Can I use cottage cheese with larger curds for this recipe?

Absolutely! Both small and large curd cottage cheese work well in this recipe. Large curds will give you a more textured dip, while small curds create a slightly smoother result. The choice comes down to personal preference.

I'm not a fan of cottage cheese - will I like this dip?

Many cottage cheese skeptics have been converted by this recipe! The taco seasoning and mix-ins transform the cottage cheese, masking its distinctive flavor while preserving its creamy texture. The final result tastes much more like a traditional queso dip than cottage cheese.

Can I make this dip ahead for a party?

This is actually the perfect make-ahead dip! The flavors improve as it sits in the refrigerator, making it ideal for party prep. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance for the best flavor development.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

While traditional queso is defined by its cheese content, you could experiment with dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives and plant-based shredded cheese. The flavor profile will be different, but with the right seasoning adjustments, you can create a similarly delicious dairy-free dip.

Chilled Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe

Description

This chilled cottage cheese queso is a healthy, protein-packed dip featuring creamy cottage cheese, two types of shredded cheese, zesty taco seasoning, and a vibrant mix of toppings like black olives, cilantro, and pickled jalapeños. Quick to prepare and perfect for parties or snacking, it’s a flavorful crowd-pleaser enjoyed with chips or crisp veggies.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Base Ingredients

16 oz. low-fat cottage cheese (Good Culture recommended)
1.5 Tbsp. taco seasoning (Siete brand or homemade)
3/4 cup freshly shredded pepper jack cheese (84g)
3/4 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese (84g)

Mix-ins

2.25 oz. sliced black olives (small can)
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 Tbsp. pickled jalapeños, minced

Optional Toppings

Hot sauce
Extra taco seasoning
Lime juice
Green chiles

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Instructions

Combine Cottage Cheese and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese and taco seasoning. Mix together until the seasoning is evenly incorporated into the cottage cheese. Blending is not required; simply stir until combined.
Add Cheeses and Mix-ins: To the same bowl, add the shredded pepper jack cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced black olives, chopped cilantro, finely chopped red bell pepper, and minced pickled jalapeños. Mix everything thoroughly so the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the queso.
Chill: Cover the bowl and let the queso set in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the dip to become properly chilled for serving.
Serve: Serve the queso cold, garnished with optional toppings such as hot sauce, additional taco seasoning, a squeeze of lime juice, or green chiles. Enjoy with tortilla chips or sliced raw vegetables.

Notes

For a spicy kick, add extra pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Substitute your favorite shredded cheeses as desired.
This recipe is ideal for make-ahead entertaining; prepare up to a day in advance.
Use high-quality cottage cheese for the smoothest texture and best flavor.
Try with carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber rounds for a lower-carb snack.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (~100g)
Calories: 120
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 20mg