Print

Smoked Queso Dip

smoked queso dip - featured image
Print Recipe

A smoky, melty queso dip cooked on the grill with simple ingredients, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (225g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (113g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1 medium jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). If using charcoal, set it up for indirect heat to avoid flames touching the skillet.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack (if using), and softened cream cheese. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, ground cumin, and salt. Mix until evenly distributed.
  3. Finely chop the jalapeño, removing seeds if you prefer milder heat. Set aside.
  4. Place a cast iron skillet or heavy-duty grill-safe pan on the grill grates. Add the cheese mixture and milk or half-and-half. Stir gently and continuously with a spatula to help the cheese melt evenly and prevent scorching.
  5. After about 5 minutes, sprinkle in the chopped jalapeño. Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to trap smoke and heat. Stir every 2-3 minutes until the dip is fully melted, creamy, and smooth, about 15-18 minutes total.
  6. Remove the skillet from the grill. Optionally stir in lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro.
  7. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or grilled meats.

Notes

Keep grill heat steady at medium (around 350°F) to avoid scorching or separating the cheese. Stir gently every 2-3 minutes. Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture. Keep the grill lid closed to trap smoke and heat. Add a splash more milk if dip is too thick. For variations, add cooked chorizo, swap jalapeño for green chiles, or use smoked cheddar for extra smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked queso dip, grilled queso, party snack, cheese dip, smoky dip, grill recipe, appetizer

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/smoked-queso-dip-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-the-best-grill-party-snack/