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High Protein Cottage Cheese Queso

High Protein Cottage Cheese Queso

Dive into our High Protein Cottage Cheese Queso, a creamy, decadent dip that’s surprisingly healthy and incredibly satisfying. This recipe redefines your favorite cheesy indulgence, offering a protein-packed alternative that will become your go-to for game nights, gatherings, or simply a delicious snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course: Dip

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese (about 2 cups)
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese (about 1 cup, shredded)
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 cup, shredded)
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies drained
  • 2 tablespoons milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
  • Diced jalapeños (for garnish, optional)
  • Your favorite tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Food Processor
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Small saucepan

Method
 

  1. Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor. Blend until the cottage cheese is completely smooth and no curds remain. This step is crucial for achieving the ultra-creamy texture of your High Protein Cottage Cheese Queso.
    16 ounces low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese
  2. Add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, drained diced green chilies, milk, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the blender or food processor with the smooth cottage cheese.
    4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, Pinch cayenne pepper
  3. Process all the ingredients until they are well combined and form a smooth, creamy mixture. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor a few times to ensure everything is incorporated.
  4. Pour the queso mixture into a medium microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan.
  5. Microwave Method: Microwave on high power for 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the queso is heated through and achieves your desired consistency. This will likely take about 1.5 to 3 minutes total, depending on your microwave. Be careful not to overheat.
  6. Stovetop Method: Heat the queso over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it is fully heated and creamy. Do not boil.
  7. Taste the High Protein Cottage Cheese Queso and season with salt as needed. Stir to combine.
    salt
  8. Transfer the warm queso to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and diced jalapeños (if desired). Serve immediately with your favorite tortilla chips or crunchy vegetable sticks for dipping.
    Fresh cilantro, Diced jalapeños, Your favorite tortilla chips or vegetable sticks

Notes

To store leftover High Protein Cottage Cheese Queso, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm. If it seems thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.