Description
This Pumpkin Queso is a creamy, flavorful dip that combines the rich taste of melted cheeses with the warm spices of pumpkin pie seasoning and a hint of spicy chorizo. Perfect as a festive appetizer or party dip, it offers a unique twist on traditional queso with a smooth, savory pumpkin undertone.
Ingredients
Meat
- 6 oz. chorizo
Dairy
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
- 5 slices American cheese, unwrapped and diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Seasonings & Others
- 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 the chorizo: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook 6 oz. of chorizo for 3 to 4 minutes until it turns slightly golden and releases its flavorful oils.
- Add the cheeses and milk: Pour in 1 can (12 oz.) of evaporated milk, add the 5 slices of diced American cheese, 1 cup sharp cheddar, and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese into the saucepan. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon, bringing the mixture up to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer until thickened: Maintain the simmer and keep stirring the mixture constantly until it thickens into a smooth queso consistency, ensuring the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated.
- Add jalapeno brine and spices: Stir in 2 tablespoons of pickled jalapeno brine, then remove the saucepan from heat. Season the queso with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, a dash of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to enhance the flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the pumpkin queso to a serving bowl and enjoy warm with tortilla chips, vegetables, or your favorite dippers.
Notes
- This queso pairs well with tortilla chips, crunchy vegetables, or soft pretzels.
- You can adjust the spiciness by using more or less jalapeno brine.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results and flavor.
- Leftover queso can be refrigerated and gently reheated on the stovetop, stirring to restore creaminess.
- For a vegetarian version, omit chorizo and consider adding smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American