High-Protein Cottage Cheese Queso

It's perfect for dipping fresh veggies (hellooo colorful bell peppers or cucumber sticks!) or your favorite tortilla chips. And if you're already planning a Tex-Mex night, this queso is the ultimate sidekick.

Looking for more veggie-packed dips? You'll love my Dill Pickle Hummus .

Here's what you'll need to make this creamy queso dip. Exact amounts are in the recipe card below!

• Cottage cheese - Use 2% or full-fat for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese - Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy bite.
• Monterey Jack cheese - Melts beautifully and adds that silky, classic queso feel.
• Taco seasoning - Use your favorite store-bought mix or a homemade version for extra control over spice.
• Salsa - Adds acidity and extra flavor. Chunky or smooth, both work well!
• Jalapeños - Dice them small and remove the seeds if you prefer less heat.
• Salt & pepper - To taste, once everything is melted and mixed.
• Fresh cilantro - Optional, but highly recommended for a fresh finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Blend the base
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and taco seasoning. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth-no lumps allowed!

Step 2: Add salsa and spice
Transfer the cheesy blend to a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in your salsa and chopped jalapeños. This is where all the flavor comes to life.

Step 3: Heat it up
Microwave the dip on high for 1 minute. Give it a good stir, then heat for another 30 seconds until it's warm, melty, and irresistible.

Step 4: Season to taste
Now's the time to add salt and pepper. A little goes a long way!

Step 5: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve warm with your favorite dippers.

Tips for Queso Success

• Want it spicier? Add extra jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne.
• Make it chunky: Stir in canned corn, black beans, or fire-roasted tomatoes for added texture.
• No microwave? You can heat it gently in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often.
• Storage: Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
• Texture too thick? Stir in a splash of milk or more salsa to loosen it up.

How to Serve It

This queso is surprisingly versatile:

• With raw veggies like bell peppers, cucumber sticks, celery, or grape tomatoes
• As a dip for tortilla chips or pita chips
• Drizzled over roasted potatoes, nachos, or even in a quesadilla
• As a spread inside wraps or burritos-seriously, it works!

Variations to Try

• Southwest Queso: Stir in black beans, corn, and chopped red onion.
• Roasted Garlic Queso: Add a few cloves of roasted garlic before blending.
• Buffalo Queso: Mix in a tablespoon of buffalo sauce and serve with celery sticks.
• Greek Yogurt Queso: Sub half the cottage cheese for Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.