Craving that mouthwatering restaurant-style queso that'll make your taste buds dance? Look no further! Our Chili's Copycat Skillet Queso is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a bubbling, creamy cheese dip packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef and a zesty kick that'll have everyone at your gathering begging for more. This isn't just another dip – it's a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary snack time into a culinary adventure you won't forget!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of ground beef, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, and 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning.
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook the beef until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
- Once the ground beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will help keep your queso from becoming too greasy.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain) to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture and stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the beef and tomatoes. Allow this to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the mixture.
- Once the cream cheese is melted, gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Once the queso is well combined and creamy, remove the skillet from heat. Serve immediately with tortilla chips for dipping.
- Enjoy your Chili's Copycat Skillet Queso while it's hot, and feel free to garnish with additional toppings like chopped green onions, jalapeños, or cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ground beef for the best flavor profile.
- Drain excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy texture.
- Stir continuously when adding cream cheese to ensure smooth melting.
- Keep the heat low when incorporating cheeses to prevent scorching.
- For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately for the most luxurious, creamy consistency.
- If the queso thickens while sitting, reheat gently and stir in a splash of milk to restore its silky texture.
- For a more authentic restaurant-style presentation, serve in a cast-iron skillet if possible.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
