This easy cottage cheese queso dip is incredibly delicious, packed with protein, and requires just four ingredients! 

Creamy and flavorful, it takes less than 5 minutes to whip up, making it the perfect high-protein snack. Enjoy it with tortilla chips, on top of nachos, or drizzled over your favorite tacos.

About this queso dip

I first came across a version of this recipe using green chilies on social media and knew I had to create my own high-protein cottage cheese queso. Since then, it’s become a go-to recipe in my kitchen—I even eat this cold right out of the fridge (don’t judge, haha!)

This queso might not be traditional, but the best part is the protein boost from the cottage cheese, delivering 14 grams of protein per serving. 

It’s a great way to stay fuller longer and hit your protein goals, all while enjoying a cheesy dip that’s smooth and flavorful. And there are many times

Even if you’re not a cottage cheese fan, you’ll be surprised by how silky and delicious this dip is. The cottage cheese blends so smoothly that you won’t even notice it’s there! 

This dip is a healthier alternative to traditional queso, and its versatility makes it perfect as a dip for tortilla chips, a cheese sauce for tacos or burrito bowls, or even a topping for nachos. 

Whether you’re serving it for game day or enjoying it as a quick snack, this queso is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

You’ll only need four simple ingredients to make this high-protein cottage cheese queso:

1. Cottage cheese: The key ingredient! I recommend using reduced-fat or full-fat cottage cheese for the best creamy texture.

2. Shredded Mexican blend cheese: Full-fat cheese adds richness and flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.

3. Salsa: Use jarred or fresh salsa or try Rotel with green chilies for a spicier kick.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Queso

Combine cottage cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, and green chilies in a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Spice it up: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper for extra heat. Swap out the salsa for a can of Rotel tomatoes and chilies
  • Change the cheese: Swap the Mexican blend for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese.
  • Nutritional yeast: For a dairy-free version, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

This queso dip isn’t just for tortilla chips—serve it with veggies or make easy high-protein nachos with ground beef and shredded cheese.

Recipe FAQ

Can you store and reheat leftovers?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat as needed to maintain the best texture.

Can I use fat-free cottage cheese?

You can, but fat-free cottage cheese is less creamy and may separate when heated. I have used full-fat version, and it came out extra cream and smooth.

What should I serve it with?  

Pair your queso dip with crispy tortilla chips, or try it on tacos, nachos, or veggies for a healthy, high-protein snack.

High-Protein Nacho Dip

Ingredients

  

  • 16 oz Cottage cheese full fat or 4%
  • 1-2 cups shredded cheese
  • 1 cup salsa

Instructions

 

  • Place the cottage cheese, salsa and shredded cheese into a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend on high until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or any other seasonings as desired.

    To heat on the stovetop

    Transfer the cheese dip to a small saucepan and heat over low, stirring frequently until warmed through. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the dip to separate and lose its creamy consistency.

    To heat in the microwave:

    In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the cheese in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until it's just hot. Be careful not to microwave for too long or too quickly, as this can cause separation and affect the creaminess.

    Serve with your favorite tortilla chips, tacos, or nachos, and enjoy!