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Savory Smoked Gouda Queso with Caramelized Onion and Chorizo

smoked gouda queso - featured image

A rich, smoky, and creamy queso dip featuring slow-caramelized onions, crispy chorizo, and melted smoked Gouda cheese. Perfect for casual gatherings or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
  • 6 ounces chorizo sausage, casing removed
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, for 25-30 minutes until deep golden brown and fragrant.
  2. Heat the same skillet over medium heat (wipe clean if needed). Add chorizo, breaking into small pieces. Cook 6-8 minutes until browned and crisp. Remove with slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Stir in garlic and jalapeño, cooking 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Slowly whisk in whole milk, stirring until mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low and gradually add shredded smoked Gouda, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
  7. Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
  8. Fold caramelized onions and crisp chorizo into queso, stirring gently to combine.
  9. Transfer to serving bowl, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve warm with tortilla chips or preferred dippers.

Notes

Caramelize onions low and slow to develop deep sweetness. Shred smoked Gouda fresh for best melting. Use a roux to avoid floury taste. Stir in a splash of milk if queso thickens too much when reheating. For vegetarian version, omit chorizo and add smoky roasted peppers.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso, smoked Gouda, caramelized onion, chorizo, dip, appetizer, creamy, smoky, spicy