Chili Cheese Dip (Beefy Queso) Recipe

Sizzling Chili Cheese Dip (Beefy Queso) Recipe for Game Day Fun

Creamy chili cheese dip bursts with hearty flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance with excitement.

Melted goodness combines perfectly in this crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Beef provides a robust foundation for the ultimate party snack.

Smooth cheese blends seamlessly with spicy seasonings, creating an irresistible combination.

Jalapeños add a kick that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Quick preparation means you can whip up this delectable treat in minutes.

Dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to be the star of any gathering.

Chili Cheese Dip That’s a Party Staple

  • Crowd-Pleaser Perfection
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up this mouthwatering dip in just a few simple steps, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings, game nights, or spontaneous snack attacks without complicated techniques.
  • Customizable Comfort: Easily adjust the spice level by tweaking chili powder or adding hot sauce, making it adaptable for different taste preferences and ensuring everyone from kids to spice lovers can enjoy this delectable treat.
  • Protein-Packed Snack: Loaded with ground beef and two types of cheese, this dip offers a satisfying protein boost that keeps hunger at bay and delivers a punch of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients for Beefy Chili Cheese Dip

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that provides the substantial foundation for the chili cheese dip.
Cheese Components:
  • Velveeta Cheese, Cheddar Cheese: Creamy cheeses that create a rich, smooth, and melty texture for the dip.
Aromatic and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that add depth and savory notes to the dip.
  • Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies, Chili without Beans: Adds tangy and spicy elements to complement the cheese and meat.
  • Chili Powder, Cumin, Salt, Pepper: Spices that provide warmth, complexity, and balanced seasoning to the dish.
Serving Suggestion:
  • Tortilla Chips: The perfect crunchy vehicle for scooping up this delicious and creamy dip.

How to Make Chili Cheese Dip

Step 1: Brown Savory Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium temperature.

Cook ground beef until it transforms into a rich, caramel-brown color.

Drain away any extra grease to keep the dip light and delectable.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Toss chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet.

Sauté until the vegetables become translucent and release their tantalizing fragrance, creating a flavor foundation for the dip.

Step 3: Introduce Zesty Tomato Mixture

Add these ingredients to the skillet:
  • Diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • Chili (without beans)

Stir the mixture thoroughly, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop a robust flavor profile.

Step 4: Melt Creamy Cheese Base

Drop Velveeta cheese cubes into the skillet.

Gently stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and velvety texture that coats all the ingredients.

Step 5: Enhance with Spices and Cheddar

Sprinkle in these flavor-boosting ingredients:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir continuously until the cheese melts entirely and all components blend into a harmonious, creamy dip.

Step 6: Serve and Devour

Transfer the hot, bubbling dip to a serving bowl.

Accompany with crispy tortilla chips for an irresistible appetizer that will vanish in minutes.

Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Pro Tips for Chili Cheese Dip

  • Remove all excess fat from ground beef to prevent a greasy dip and ensure a cleaner, more appetizing texture.
  • Adjust chili powder and cumin levels to match your heat preference, creating a personalized flavor profile.
  • Cut Velveeta into small, uniform cubes for faster, more even melting and a smoother consistency.
  • Replace tortilla chips with vegetable sticks like bell peppers or cucumber for a healthier dipping option.
  • Prepare the dip in advance and reheat gently in a slow cooker or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creamy texture.

Variations for Chili Cheese Dip

  • Vegetarian Queso: Replace ground beef with black beans or plant-based meat crumbles for a meatless version that's packed with protein and flavor.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Dip: Add diced fresh jalapeños or increase chili powder to create a more intense, fiery cheese dip that kicks up the heat.
  • Low-Carb Keto Dip: Swap tortilla chips for crispy pork rinds or cucumber slices as a low-carb dipping option while maintaining the rich, cheesy goodness.
  • Green Chile Chicken Version: Substitute ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter protein option that still delivers incredible taste.

Serving Suggestions for Chili Cheese Dip

  • Dip Dive Party Platter: Create a stunning appetizer spread with multiple dipping options like crispy tortilla chips, fresh vegetable sticks, and warm pita bread for variety.
  • Game Night Crowd Pleaser: Keep this hot dip in a slow cooker during sports events or movie nights to maintain temperature and allow guests to serve themselves easily.
  • Topping Adventure: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro, diced green onions, or crumbled bacon on top for extra flavor and visual appeal that will make your chili cheese dip look gourmet.
  • Leftover Magic: Transform remaining dip into a quick quesadilla filling or use as a zesty sauce for baked potatoes, creating a delicious second-day meal.

Storing Chili Cheese Dip Properly

  • Transfer leftover dip to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the flavor.
  • Place desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through and creamy.
  • Reheat the dip in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its original smooth consistency. Stir constantly to prevent scorching and maintain creamy texture.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients for this Chili Cheese Dip?

Ground beef, Velveeta cheese, shredded cheddar, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili, onion, and garlic are the main ingredients that create the rich, creamy flavor of this dip.

  • Is this dip spicy?

The dip has a mild to moderate heat level from the green chilies and chili powder. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chili powder or using mild green chilies.

  • Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance and reheat it in a slow cooker or microwave. Just keep it covered and stir occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.

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
Chili Cheese Dip (Beefy Queso) Recipe

Chili Cheese Dip (Beefy Queso) Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Mexican chili cheese dip merges hearty ground beef with creamy melted cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Loaded with bold spices and simple ingredients, this quick recipe brings zesty comfort to game day gatherings you will devour.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
  • 1 pound (454 grams) Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10 ounces / 284 grams) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) chili without beans

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

  1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, thoroughly draining accumulated fat to prevent greasiness.
  2. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic with the beef until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Incorporate diced tomatoes with green chilies and prepared chili, stirring to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
  4. Gradually add Velveeta cheese cubes, continuously stirring until completely liquefied and creating a silky, uniform consistency.
  5. Introduce shredded cheddar cheese, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the mixture, maintaining consistent heat to ensure complete cheese integration.
  6. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and develop a rich, creamy texture.
  7. Transfer the hot dip to a serving bowl, ensuring even distribution of ingredients and maintaining optimal temperature.
  8. Accompany with crisp tortilla chips for an irresistible appetizer or game day snack, serving immediately while cheese remains molten and inviting.

Notes

  • Trim excess fat from ground beef thoroughly to prevent greasy texture and reduce calories for health-conscious eaters.
  • Experiment with lean ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter protein option that maintains robust flavor profile.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder or adding diced jalapeños for spice enthusiasts who crave extra kick.
  • Control sodium content by selecting low-sodium canned tomatoes and using reduced-sodium cheese varieties without compromising delicious taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 417
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 870 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 21 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star