Chili Con Ceso
A hearty, cheesy chili dip with savory beef, vegetables, and bold spices, perfect for gatherings and snack times, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger with a little garlic salt and pepper.
- Add the grated onion, chopped green pepper, tomato sauce, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco sauce.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Add the Velveeta cheese and stir until melted.
- Serve hot with Fritos.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving. You can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or increase the Tabasco sauce. Fresh garlic can also enhance the flavor; just sauté it with the hamburger. Serve it with Fritos for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chili Con Queso hot, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro for freshness. It pairs beautifully with Fritos for dipping, or you can serve it alongside a side of Ruby's Bean Dip for a tasty appetizer spread. Consider offering tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or warm tortillas for a complete snack experience. This dish also complements Mexican recipes well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in short intervals, stirring in between, for quick reheating. If it thickens, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Ceso contains roughly 269 calories, with 9g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1019mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili con queso ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving. This dish is great for parties, and making it in advance allows the flavors to meld together even more.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you're looking for an alternative to Velveeta, try a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a similar creamy texture. You can also use a processed cheese food or a cheese dip if you prefer. Just ensure that the cheese melts smoothly into the mixture.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start by using less chili powder and Tabasco sauce, then taste as you go. You can also add more diced green peppers or a mild salsa to balance the heat. For a spicier version, consider adding chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).