Quick and Easy Smoked Queso Recipe
A velvety, smoky blend of cheeses, tomatoes, and spices, this Smoked Queso Recipe delivers crowd-pleasing flavor in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a simple snack that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients
- 1 pound total cheese cheddar + Monterey Jack, shredded
- 1 can about 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
- ½ cup onion finely chopped (optional, sautéed for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño diced (optional, or use more for added heat)
- ¼ –½ cup milk or half-and-half start with ¼ cup
- 1 cup cooked ground turkey or shredded chicken optional
- Salt pepper, and chili powder to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
- (Optional) Sauté onions over medium heat until translucent; add garlic in the last minute.
- Place cheese, sautéed onions, garlic, diced tomatoes with chilies, and any cooked protein in a foil pan.
- Add ¼ cup milk or half-and-half; stir gently.
- Set the pan on the smoker grates, close the lid, and smoke for about 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
- If it becomes too thick, add more milk. Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Once fully melted, remove, let it sit for a minute, and serve warm.
Notes
For a richer taste, shred your own cheese from the block rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Also, ensure any added protein (chicken or turkey) is cooked beforehand to keep it safe and quick.