Crock Pot Smoked Queso

This Crock Pot Smoked Queso Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and meaty appetizer perfect for any gathering. It captures the smoky flavor of traditional smoked queso without needing a smoker, making it super easy and convenient to prepare in your slow cooker. Whether for game day, parties, or family get togethers, this dip is sure to be devoured quickly.

I first made this queso on a chilly evening when we had friends over and it was an instant hit. Since then, it’s become a go to recipe whenever we want something indulgent that everyone loves.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives the dip a meaty punch, but you can substitute with chorizo, sausage, or skip for a vegetarian version
• Taco seasoning packet: adds a robust Mexican-inspired flavor, or make your own seasoning blend for control
• Velveeta cheese: essential for that smooth, melty texture; look for a loaf for easy melting
• Diced tomatoes with green chiles: Rotel is ideal for a little spice and texture; petite diced tomatoes work too
• Colby Jack cheese: helps with melt and adds mild sharpness, swap Pepper Jack for more bite
• Cream cheese: boosts creaminess and richness, a must for silky queso
• Pickled jalapenos: provide heat and tang, choose mild or spicy based on preference
• Milk: creates the perfect consistency, use whole milk for creamier dip
• Garlic cloves: fresh minced garlic brings vibrant flavor; jarred works in a pinch
• Liquid smoke: the secret ingredient for smoky depth without a smoker, start with a small amount and adjust

Instructions

Sauté the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet over medium to medium high heat, brown the ground beef by breaking it up into small crumbles. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until no pink remains. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Drain off any excess grease to prevent the dip from being too oily.

Add the Taco Seasoning:

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Stir well to coat all the meat with the spices, integrating the flavors. This step infuses the meat with the classic taco flavor foundation.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

Transfer the seasoned beef into your 6 to 8 quart slow cooker. Add all the cheeses including Velveeta, Colby Jack, and cream cheese. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chiles, pickled jalapenos, milk, minced garlic, and liquid smoke. Stir everything thoroughly to combine all the components evenly.

Cook Low and Slow:

Set your slow cooker to the low heat setting. Let the queso dip cook for 2 hours. Every 15 minutes, give it a good stir to prevent the cheese from sticking to the sides and burning. The heat will gradually melt the cheeses into a smooth, creamy dip.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the cheese is fully melted and the dip is creamy and cohesive, it is ready to serve. Keep the crock pot on warm during your gathering so guests can enjoy it easily. Stir occasionally to maintain creamy texture.

My favorite ingredient in this dip has to be the pickled jalapenos. They add a unique tangy heat that really wakes up the creamy cheese and beef. One memorable time my family devoured an entire batch during a holiday party before I even got a chance to taste it myself!

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave, stirring every minute or so, to keep it smooth and prevent burning. You can freeze portions in freezer safe containers if you want to make your next party easier.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a lighter dip. Use regular diced tomatoes without chilies if you want less spice. Switch Velveeta for a combination of cheddar and cream cheese though you may lose some smoothness. Mild banana peppers can stand in for jalapenos if you want less heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dip with sturdy tortilla chips or warm pita wedges for scooping. Try topping it with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. It also makes a great filling for loaded nachos or stuffed into baked potatoes.

This slow cooker smoked queso dip is effortless and party ready. Adjust the heat and liquid smoke to suit your taste.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How should I serve this queso?

Keep it warm on the slow cooker’s low setting and stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

→ Is liquid smoke necessary for the flavor?

Liquid smoke adds authentic smokiness, but you can omit it for a milder taste while keeping creaminess intact.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Use mild jalapeños or regular diced tomatoes for less heat, or add hot Rotel and extra taco seasoning to increase spice.

→ What alternatives exist for the ground beef?

Try chorizo, sausage, ground turkey, or omit meat altogether for a vegetarian variation.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in a microwave, stirring between intervals to avoid burning.