Insanely Creamy High Protein Queso

There’s nothing better than margaritas & queso with your girlfriends, and this high protein queso recipe is the perfect way to sneak in extra protein during girls’ night. This recipe is simple to make and only requires a few ingredients.

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I’m more of a salsa or guacamole gal. However, I know queso is usually the star of the show for most people. My husband could eat queso every day and I know all my girlfriends would choose queso over other dip options. I haven’t been a huge fan mainly because of the calories that it packs. To me, it wasn’t worth the calories when I enjoyed salsa more than queso. But if queso was a bit healthier and higher protein, I might be more inclined to dive in. So, today I give you a high-protein option. I promise they will not notice the difference

In this recipe, I use my salt-free Mexican spice blend from my spice company – The Spice Girl Kitchen. I’m biased because it is, after all, my spice recipe and the best salt-free Mexican seasoning on the market. But feel free to use whatever taco seasoning you have on hand.

In this blog, we will dive into all things queso, discuss equipment needs, break down the nutritional information, and discuss storage & reheating information. Plus, you will gain some tips on how to keep your queso warm during a party!

This post is all about High Protein Queso!

All About Queso

“Queso” means cheese in Spanish. Traditional queso typically includes ingredients like melted cheese, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. It has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries! It originated as a simple cheese sauce but has evolved into countless variations.

I don’t know about you, but I think I’m not usually a fan of queso because most Americanized Mexican restaurants use canned cheese that I can only compare to melted plastic. Seriously, it grosses me out. I’m pretty sure it’s 90% plastic, 10% cheese. With that being said, I can get on board with REAL queso with actual flavor from time to time.

I know some of you may be reading this thinking to yourself – this chick doesn’t like queso?! Well, it’s not that I don’t like it (when it’s done right), it’s just that it hasn’t been worth the calories to me. I knew if I overindulged in queso, I wouldn’t be feeling great about it later. Plus, I always like to save room for dessert; if I overdo it on chips and queso, I won’t have space for dessert. So really, my opting out of queso most of the time is mostly because I am planning to opt in to dessert later.

However, this version of queso that I will be showing you today is a version I am happy to dive into (because it has higher protein & lower fat compared to regular queso). I know I can feel better about my choice, sneak in some extra protein, and not feel quite so heavy later.

Equipment Breakdown

This recipe only requires a food processor and a microwave! I’m going to assume that if you are reading this blog, you probably have a microwave. If not, you can use a small pot stovetop on low heat and stir frequently until all the ingredients melt together.

• Food processor or blender: I find it’s easier to use a food processor over a blender because you will have to pause while blending to scrape down the sides more frequently. Both will work, but I find a food processor is less tedious because you don’t have to stop to scrape down the sides as often.
• Microwave or stovetop: If you are a fan of keeping dishes to a minimum, I recommend placing everything in a microwave-safe bowl and microwaving on high for 90-120 seconds (stirring halfway through). If you don’t want to use the microwave, you can use a small pot over medium heat and stir the queso frequently until everything melts together.

Keep it hot during a party

If you are making a multi-batch of this recipe and want to keep it warm for a party, I recommend using a slow cooker on the warm setting. Keep it covered when it’s not being eaten so it doesn’t dry out, and stir occasionally so it doesn’t form a film on top.

Nutritional Breakdown

This recipe is high protein and low carb! Here are the basic macros per serving for this recipe (without any dipping agents):

• 134 calories
• 9 grams of fat
• 3.5 grams of carbs (0 grams of fiber)
• 10 grams of protein

If you want to keep it low-carb, you could serve this queso with crunchy raw veggies like bell peppers, carrot sticks, kale chips, or celery. Or you could opt for a “healthified” version of tortilla chips, such as Beanitos. Of course, you always have the option of serving this with your favorite tortilla chip!

You Might Also Like

• Beef & Bean Enchilada Casserole
• One Pot Taco Soup
• Honey Lime Shrimp Taco Bowl
• Barbacoa Street Tacos

OR click here for the entire Mexican Category!

Storage & Reheating Information

Store

Fridge: Queso is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Not recommended as freezing queso will alter the texture and quality when thawed.

Reheat

Microwave: Reheat in the microwave on high for 60-120 seconds or until warmed through. Stir halfway through.

Stovetop: Use a low heat setting and stir the queso frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. 

This post was all about High Protein Queso!

Did you make this recipe? Make sure to tag me @thespicegirlkitchen_ on Instagram or @thespicegirlkitchen on TikTok! I love seeing your recreations! I will be your ultimate hype woman!

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