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Creamy Chili Con Queso with Ground Beef

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This creamy chili con queso with ground beef is a rich, cheesy, and hearty party dip packed with savory beef, melty cheddar, and a spicy kick from chilies. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or any occasion where you want a crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 3.5 oz)
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1–2 teaspoons chili powder (to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1/2 cup half-and-half or whole milk
  • 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional)
  • Tortilla chips, for serving
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat, leaving a little for flavor.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for another minute. If mixture looks dry, add a splash of water or beef broth.
  4. In a medium saucepan over low heat, add cubed Velveeta and shredded cheddar. Pour in half-and-half or milk. Stir frequently until cheese is melted and smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Stir in Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies and diced jalapeño (if using). Cook together for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
  6. Carefully fold the beef mixture into the cheese base. Stir gently until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Transfer dip to a serving bowl or slow cooker set on ‘warm.’ Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Serve hot with tortilla chips.

Notes

If queso is too thick, stir in a splash more milk; if too thin, add extra cheddar. For extra heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce on top. To keep dip smooth at parties, serve in a slow cooker set to ‘warm’ and stir every 30 minutes. Prep beef mixture ahead for easy party timing. For vegetarian, use plant-based crumbles or black beans. Double-check canned tomatoes and spices for gluten-free assurance.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso, party dip, ground beef, chili con queso, cheese dip, Tex-Mex, appetizer, game day, creamy dip, easy recipe

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/creamy-chili-con-queso-with-ground-beef-best-party-dip-recipe/