Crock Pot Smoked Queso

This Crock Pot Smoked Queso Dip is your go-to appetizer for game days, parties, or any casual get-together where everyone loves a creamy, cheesy, smoky kick. It captures all the rich flavors of smoky queso without the hassle of using an actual smoker. Plus, it stays warm in the slow cooker so guests can dip away at their leisure.

I made this recipe during a family movie night and now it’s a tradition whenever friends come over. The smoky flavor combined with creamy cheese is always a crowd-pleaser and disappears within minutes.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: provides a hearty, meaty base but feel free to substitute with chorizo or keep it vegetarian
• Taco seasoning packet: adds authentic taco flavor homemade blend works great too for controlling salt and spice
• Velveeta cheese: melts smoothly into a creamy texture that binds the dip perfectly look for the classic yellow block for best results
• Diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel): brings a mild zest and slight heat you can substitute with regular diced tomatoes if you want less spice
• Colby Jack cheese: adds a melty, slightly sharp layer of flavor Pepper Jack works well if you like extra spice
• Cream cheese: key for a velvety, rich consistency that balances the sharper cheeses
• Pickled jalapeños: provide tang and heat adjust amount based on your tolerance for spice
• Milk: thins the cheese blend and ensures a smooth, dip-able texture
• Fresh garlic cloves: freshly minced for the best aromatic punch but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch
• Liquid smoke: the magic ingredient for authentic smoky flavor without a smoker start with a small amount and add up to taste

Instructions

Sear the Ground Beef:

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes until browned and no pink remains. Break it up into small crumbles as it cooks for even texture. Drain excess grease to keep the dip from getting oily.

Mix in Taco Seasoning:

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly unlocking all the warm spices that define the dip’s flavor.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

Transfer the seasoned ground beef into a 6 to 8-quart slow cooker. Add Velveeta cut into cubes diced tomatoes with green chiles shredded Colby Jack cheese cream cheese chopped pickled jalapeños milk minced garlic and liquid smoke.

Cook Low and Stir Often:

Set the slow cooker on low heat for 2 hours. Stir the mixture every 15 minutes to prevent burning and help the cheeses melt uniformly into a creamy dip.

Serve Warm:

When the cheese is completely melted and the dip is smooth serve it immediately preferably straight from the slow cooker to keep it gooey and warm as people snack.

My favorite ingredient has to be the liquid smoke because it transforms this dip from ordinary to unforgettable smoky goodness without needing a smoker. One time I brought this to a potluck and people kept coming back for more guessing all sorts of complex techniques were involved when really it was just that simple drizzle of liquid smoke.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating use the microwave in short increments stirring between to maintain that perfect creamy texture. For longer storage freeze the queso dip for up to three months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a vegetarian version simply omit the ground beef or swap it with cooked beans or plant-based meat alternatives. For a milder dip use regular diced tomatoes instead of Rotel and leave out the jalapeños. If you cannot find Velveeta a mix of processed cheese slices and cream cheese can work in a pinch but expect slight changes in texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dip pairs beautifully with sturdy tortilla chips for scooping but also works as a sauce for baked potatoes steamed veggies or even dolloped onto tacos and burritos for extra cheesy indulgence. Keep a bowl out at casual gatherings and watch it disappear quickly.

Serve warm straight from the slow cooker for best texture. It’s an easy crowd pleaser.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How should I keep the dip warm and creamy?

Keep the dip on the slow cooker's warm setting and stir every 15 minutes to avoid sticking or burning.

→ Is the smoky flavor essential?

Liquid smoke adds the signature smoky taste, but you can omit it for a milder cheese blend without losing creaminess.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness level?

Use regular diced tomatoes or mild jalapeños for less heat, or add hot Rotel and extra taco seasoning to increase spice.

→ What alternatives exist for the ground beef?

Try chorizo, sausage, or ground turkey, or leave the meat out altogether for a different twist.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What's the best way to reheat the dip?

Reheat using a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creaminess and prevent burning.