queso is spicy, creamy, cheesy and full of flavor. It’s the perfect high-protein snack or dip for any occasion, a delicious and healthier twist and crowd pleaser.
Try this cottage cheese taco dip next, this ranch dip, my cottage cheese scrambled eggs , this egg salad and this chocolate mousse.
I love me some cheesy dip every now and then but I can't normally justify the calories, it's a great alternative to the classic queso dip and the only swap I have made is adding cottage cheese. And let me tell you. It's a game changer.
This viral TikTok cottage cheese dip is viral for the a reason, check out all the reasons why I am making it at least once a week.
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Why I love this recipe
Nutritional benefits: This queso is healthier than the classic because it is lower in fat and carbs, high in protein.
Customizable: You can have it as a dip with tortilla chips, different kinds of veggies, or use it as a sauce for tacos, nachos, or burritos.
Delicious: When blended, cottage cheese creates a smooth, creamy texture that rivals traditional queso and with the addition of shredded cheese and seasonings gives it a delicious cheesy flavor that satisfies your cravings.
Easy and simple: It requires just 3 ingredients and minimal effort and no complicated steps, it comes together in minutes.
Ingredients needed
Cottage cheese: I always encourage my readers, family and friend to opt for the full fat version of cottage cheese for my recipes unless they are on a strict caloric deficit diet in which case they can use low fat or fat-free cottage cheese.
Cheddar cheese: You can use any type of cheddar cheese you like from the creamy and buttery mild to sharp and tangy and anything in between. I like to use a mix of all 3 but it's totally up to your preference or what you have available to you.
Taco seasoning: You can either use either ready-made taco seasoning packets or homemade seasoning! Both options will give you delicious tacos.
If you decide to go the homemade route, here is my taco seasoning recipe:
1 tablespoon chilli powder.
1 teaspoon cumin powder
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
How to make cottage cheese queso
Step 1- Blend cottage cheese
In a blender or food processor blend your cottage cheese and taco seasoning, stopping from time to t ime to scrape down the sides.
Step 2 - Add the cheese and melt
Transfer the blended cottage cheese and taco seasoning mixture to a microwave-safe bowl, add cheese, and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until melted and combined (about 3 times).
And serve.
Serving suggestions
Cottage cheese queso is a versatile dip that can be paired with a variety of foods. Here are some ideas:
- Tortilla chips: A classic choice for any dip.
- Veggies: Serve with sliced bell peppers, carrots, celery, or cucumber.
- Pita bread: Cut into triangles or squares and enjoy with the queso.
- Rice crackers: A healthier alternative to tortilla chips.
- Fruit: Dip apple slices or strawberries into the queso for a sweet and savory treat.
You can also use cottage cheese queso as a sauce for tacos, nachos, or burritos.
Hanaa's recipe tips
- You can make this dip on the stovetop, in the oven or the airfryer, just watch out for cooking times, thickness level and temperatures.
- If your dip turns out too thick you can add a tablespoon of water to make it runnier and easier to dip.
- Use a combination of cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese to create a unique flavor profile. A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper Jack is a classic choice.
- Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between abour 1 to 2 times, until the cheese is melted and smooth and then stop there otherwise it can lead to a grainy texture.
- Add a touch of acidity: A squeeze of lime or a splash of hot sauce can balance the sharp flavor of the cheese.
- You can make it extra spicy by adding diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage instructions
Fridge:
Store the completely cooled cottage cheese queso dip in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Microwave in 30 second intervals stirring in between until heated through and melted.
If using the sotve transfer the queso to a saucepan and warm it over low heat.
If the queso dip gets a little too thick for your liking when you reheat it, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to the mix.
Frequently asked questions
Cottage cheese is dairy-based, so you’d need to substitute it with a plant-based alternative like almond or cashew-based cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Same goes for the cheese.
Yes! The blend of cottage cheese with the other ingredients creates a rich, cheesy flavor similar to traditional queso
It may thicken slightly as it cools but should stay creamy. If it separates, whisk or reheat gently to bring it back together.
Cottage Cheese Queso
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor blend your cottage cheese and taco seasoning, stopping from time to t ime to scrape down the sides.
- Transfer the blended cottage cheese and taco seasoning mixture to a microwave-safe bowl, add cheese, and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until melted and combined (about 3 times).
Notes
- You can make this dip on the stovetop, in the oven or the airfryer, just watch out for cooking times, thickness level and temperatures.
- If your dip turns out too thick you can add a tablespoon of water to make it runnier and easier to dip.
- Store the completely cooled cottage cheese queso dip in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
- Microwave in 30 second intervals stirring in between until heated through and melted.
- If using the sotve transfer the queso to a saucepan and warm it over low heat.
- If the queso dip gets a little too thick for your liking when you reheat it, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to the mix.
