Cowboy Queso Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 small jalapeno, diced
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 6 ounces beer
• 1 pound processed cheese food (such as Velveeta)
• 3/4 cup shredded pepper Jack cheese
• 1 (15 ounce) can seasoned black beans, drained
• 1 (10 ounce) can mild diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained (such as RO*TEL)
• 1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble the ground beef. Cook and stir until the meat is browned, about 5 minutes. Drain the excess fat.
2. Return the drained beef to the skillet. Add salt, pepper, diced jalapeno, red onion, and beer. Stir well and cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the Velveeta and pepper Jack cheese. Stir occasionally until the cheese is fully melted, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the drained black beans, RO*TEL tomatoes, and black olives (if using). Stir well and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 459
• Total Fat: 26g (34% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 14g (71% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 106mg (35% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1247mg (54% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 21g (8% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 33g (65% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (6% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 392mg (30% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (17% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 674mg (14% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your needs.

The Story Behind Cowboy Queso

Cowboy Queso is a modern twist on traditional Tex-Mex cheese dips, inspired by the hearty meals favored by cowboys in the American Southwest. Unlike simple cheese dips, this recipe incorporates robust flavors and protein-rich ingredients that would sustain ranch hands during long days on the range. The combination of ground beef, beans, and melted cheeses creates a rich, filling dish that reflects the practical, high-energy foods of early frontier life.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is deeply rooted in Texan cuisine but has spread across the Southwestern United States. Regional variations often depend on local chiles, cheeses, and beans. In Texas, Hatch green chiles may be added for a smoky heat, while New Mexican versions may favor a slightly spicier red chile. The use of Velveeta and Pepper Jack cheese is particularly common in Texas-style recipes, providing a creamy, smooth texture that contrasts with the chunkier ingredients like beans and meat.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While many cheese dips, like traditional queso blanco, focus solely on cheese and chiles, Cowboy Queso stands out because it incorporates ground beef, black beans, and a mix of cheeses. This adds both protein and complexity to the flavor. Unlike chili con queso, which is primarily smooth and spicy, Cowboy Queso has a chunky, stick-to-your-ribs texture that makes it almost a meal in itself rather than just an appetizer.

Where Its Typically Served

Cowboy Queso is commonly served at casual gatherings, backyard barbecues, and sports events. Its hearty nature makes it a favorite at Tex-Mex restaurants, often presented in individual cast iron skillets for an authentic cowboy-style experience. It pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or even as a topping for baked potatoes and nachos.

Interesting Facts

• The dish reflects the resourcefulness of early cowboys, using whatever ingredients were on hand to create a satisfying, high-calorie meal.
• Adding beer to the queso is a nod to Texan culinary creativity, enhancing flavor and providing a slight tang to balance the richness of the cheese.
• Cowboy Queso is versatile; you can customize the heat with different types of chiles or make it vegetarian by omitting the beef and adding extra beans and vegetables.
• The name Cowboy Queso emphasizes its hearty, rustic style, distinguishing it from smoother, purely cheese-based dips.
• Despite its indulgent ingredients, it remains a popular dish for entertaining because it is easy to prepare, serves a crowd, and visually impresses when served hot and bubbling.

FAQ about Cowboy Queso Recipe

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