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Easy Smoked Queso Dip with Chorizo: The Best 10-Minute Recipe

smoked queso dip with chorizo - featured image

This Easy Smoked Queso Dip with Chorizo is a quick, foolproof recipe that delivers a creamy, smoky, and spicy dip perfect for game day or any party. Ready in under 10 minutes of active work, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh Mexican chorizo
  • 1 lb Velveeta, cubed
  • 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (Original or Mild), undrained
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225-250°F. Use a mild fruitwood like apple or cherry.
  2. Brown the chorizo in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crumbled and cooked through. Do not drain the fat.
  3. In a 10-inch or 12-inch cast iron skillet, combine the cubed Velveeta, shredded cheddar, undrained Rotel, milk or heavy cream, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir gently.
  4. Spoon the cooked chorizo (with its fat) over the top of the cheese mixture. Do not stir in completely.
  5. Place the skillet on the smoker and smoke for 45 minutes to 1 hour. After 30 minutes, stir to incorporate the chorizo and ensure even melting.
  6. Once the dip is bubbly and melted, carefully remove the skillet from the smoker. Stir until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.

Notes

Don’t over-smoke the queso; 45 minutes to 1 hour is the sweet spot. Shred your own cheddar from a block for the smoothest melt. Do not drain the chorizo fat—it adds flavor and richness. Stir halfway through smoking for even melting. For a milder dip, use Mild Rotel; for more heat, use Hot Rotel or add a diced jalapeño.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked queso, chorizo queso, easy queso, game day dip, smoked cheese dip, 10-minute recipe