Imagine a dip that brings together the richness of cheese and the bold flavors of Tex-Mex.
Longhorn Steakhouse’s Cowboy Queso Dip is just that, a delightful blend of ground beef, cheeses, and a hint of spice. SO good!
A key tip for this recipe is to cook the sausage or beef until it’s deeply browned to maximize the flavor.
This is a go-to recipe for me because guests love it and it goes with just about any chip.
Don’t forget to add a splash of beer for a unique, zesty finish!
How to Make Longhorn Cowboy Queso Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 lb Chorizo
- 16 oz. Velveeta Cheese (cubed)
- 8 oz. Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1 can Tomatoes (14 oz., diced)
- 1 can Black Beans (15 oz., drained)
- 1 can Jalapeños (4 oz., diced)
- 2 cups Milk
- 1 tsp Cumin
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Cook the ground beef and chorizo in a large skillet over medium heat until browned.
Break the meat apart using a spatula and drain excess grease.
Step 2:
Reduce the heat to low-medium and add the cubed Velveeta and shredded cheddar cheese.
Stir the cheese mixture continuously until everything melts smoothly.
Step 3:
Mix in the diced tomatoes, drained black beans, and jalapeños.
Keep stirring vigorously to ensure even distribution in the dip.
Step 4:
Pour in the milk gradually while increasing heat to medium, and stir gently.
Continue until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Step 5:
Season with cumin, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
Allow the dip to gently simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors blend.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Quality Cheese Selection
Make sure to use good quality cheese in this recipe as it affects the texture and flavor greatly.
Different cheese types can also be experimented with if desired.
Consistent Stirring
Don’t forget to keep stirring the mixture as the cheese melts to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
It also helps in making the dip a consistent texture.
Alternative Additions
Feel free to add toppings like diced avocado or sour cream to enhance the flavor when serving.
Opt for a better presentation by including chopped cilantro over the finished dish.
Spice Control
If you’re not a fan of spicy food, consider using milder peppers or reducing the amount of jalapeños used.
This small adjustment can cater the recipe to your spice preference.
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftover queso dip in an airtight container for up to three days.
You can reheat it on the stove or in a microwave, stirring frequently to keep it creamy.
What to Serve with Longhorn Cowboy Queso Dip
Traditional Tortilla Chips
You can’t go wrong with classic tortilla chips when serving Longhorn Cowboy Queso Dip.
Their crispy texture perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy dip, providing that satisfying crunch with every bite.
It’s a match made in snack heaven, and a reliable choice that everyone enjoys!
Fresh Veggie Sticks
Adding some fresh veggie sticks is a fantastic and healthy pairing with this dip.
You can slice up some crisp celery, vibrant bell peppers, or fresh cucumbers to create a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory queso.
These veggies provide an excellent balance and add a burst of color to your spread!
Warm Soft Pretzels
Imagine dipping a warm, soft pretzel into that gooey queso dip.
It’s an unusual but delightful option that brings warmth and a soft, chewy texture to the mix.
Warm pretzels add a little bit of a twist, and they’re just irresistible when paired with cheesy goodness.
Spicy Jalapeño Poppers
If you’re up for a bit of a kick, try serving jalapeño poppers on the side.
These spicy, cheesy snacks are a bold complement that adds extra flavor dimensions to your queso experience.
With every bite, you get a nice blend of heat and creaminess that keeps things exciting!
Sweet Potato Fries
Looking for something a little unexpected? Try some sweet potato fries!
Their natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the savory notes of the queso dip.
Plus, the soft interior and crispy exterior of the fries make every dip into the queso a delightful experience.
Variations and Substitutions
Meat Options
You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer lighter options. Crumbled sausage works beautifully, too, adding a spicy kick that balances the creamy cheese.
Cheese Choices
You might swap out Velveeta for Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you like an extra punch, add some pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Alternatives
Simply omit the meat and load it up with more veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Black beans can also add a hearty texture and plenty of protein.
Spice Levels
Alter the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes or choosing mild or hot diced tomatoes with green chilies. Add jalapeños if you’re feeling bold!
Beer Variations
For a non-alcoholic version, you can replace beer with chicken or vegetable broth. It still provides a rich depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
Cooking Methods
Although a smoker gives a wonderful smoky flavor, you can also bake it in the oven. An oven-baked rib will mimic the slow smolder of a smoker.
How to Store Leftover Longhorn Cowboy Queso Dip Recipe
Cooling Down
Make sure you allow the queso dip to cool at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes.
This helps prevent excess moisture from forming in the storage container.
Choosing the Right Container
Use an airtight container to store your queso dip in the refrigerator.
A glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works best for maintaining freshness.
Refrigeration Time
Keep the cooled queso dip in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days safely.
Ensure you check for any signs of spoilage before consuming it within this timeframe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Pre-cook
Don’t just toss everything into the pan without pre-cooking the meat! Always ensure your ground beef or sausage is browned and fully cooked before adding the cheese.
This helps build a richer flavor profile and avoids unpleasantly raw or chewy meat chunks in your queso.
Ignoring Consistency
It’s tempting to rush through, adding all ingredients at once.
Avoid this by maintaining a smooth texture; gradually mix in your cheeses, letting each one melt fully before adding the next.
This prevents the dip from becoming grainy or clumpy.
Overlooking Backup Heat
Not adjusting the spice level to suit diverse palates can make or break your dish!
Use jalapeños cautiously, taste as you go, and keep some additional spices handy for tweaking.
Everyone’s heat tolerance varies, so it’s always easier to add more spice than to try to dilute it later!

longhorn-cowboy-queso-dip-recipe
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 lb Chorizo
- 16 oz. Velveeta Cheese cubed
- 8 oz. Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 can Tomatoes 14 oz., diced
- 1 can Black Beans 15 oz., drained
- 1 can Jalapeños 4 oz., diced
- 2 cups Milk
- 1 tsp Cumin
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Cook the ground beef and chorizo in a large skillet over medium heat until browned.
- Break the meat apart using a spatula and drain excess grease.
- Reduce the heat to low-medium and add the cubed Velveeta and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir the cheese mixture continuously until everything melts smoothly.
- Mix in the diced tomatoes, drained black beans, and jalapeños.
- Keep stirring vigorously to ensure even distribution in the dip.
- Pour in the milk gradually while increasing heat to medium, and stir gently.
- Continue until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Season with cumin, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
- Allow the dip to gently simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors blend.
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