This creamy cottage cheese queso is so delicious! The best I love is it is easy to make, takes no time and adds an extra bit of protein to my day! Serve it protein tortilla chips or toasted low carb bread croutons. Plus, did I mention the cheesy goodness? I challenge you not to love this cheesy gooey protein-packed goodness!
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A mans hand holding a protein chip over a large bowl of cottage cheese queso.

Cottage Cheese Queso is a delicious, creamy cheese dip recipe that is not only super-yum but healthy too! Cottage cheese is so hot right now, isn’t it! You will find a viral Tiktok recipe or two, are very likely, cottage cheese recipes. Haha! Why? I guess mainly that cottage cheese is a good source of protein and still low calorie. In any case, this cottage cheese queso recipe is so good. Healthy or not, you will love it!

This high protein queso recipe is a lighter alternative to traditional queso dip, making it perfect for those who want a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

The blend of cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella, and taco seasoning creates a versatile dip that is easy meal prep or a quick meal or dip ready in just 5 minutes! Winner winner!

Also, try our Ranch Cottage Cheese Dip or Cucumber Cottage Cheese Salad

What You Will Love about this Recipe

  • VERSATILE – Most cottage cheese dishes are super versatile, and this one is not exception. Add to meal plans as an easy dip with vegetables or protein. Try it with crispy Chicken Skin Chips or seasoned crackers. Serve it with extra protein for easy dinners. Or fill low carb buns or a cob loaf with it when entertaining.
  • HEALTHY – I love it because it is low carb, low calorie, and high protein. It suits my preferred eating style with the Fed Up Fast 4.0 Meal Plan, whether I am carb cycling or even during the low carb days.
Labelled ingredients for a cottage cheese queso recipe.

The Ingredients

  • Shredded Cheese – use any of your favourite shredded cheese. I love using a combination of mozzarella, Mexican cheddar, and yellow cheddar.
  • Cottage Cheese – I love the high protein cottage cheese options available at the supermarket. If possible, I always select the high protein option for all my cottage cheese recipes. You can use low fat cottage cheese if you prefer. Alternatively, ricotta or cream cheese can be used as well.
  • Seasoning – I use Peri Peri Seasoning or I use Taco Seasoning. Other tasty options could include Ranch seasoning, Fajita seasoning, or even Cajun Queso..

How To Make Cottage Cheese Queso

Chopped cottage cheese and cheese in a Thermomix bowl.
Melted cheese sauce in a saucepan.

Step 1. Place one cup cottage cheese, half a cup of shredded cheddar and seasoning into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 2. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat (or microwave), stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the queso is heated through. Once heated through, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

A bowl of cottage cheese sauce in a bowl with a hand dipping a protein chip.

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Healthy Queso Cottage Cheese Recipe Options

Flavor Variations:

  1. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  2. Smoky Queso Use smoked cheddar and add a dash of smoked paprika. So good!
  3. Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped fresh cilantro or chives for a burst of fresh flavour.
  4. Garlic Lover’s: Add minced garlic or garlic powder for a robust, garlicky taste.
  5. As alternatives we also have Keto Cheese Sauce or Chili Con Queso recipes as well for you try.

Ways to Cook It:

  1. Conventional Method:
    • Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth.
    • Heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until fully melted and heated through.
  2. Microwave Method:
    • Blend ingredients until smooth.
    • Microwave in a microwave safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted and heated through.
  3. Thermomix Method:
    • Place all ingredients into the Thermomix and mix for 30 seconds/speed 6.
    • Cook for 5 minutes at 90°C on speed 2, then adjust seasoning as needed.

How To Serve Cottage Cheese Queso

This cottage cheese dish is incredibly versatile and can be served with:

  • Tortilla Chips: Classic and always a hit. For those of us following the keto diet, make our incredible Homemade Protein Chips for a healthy higher protein option! Pour over some delicious roasted guajillo salsa and you have my kind of meal going on!
  • Fresh Vegetables: Try bell pepper strips, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks. Try it with Roasted Cauliflower Salad with built-in cauliflower dippers.
  • Nachos: Pour over nachos for a healthier cheesy topping that just tastes delish. Try them topped with an easy chili, chilli con carne, or Mexican shredded chicken.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the shredded cheddar or mozzarella with any meltable cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy twist.

Is Cottage Cheese Queso healthy?

Cottage Cheese Queso is a healthier alternative to traditional queso or cheese sauce because it is lower in fat and calories while still providing protein and calcium.

Can I make Cottage Cheese Queso ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving to restore its creamy texture.

Protein chips in a bowl of queso with a sprinkling of parsley.

Next Recipes to Try

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Cottage Cheese Queso in a bowl with a corn chip coated in it.

Cottage Cheese Queso

This creamy cottage cheese queso is so delicious! The best I love is it is easy to make, takes no time and adds an extra bit of protein to my day! Serve it protein tortilla chips or toasted low carb bread croutons. Plus, did I mention the cheesy goodness? I challenge you not to love this cheesy gooey protein-packed goodness!
5 from 25 votes!
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Course: Dips and Spreads
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free
Recipe Category: Low Carb
Calories: 109kcal
Author: Megan Ellam
Servings: 4 serves
Tap or hover over number to scale ingredients
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Equipment

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Ingredients 

  • 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) shredded cheddar or mozzarella
  • 2 teaspoons Taco Seasoning

Instructions

CONVENTIONAL METHOD

  • Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  • Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat (or microwave), stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the queso is heated through.
  • Once heated through, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Serve warm with tortilla chips or your favorite dipping vegetables.

THERMOMIX COTTAGE CHEESE QUESO

  • Place all ingredients into the mixer; mix 30 sec/speed 6.
  • Scrape down sides of bowl; cook 5 min/90°C/speed 2.
  • Once heated through, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Serve warm with tortilla chips or your favorite dipping vegetables.

Notes

Storage Tips
Store any leftover cottage cheese queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the queso gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
Opt for low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese, or high protein cottage cheese, based on your dietary preferences. Ricotta or quark can be used instead.
Experiment with different types of shredded cheese for variation, such as pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
Customize the flavour by using different seasoning blends like Fajita Seasoning, Italian Seasoning, Cajun Seasoning, or chili powder instead of taco seasoning.
Alternative Cooking Tips
If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the cottage first until you achieve a fine whipped cottage cheese cream texture. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños, chipotles in adobo, or a dash of hot sauce to the queso mixture.
Things to Watch When Making
Be careful not to overheat the queso, as it can become too thick or grainy. Keep the heat on medium-low and stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Chef’s Tips
Get creative with your toppings! Try diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of guacamole to garnish your cottage cheese queso. Drizzle with sauce like Cilantro Chimichurri, Lemon Gremolata, or Basil Pesto. To enhance the flavour, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a splash of hot salsa before serving. Don’t hesitate to double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings – this cottage cheese queso is always a hit and disappears fast!

Your Own Notes

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Nutrition

Serving: 1serve | Calories: 109kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 262mg | Potassium: 65mg | Fiber: 0.01g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 220IU | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 143mg | Iron: 0.1mg | Magnesium: 8mg | Net Carbs: 2g
Tried this recipe?Mention @meganellam or tag #madcreations!

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18 responses to “3 Ingredient Cottage Cheese Queso”

  1. Erin

    5 stars
    I was doubtful because this had so few ingredients, but it was super easy and delicious! I wanted to eat the whole thing myself. 😆

    Reply
  2. Alex

    5 stars
    This queso was perfect! I made it for a party and everyone wanted to know where I got it. I’ll be making it again soon! Thank you.

    Reply
  3. Molly Kumar

    5 stars
    This was so easy to make and super yummm!!! My family loved it and we could not believe cottage cheese could taste so good as queso. Fabulous recipe

    Reply
  4. Dennis

    5 stars
    What a perfectly delicious queso! I would have never thought of using cottage cheese to make it.

    Reply
  5. Jordan

    5 stars
    I’ve been on a major cottage cheese kick lately but I haven’t tried queso! Love how easy this is to make. You can’t beat a 3 ingredient recipe!

    Reply
  6. Kathryn

    5 stars
    Who knew cottage cheese could make such a delicious dip!? This was incredible and way too easy. I’m craving this again already!

    Reply
  7. Veronika

    5 stars
    Who knew you could make queso with cottage cheese and in so little time! It was so creamy and the perfect last minute party dip!

    Reply
  8. Andi

    5 stars
    Oh my gosh! I love love this recipe! Not buying any dips or cheese sauce from store. This is healthy! Thanks for this.

    Reply
  9. Lexie

    5 stars
    I made this queso using the microwave method, and it was so easy and quick. Added some smoked cheddar and smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, and it paired perfectly with my favorite raw veggie sticks.

    Reply
  10. Lana

    5 stars
    This was so dang good! I’d have never thought of using cottage cheese for queso, but it works so well. I added a few diced jalapenos and served it with plain chips. There wasn’t even a drop leftover 😊.

    Reply
  11. chhavi

    5 stars
    this came out so well! made this for my party and it was a hit!

    Reply
  12. Stephanie

    5 stars
    So this was amazing, I never thought of using cottage cheese to make queso, this was so easy to make too!

    Reply
  13. Pat Q

    5 stars
    I so appreciate recipes with cottage cheese. I cook for my daughter as well as hubby and I and we need amped up protein foods. This recipe is a dressing for a taco/fajita bowl we love to make. Yummy!

    Reply
  14. Cathleen

    5 stars
    I’ve never pinned a recipe so fast. This sounds amazing, thank you so much for sharing 🙂

    Reply
  15. Juyali

    5 stars
    oh wow. This queso was so creamy, savory and good! I was intriguided by the healthy twist with the cottage cheese. Very good!

    Reply
  16. Yu

    5 stars
    You are right about preparing ahead of time; it saved me so much time. Most importantly, this cottage cheese queso turned out creamy and super delicious! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  17. Krystel

    5 stars
    A great twist on your usual cheese queso!

    Reply
  18. Ria

    5 stars
    The whole family loved it. So easy and very tasty.

    Reply
5 from 25 votes (8 ratings without comment)

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