Yes, queso can be healthy — and it’s ready in under 5 minutes.
This Cottage Cheese Queso is the viral TikTok dip that took over social feeds for good reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein without the heaviness of traditional queso. Whether you need a quick after-school snack, a late-night craving fix, or something to impress guests without breaking a sweat, this recipe hits every note.
The best part? You only need three ingredients and one blender to make it happen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild, sharp, or extra sharp)
- ½ teaspoon taco seasoning
Optional Garnishes:
- Pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro
- Salsa or diced tomatoes
- Squeeze of lime
Notes on Ingredients
- Cottage Cheese: Any brand will work since we’re blending it smooth, but choose one you enjoy eating plain — flavor matters more than curd size here.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shred your own from a block for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that dull the texture.
- Taco Seasoning: Use a gourmet blend or your homemade version for a more tailored spice profile.
Instructions
Step 1 — Blend the Cottage Cheese
Add your cottage cheese to a blender (a single-serve works perfectly) and blend until completely smooth. This step is key for achieving that silky queso texture.
Step 2 — Combine & Heat
Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a microwave-safe bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and taco seasoning on top.
Microwave for 1 minute, then stir thoroughly. Continue microwaving in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the queso becomes velvety and fully melted — usually about 2 minutes total.
Step 3 — Serve & Garnish
Top with pico de gallo, salsa, cilantro, or a sprinkle of extra cheese. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, pita crisps, or veggie sticks.
Tips & Tricks
- Smoothness Is Everything: The smoother the blend, the creamier your queso. If it’s still slightly chunky after blending, run it another 15–20 seconds.
- Regular Blender Works Too: A full-size blender does the job, but scrape down the sides to ensure even blending.
- Microwave vs. Stovetop: Prefer the stovetop? Just heat the mixture gently over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Storage & Reheating: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round.
Substitutions & Variations
Make It Your Own
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegan Option: Swap cottage cheese for a plant-based version and cheddar for vegan shreds — texture may vary slightly.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Stir in black beans, corn, or avocado chunks for a heartier dip.
- Extra Creamy: Mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or cream cheese before heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
You can, but the texture and flavor will differ — Greek yogurt gives a tangier, thinner consistency. Cottage cheese provides that classic creamy melt.
How long does Cottage Cheese Queso last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days when sealed and refrigerated. Stir well after reheating to restore smoothness.
Can I freeze this queso?
Not recommended — dairy-based dips can separate after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve warm with tortilla chips, pretzels, veggie sticks, or drizzle it over tacos, burrito bowls, or baked potatoes.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 221
- Protein: 19g
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 960mg
(Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands.)
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Queso
There’s something quietly brilliant about turning a humble tub of cottage cheese into a hot, melty queso dip. It satisfies both the health-conscious and the cheese-obsessed. You get comfort without compromise real protein, real flavor, and real speed.
Once you’ve tried it, you’ll start finding excuses to blend up another batch movie night, post-workout snack, or just because.
So go ahead, grab the blender. Queso’s calling.
Did you make this recipe?
Leave a comment below
Can’t wait to see your version!
Cottage Cheese Queso (High-Protein 3-Ingredient Dip)
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild, sharp, or extra sharp)
- ½ tsp taco seasoning
Instructions
- Blend the Cottage CheeseAdd your cottage cheese to a blender (a single-serve works perfectly) and blend until completely smooth. This step is key for achieving that silky queso texture.
- Combine & HeatTransfer the blended cottage cheese to a microwave-safe bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and taco seasoning on top.Microwave for 1 minute, then stir thoroughly. Continue microwaving in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the queso becomes velvety and fully melted — usually about 2 minutes total.
- Serve & GarnishTop with pico de gallo, salsa, cilantro, or a sprinkle of extra cheese. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, pita crisps, or veggie sticks.
Notes
Notes on Ingredients
- Cottage Cheese: Any brand will work since we’re blending it smooth, but choose one you enjoy eating plain — flavor matters more than curd size here.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shred your own from a block for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that dull the texture.
- Taco Seasoning: Use a gourmet blend or your homemade version for a more tailored spice profile.