Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Close-up of cottage cheese queso in a bowl with tortilla chips by Samsung S24 Ultra Close-Up Shots


  • Author: Emily Hart
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

This cottage cheese queso is a creamy, protein-packed alternative to traditional queso. Made with blended cottage cheese, melted cheddar, and flavorful spices, it’s perfect for dipping chips, drizzling over nachos, or spreading on tacos. A quick and healthy dip you’ll love!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon diced jalapeños
  • 12 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

  • Blend the cottage cheese – In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
  • Melt the cheddar cheese – In a saucepan over low heat, melt the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly.
  • Combine cheeses – Pour the blended cottage cheese into the saucepan and stir well.
  • Season the queso – Mix in garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and lime juice.
  • Adjust the texture – Add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the queso reaches your desired consistency.
  • Stir in mix-ins – Add diced jalapeños and tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Serve & enjoy – Transfer to a bowl and serve warm with chips, veggies, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Notes

  • For extra smoothness: Blend all ingredients together instead of stirring by hand.
  • For a spicier kick: Add extra jalapeños, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce.
  • For a richer flavor: Try using full-fat cottage cheese and freshly shredded cheese.
  • For a vegan version: Use dairy-free cottage cheese and vegan shredded cheese.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: ¼ cup
  • Calories: 120kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg