If you love queso but want a healthier option, this high protein cottage cheese queso is the perfect solution. Made with simple ingredients and packed with lots of protein, this cheesy dip is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying it with your favorite tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or using it as a topping for burrito bowls, this cottage cheese queso dip is a game changer.

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Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe

Uses simple ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare
A high-protein snack that’s a healthier alternative to traditional queso
Made with real shredded cheese for a creamy texture and cheesy goodness
Pairs well with fresh veggies, tortilla chips, or homemade tacos

Ingredients for High Protein Queso Dip

1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat cottage cheese, low-fat cottage cheese, or fat-free cottage cheese all work)
½ cup cheddar cheese (or use a cheese blend like tex mex cheese or mexican blend cheese)
½ cup pepper jack cheese or monterey jack
¼ cup milk (optional for a thinner consistency)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp cumin
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
4 oz diced green chilies (optional)
1 tbsp butter
Optional add-ins: nutritional yeast, cream cheese, homemade taco seasoning, lime juice, or fresh garlic

How to Make High Protein Cottage Cheese Queso

Blend the Cottage Cheese for a Smooth Base

For a creamy texture, start by blending the cup of cottage cheese in a food processor or using an immersion blender. Blend for about 30–60 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any curds. This step is key to achieving a queso-like consistency rather than a chunky cottage cheese dip. If using a regular blender, you may need to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is evenly processed.

Heat and Melt the Cheese

Transfer the blended cottage cheese mixture to a small saucepan and place it over low heat. Stir in the butter and a splash of milk if you want a thinner queso. Stir continuously as the butter melts to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan or scorching.

cottage cheese queso in a skillet accompanied by a whisk

Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese, one handful at a time. Stir gently but consistently, allowing each addition to fully melt before adding more. This gradual melting process ensures a creamy, lump-free texture. If you find the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of additional milk until the desired consistency is reached.

Season and Customize for Maximum Flavor

Once the cheese is fully melted, mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, cumin, and cayenne. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the queso. This combination of seasonings adds a rich depth of flavor that mimics traditional queso while keeping it light and nutritious.

For an extra Tex-Mex kick, fold in the diced green chilies. These add a bit of spice and smokiness that take this queso to the next level. If you love a little heat, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or an extra dash of cayenne.

Serve and Enjoy

Once all the ingredients are combined and the queso is smooth, transfer it to a serving dish while still warm. If you want to keep it warm for longer, use a small crockpot or place it in an oven-safe dish at a low temperature.

Garnish with fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, or an extra sprinkle of homemade taco seasoning. Serve immediately with your favorite tortilla chips, raw veggies, mini bell peppers, or use it as a topping for chicken quesadillas, burrito bowls, or air fryer nachos.

How to Store Leftover Queso

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To reheat, place in a microwave-safe bowl and warm in second increments, stirring between each interval for the best results.
If the queso thickens after chilling, add a splash of milk and stir well before reheating.

Creative Ways to Use This High Protein Queso

This high protein queso dip is more than just a dip—it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate many popular dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

Use it as a creamy topping for burrito bowls, tacos, or loaded nachos
Drizzle over roasted or air fryer potatoes for a cheesy twist
Mix it into scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos for an extra boost of protein
Spread onto a sandwich or wrap in place of mayo or cream cheese
Serve alongside fresh veggies, mini bell peppers, or even as a sauce for grilled chicken

**If you are looking for a creative way to incorporate cottage cheese into a dessert dish try our Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse!

Conclusion

If you’ve seen high protein cottage cheese queso trending on social media, you know there’s a good reason for its popularity. This healthier option delivers all the cheesy goodness of traditional queso without the heavy ingredients. Next time you’re craving a delicious dip, skip the store-bought versions and try this cottage cheese queso recipe instead.