Description

A rich, smoky, and creamy one-pan queso dip made with smoked sausage, sharp cheddar, and cream cheese. This comforting dish is easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and provides a warm, indulgent meal perfect for solo dining or sharing.

Ingredients

Scale

14 oz smoked sausage (kielbasa or similar), sliced into half-moons
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 fresh jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for mild heat)
Corn tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

Slice the smoked sausage into thin half-moons, dice the onion, and mince the garlic and jalapeño.
Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and brown for 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy. Leave about a tablespoon of fat in the pan.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and jalapeño, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Reduce heat to low. Sprinkle cumin and smoked paprika over the mixture and stir for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
Add the softened cream cheese cubes and stir until mostly melted. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce is smooth.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring after each addition until fully melted. Turn off the heat and adjust seasoning if needed.
Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately with warm tortilla chips.

Notes

Grate your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that cause graininess. Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent separation. Do not freeze this dip as the texture will become grainy. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approx. 1/2 cup dip
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 850
Fat: 32
Saturated Fat: 18
Carbohydrates: 25
Fiber: 2
Protein: 18

Keywords: smoked sausage queso, tailgate dip, one-pan recipe, comfort food, cheesy dip, kielbasa dip, easy appetizer, stovetop queso