This smoked queso dip is rich, creamy, and packed with bold, smoky flavors. Perfect for parties, game nights, or BBQ gatherings, this cheesy dip features melted cheese, spicy jalapeños, savory sausage, and a hint of smoke that takes it to the next level. Serve it hot with tortilla chips for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Contents
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 lb spicy sausage (or chorizo), cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel works great!)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Smoker
Set your smoker to 250°F (120°C). If using a pellet grill, cherry, hickory, or mesquite wood chips work well for an extra smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Ingredients
In a cast-iron skillet or disposable aluminum pan, add cubed Velveeta, shredded Monterey Jack, cooked sausage, diced tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, milk, and seasonings. Stir lightly to combine.
3. Smoke the Queso
Place the skillet on the smoker uncovered and let it smoke for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15-20 minutes to ensure the cheese melts evenly and absorbs the smoky flavor.
4. Stir & Adjust Consistency
Once fully melted, stir well and adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed. If you prefer a thicker dip, let it cook for an additional 15 minutes.
5. Serve Hot
Remove from the smoker, sprinkle with jalapeños, and serve immediately with tortilla chips, pretzels, or fresh veggies.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Use a blend of cheeses: Velveeta creates a smooth texture, while Monterey Jack adds richness. You can also add Pepper Jack for extra spice.
- Adjust the spice level: Use more or fewer jalapeños based on your heat preference. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Make it meaty: Swap sausage for ground beef, brisket, or shredded chicken for a unique twist.
- No smoker? No problem! You can bake this dip in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes or cook it on the stovetop over low heat. Add a drop of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This smoked queso dip pairs well with:
- Tortilla chips – Classic and crunchy, the perfect vessel for cheesy goodness.
- Grilled bread or pretzels – Adds a hearty, chewy bite.
- Fresh veggies – Serve with celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices.
- Tacos or nachos – Drizzle over your favorite Mexican dishes for an extra cheesy kick.
- Breakfast burritos – Use it as a creamy sauce over eggs and potatoes.
This smoked queso dip is a must-try for cheese lovers. With its deep, smoky flavor and creamy texture, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!
I have been smoking and grilling meat from an early age and enjoy sharing my knowledge and expertise through the hundreds of articles I have written about BBQ. I hope to make everyone’s BBQ journey that little bit easier.