Cottage Cheese Queso Dip Recipe
Description
This healthy, creamy, and protein-packed queso dip is a delicious twist on traditional queso. Using cottage cheese instead of heavy cream or processed cheese makes it lighter while still keeping it rich and cheesy. It’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips, veggies, or even as a topping for tacos and nachos.
Prep Time & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings:
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
¼ cup milk (or more as needed for consistency)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch (or flour, for thickening)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional for heat)
¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional for extra texture)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Blend the Cottage Cheese
In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese and milk until smooth. This step helps create a creamy, queso-like consistency. Set aside.
Cook the Base
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add cornstarch, whisking continuously for about 30 seconds to form a roux.
Add Cheese & Spices
Stir in the blended cottage cheese mixture along with the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Simmer & Thicken
Cook on low heat, stirring frequently until the cheese is fully melted, and the dip thickens (about 2-3 minutes). If it gets too thick, add a little more milk.
Add Extras
Stir in jalapeños and diced tomatoes for extra texture and heat.
Serve Warm
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve warm with tortilla chips, veggies, or as a topping for tacos.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 120 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbs: 4g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sodium: 300mg
Common Questions & Answers
1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
2. Can I use fat-free cottage cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be less creamy. Adding a little extra milk or a teaspoon of olive oil can help smooth it out.
3. Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add extra jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cottage cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese. Swap butter for olive oil.
5. What can I serve with it?
Tortilla chips
Carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices
Drizzled over tacos, nachos, or burrito bowls
This Cottage Cheese Queso Dip is a healthier,
protein-rich alternative to traditional queso. Let me know if you’d like any modifications!