Smoked Queso!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Ground Beef (80% lean, browned and drained)
• 2 packages Taco Seasoning (Any brand; use the whole packet per pound of meat)
• 8 oz Vita Cheese (Sharp cheddar style, cut into cubes)
• 8 oz Pepper Jack Cheese (Cut into cubes)
• 8 oz Philadelphia Cream Cheese (Softened, cut into cubes)
• 2 cans Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies (10‑oz cans)
• 1 can Green Chilies (4‑oz can, optional for extra heat)
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (For topping the dip)

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

   Heat a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until fully browned, about 8‑10 minutes. Drain excess fat.

   Time: PT10M

2. Season the Meat

   Stir in the two packages of taco seasoning, add ¼ cup water if needed, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

   Time: PT5M

3. Cube the Cheeses

   While the meat simmers, cut the Vita cheese, pepper jack cheese, and cream cheese into roughly ½‑inch cubes.

   Time: PT5M

4. Preheat the Oven

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 350°F

5. Assemble the Dip

   In a 9x13‑inch baking dish, combine the seasoned beef, all three cheeses, the two cans of Rotel, and the extra can of green chilies. Mix gently to distribute evenly.

   Time: PT5M

6. Add Smoked Paprika

   Sprinkle the smoked paprika evenly over the top of the dip.

   Time: PT1M

7. Bake the Queso

   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are bubbling, about 20‑25 minutes. The top should be lightly browned.

   Time: PT20M

   Temperature: 350°F

8. Serve

   Remove from the oven, let stand 2 minutes, then serve hot with tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or warm tortillas.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

500

Protein

30g

Carbohydrates

12g

Fat

35g

Fiber

2g