3 Ingredient Cottage Cheese Queso (Viral TikTok Recipe)

If you’re a queso lover but looking for a high-protein, creamy alternative to traditional cheese dips, this Cottage Cheese Queso recipe is about to become your new obsession. Packed with protein, full of rich, cheesy flavor, and unbelievably easy to make, this viral TikTok recipe is the answer to your cravings. ✨

_{This post may contain affiliate links, please see our privacy policy for details.}

Unlike traditional queso dip loaded with heavy cream and processed cheese, this cottage cheese queso recipe is made with protein-packed cottage cheese, shredded cheese, and a healthy taco seasoning.

Whether you’re scooping it up with chips, drizzling it over tacos, or using it as a dip for fresh veggies, this microwave queso dip is quick, easy, and seriously delicious. Plus, it requires just three simple ingredients and minimal effort. So grab your microwave-safe bowl and let’s make some cheesy, protein-packed magic!

How to Make Cottage Cheese Queso

Making this cheese queso recipe is as simple as gathering your 3 ingredients—blend, heat, & serve!

Ingredients

• 2 Cups Cottage Cheese 
• 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese
• 2 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning

Step-By-Step

Blend the Ingredients: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheese, and taco seasoning. Blend until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy. If needed, scrape down the sides to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Heat the Queso: Transfer the cottage cheese mixture to a microwave-safe bowl and sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is hot.

Stir & Add Toppings: Give the queso dip a good stir to evenly combine the melted cheese. Then, top with chopped green onions, red bell peppers, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Pair this creamy, high-protein queso with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or drizzle it over your favorite tacos and nachos. It’s best enjoyed warm, so dig in right away!

Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Queso

• Don’t Skip the Blending: Blending the cottage cheese smooths out its naturally grainy texture, making it silky and creamy.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try a mix of cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese even feta cheese for a balanced, slightly spicy flavor.
• Add a Splash of Milk: If your queso dip feels too thick, stir in a tablespoon of water or milk of choice to loosen it up.
• Make It on the Stovetop: Prefer not to use the microwave? Heat the blended mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the cheese melts.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Queso

• High in Protein: Thanks to cottage cheese, this dip is packed with protein, making it a great alternative to traditional cheese sauces.
• Super Creamy & Cheesy: The combination of cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese creates a luxuriously smooth texture.
• Quick & Easy: This microwave queso recipe comes together in just a few minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
• Customizable: Add pepper jack cheese for extra spice, mix in some salsa, or sprinkle in chopped cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Healthier Than Traditional Queso: No heavy cream, no artificial cheese—just pure, simple ingredients with better-for-you benefits.

What to Serve with Cottage Cheese Queso

This cheesy, high-protein dip isn’t just for chips, so ere are some delish ways to enjoy it!!

With Grain Free Chips: The classic way to serve queso. Choose blue corn or grain-free chips for variety.

As a Topping for Tacos: Drizzle this creamy cheese queso over tacos for an extra cheesy bite.

With Veggies: Dip bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, or carrots for a fresh and healthy snack.

Over Nachos: Pour it over a plate of loaded nachos for the ultimate comfort food.

On a Baked Potato: Swap out sour cream for a cheesy, protein-rich topping.

With Scrambled Eggs: Stir into eggs for a creamy, cheesy breakfast upgrade.

Optional Toppings

• Diced red bell pepper – Adds color and crunch.
• Chopped green onions – Brings freshness and a slight bite.
• Cilantro – For a bright, herby finish.
• Salsa or diced jalapeños – If you love heat!

Alternative Ingredients

Cottage cheese queso is easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Simple swaps can change the flavor, texture, and even the nutritional value.

For a creamier texture, full-fat cottage cheese works best, but if you’re looking for a different base, ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt can be great alternatives. Those following a dairy-free diet can try plant-based cottage cheese or blended silken tofu for a similar consistency.

Cheddar cheese adds a classic, familiar taste, but you don’t have to stop there. Pepper jack, Monterey jack, Colby jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all work well. If you want a richer, smoother dip, a little cream cheese or Velveeta can enhance the texture. For a bolder, more complex flavor, smoked gouda or sharp white cheddar are great choices.

Taco seasoning keeps things simple, but you can easily mix up your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. For a smoky, slightly spicy kick, a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder does the trick. If you like heat, adding hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños can take the spice level up a notch.

For extra flavor and texture, stir in diced tomatoes, green chilies, or roasted red peppers. If you want to make it heartier, mix in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans. Fresh toppings like cilantro or green onions add brightness and a pop of color.

There are endless ways to enjoy this cottage cheese queso.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cottage cheese queso healthy?
Yes! Cottage cheese queso is a high-protein alternative to traditional queso. Since cottage cheese is naturally lower in fat and high in protein, this dip is a more nutritious option compared to processed cheese sauces.

Does cottage cheese melt like regular cheese?
Cottage cheese doesn’t melt the same way as cheddar or pepper jack cheese, but blending it smooth and heating it with shredded cheese creates a creamy, queso-like consistency.

Can I make cottage cheese queso without a microwave?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can heat the blended cottage cheese mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.

What kind of cheese works best for cottage cheese queso?
Cheddar cheese is a great option, but you can also use pepper jack cheese, Monterey jack, or Colby jack for extra flavor. If you like spicy queso, go for pepper jack or add diced jalapeños.

How can I make my cottage cheese queso smoother?
For the creamiest texture, blend the cottage cheese well before heating. A high-speed blender or food processor will eliminate the graininess and create a smooth, melty dip.

What can I serve with cottage cheese queso?
This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, crackers, or even as a topping for tacos, nachos, and baked potatoes.

Can I make a dairy-free version of cottage cheese queso?
A dairy-free version is possible using plant-based cottage cheese and vegan shredded cheese, but the texture and flavor may vary.

Can I add extra seasoning or mix-ins to the queso?
Definitely! You can customize the flavor by adding salsa, diced tomatoes, green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, or hot sauce for extra spice.

What’s the best way to store and reheat cottage cheese queso?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds.

Enjoy!

If you’re looking for a high-protein alternative to traditional queso, this Cottage Cheese Queso is a great option. It’s smooth, creamy, and comes together in just a few minutes. Whether you’re making a quick snack, prepping for a party, or want a lighter take on queso, this recipe is worth trying.

With just three simple ingredients—cottage cheese, shredded cheese, and taco seasoning—you can create a flavorful dip that’s so delicious and easy to make. Blend, heat, and enjoy! Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy