Description
This Cowboy Queso recipe is a creamy, cheesy dip packed with ground beef, melted Velveeta and pepper jack cheeses, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Infused with a hint of Pale Ale beer and spices, it’s perfect for game day, parties, or casual snacking. Ready in just 20 minutes, it combines savory flavors and smooth textures for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1/2 lb. ground beef
Cheese
- 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
Vegetables & Legumes
- 1 14.5 oz can Rotel Tomatoes (partially drained)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Liquids & Seasonings
- 3/4 cup Pale Ale (Tuckerman Pale Ale recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook thoroughly, breaking the meat into small crumbles until browned and fully cooked.
- Add the Pale Ale: Pour the Pale Ale into the skillet and stir to combine with the beef. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes so the beer reduces slightly and the flavors meld.
- Melt the cheeses and tomatoes: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cubed Velveeta, shredded pepper jack cheese, and partially drained Rotel tomatoes to the skillet. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate beans and aromatics: Stir in the black beans, diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly throughout the queso.
- Heat through: Continue cooking the dip on low, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and flavors are fully integrated.
- Serve: Serve the cowboy queso hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier dip, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
- You can substitute the Pale Ale with another light beer or even chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Ensure the Velveeta is cubed to allow for even melting.
- Partially draining the Rotel tomatoes prevents the queso from becoming too watery.
- This dip can be kept warm in a slow cooker on low setting if serving at a party.
