Blend Together: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese and taco seasoning. Blend until the mixture is beautifully smooth and creamy, with a perfect consistency for dipping.
Transfer Mixture: Carefully transfer the blended mixture to a microwave-safe bowl. Gently fold in the shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese, making sure it incorporates well.
Melt the Cheese: Microwave the bowl in 30-second bursts until the cheese is fully melted, which usually takes about 1 to 1.5 minutes. Stir in between intervals to achieve that delightful creamy texture.
Serve Warm: Once melted, serve the queso warm. Feel free to crown it with fresh toppings like pico de gallo, cilantro, or red onion, and enjoy with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
Notes
Choose the Right Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you're sensitive to heat, start with a small amount of taco seasoning and gradually increase to your taste. You want flavorful, not overwhelming!
Blend Thoroughly: Ensure the cottage cheese is blended until completely smooth. This creates a velvety dip and avoids clumps in your Cottage Cheese Queso.
Reheat with Care: If reheating leftovers, do so gently in the microwave at low power to maintain creaminess; avoid overheating to prevent separation.
Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh pico de gallo, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cilantro can elevate the dish and add freshness.