Name: Cowboy Queso Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup diced onions; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can diced green chilies; 1 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Cowboy Queso Dip is a rich, hearty, and flavor-packed dip that’s perfect for game day, parties, or a casual night in. With seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and just the right amount of spice, this dip brings comfort and bold Southwestern flavors all in one skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this recipe is to throw together with simple ingredients and minimal prep. It’s a one-skillet dish, which means less cleanup for me, and it always gets rave reviews when I serve it at gatherings. The combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory makes it irresistible, and it pairs beautifully with crunchy tortilla chips. Plus, it’s customizable – I can spice it up or mellow it down depending on who’s coming over.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup diced bell peppers
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can diced green chilies
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

I start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s cooked through, I drain the excess fat to keep the dip from getting greasy.
Next, I add the onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, letting them cook with the beef until everything is soft and fragrant.
Then I reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, green chilies, sour cream, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
I let the mixture cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is completely melted and everything is smooth and creamy.
I serve it warm with a big bowl of tortilla chips for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 servings, depending on how hungry everyone is and whether it’s the main event or part of a larger spread. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in just 25 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to switch things up. I’ve swapped the ground beef for spicy sausage or ground turkey for a lighter option. If I want extra heat, I’ll toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. I’ve also stirred in black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. For a smoky twist, a little smoked paprika goes a long way.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the dip in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. If it thickens too much, a splash of milk or a little more sour cream helps bring it back to its creamy consistency.

FAQs

What kind of cheese works best for this dip?

I stick with cheddar because it melts well and adds sharp flavor, but I’ve also used Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend when I want something a little different.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day in advance. I just reheat it gently before serving and give it a good stir to bring everything back together.

Is this dip spicy?

It has a mild kick from the green chilies and chili powder, but I find it pretty balanced. If I want it spicier, I add jalapeños or hot sauce.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. I skip the ground beef and use black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute instead. The flavor is still great, and the texture holds up.

What can I serve with Cowboy Queso Dip?

I usually serve it with tortilla chips, but it also tastes amazing with pita chips, sliced baguette, or even as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.

Conclusion

Cowboy Queso Dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s rich, creamy, and full of bold, satisfying flavors. I love how easy it is to make and how well it fits into any casual gathering. Whether I’m hosting game night or just craving a warm, cheesy snack, this dip always hits the spot.