Smoked Queso Recipe: The Unexplained Crowd-Pleaser You Need

If you’re looking to elevate your queso game, this smoked queso recipe is exactly what you need. It combines creamy cheese, savory meats, and a smoky kick that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Even if you don’t have a smoker, you can still make this dish in the oven and add a dash of liquid smoke for that irresistible flavor. Whether it’s for a backyard BBQ, game-day celebration, or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers a rich, indulgent dip that’s bound to be a hit.

With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, this smoked queso is as simple as it is delicious. The bold flavors come together seamlessly, and you can even customize the heat level to suit your taste. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to dish for any gathering, big or small. Serve it with some snacks, chips or drizzle it over nachos—it’s the secret to unforgettable appetizers!

Smoked Queso Recipe

Recipe by kenzaDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

hour

Calories per serving

350

kcal

Rich, creamy, and smoky—this smoked queso blends cheeses, spices, and savory meats to create the ultimate BBQ appetizer.

Ingredients

1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1 lb ground beef or sausage, cooked and crumbled
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup diced jalapeños
1/4 cup cream cheese
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 cup milk
Tortilla chips for serving

Directions

Preheat your smoker: Set your smoker to 250°F (120°C) using your favorite wood chips, like hickory or mesquite.
Prepare the queso mixture: In a large aluminum pan, combine the cubed Velveeta, shredded pepper jack cheese, cooked ground beef or sausage, Rotel, diced onions, jalapeños, cream cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add milk: Stir in the milk to help with the consistency.
Smoke it: Place the pan in the preheated smoker. Close the lid and let the queso smoke for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
Serve: Once the queso is fully melted and bubbling, remove from the smoker. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or your favorite dipping snacks.

Notes

You can swap ground beef for sausage or even chorizo for added flavor.
You can substitute Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies with diced tomatoes and green chilies, canned diced tomatoes with fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers, or plain diced tomatoes with added chili powder for heat.
Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
Stir every 15 minutes to prevent burning.

Tips for Smoked Queso Recipe:

Choose the right wood: Hickory or mesquite will give your queso a bold, smoky flavor. For a milder taste, use fruit woods like apple or cherry.
Monitor the smoker temperature: Maintain a consistent 250°F to ensure even melting without scorching.
Cheese consistency: If the queso is too thick, add a splash more milk to thin it out while stirring.
Mix it up: Add cooked bacon, green onions, or cilantro for a more dynamic flavor profile.
Leftovers?: Reheat smoked queso in the oven at 350°F until warm, stirring occasionally.

Best Sides to Serve with Smoked Queso for the Ultimate Party Spread:

Tortilla Chips: The classic pairing, tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the rich, smoky queso. Opt for sturdy chips that can hold the weight of the cheese and meat.
Grilled Sausages or Hot Dogs: Many BBQ enthusiasts recommend serving smoked queso alongside grilled meats like sausages, hot dogs, or even sliced bratwurst for dipping or drizzling.
Pretzels: Soft pretzels or pretzel bites offer a chewy contrast to the creamy queso and add a slightly salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the dip.
Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies like celery, carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber slices provide a lighter, crunchy option to balance the richness of the queso.
Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a tray and drizzle the smoked queso over the top. Add toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, and cilantro to create loaded nachos.
Breadsticks or Garlic Bread: Some food blogs suggest serving queso with breadsticks or slices of garlic bread, which can be used for dipping or simply to enjoy with the flavors of the dip.
Potato Wedges or Fries: Crispy baked or fried potato wedges and fries are another popular pairing. The queso can be used as a dipping sauce for an extra indulgent side.

Storing Smoked Queso:

To store smoked queso, allow it to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a microwave or stovetop with a bit of milk to restore the creamy texture.

Frequently asked questions about this Recipe :

Can I make smoked queso ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the queso mixture ahead of time and smoke it just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have a smoker?

No problem! You can bake the queso in the oven at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, then add a few drops of liquid smoke for that signature flavor.

Can I freeze smoked queso?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

What if I don’t have Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies?

Don’t worry, you can replace it with diced tomatoes and green chilies, canned diced tomatoes with fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers, or plain diced tomatoes with added chili powder for heat.

This smoked queso recipe is indeed more than just a dip, it’s a showstopper at any party.. From its velvety texture to the rich, smoky undertones, each bite is an indulgence. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and even movie nights, this recipe will have everyone obsessed. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners. Elevate your queso game with this unique twist on a classic!