Description
Pumpkin Queso is a creamy, flavorful dip combining the richness of melted cheeses with the warm spices of pumpkin pie spice, complemented by spicy chorizo and tangy pickled jalapeno brine. Perfect for game day or a cozy snack, this queso blends traditional Mexican flavors with a seasonal twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 6 oz. chorizo
Dairy
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
- 5 slices American cheese slices, unwrapped and diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar, grated
- 1 cup grated Monterey jack cheese
Other
- 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeno brine
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- A dash of cumin
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Chorizo: In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the chorizo for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s slightly golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally to break it up.
- Add Dairy Ingredients: Pour in the evaporated milk and add the diced American cheese, grated sharp cheddar, and grated Monterey jack cheese to the pan. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon as you bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer and Thicken: Continue stirring as the cheese melts and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency, ensuring the cheeses blend smoothly without burning.
- Incorporate Jalapeno Brine: Add the two tablespoons of pickled jalapeno brine to the mixture, stirring well to combine the spicy tang evenly through the queso.
- Season: Remove the saucepan from heat. Season with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, cumin, and the pumpkin pie spice. Stir thoroughly to distribute all spices evenly throughout the queso.
Notes
- Use mild or spicy chorizo depending on your spice preference.
- If you prefer a smoother queso, you can blend the mixture briefly after cooking.
- The pickled jalapeno brine adds a unique tang; adjust quantity to taste or substitute with fresh jalapenos for a different texture.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or as a topping for tacos and nachos.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chorizo and add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for depth of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
