Craving something cheesy that helps you hit your protein goals? This cottage cheese queso dip is rich, creamy, and secretly packed with 17 grams of protein for the ultimate healthy snack hack.

Viral high-protein cottage cheese queso dip with a woman's hands dipping into the dip with a tortilla chip.

With just 3 ingredients and less than 10 minutes from blender to bowl, it’s the perfect healthy but satisfying dip for busy days or last minute guests. Enjoy it with tortilla chips, chopped veggies, or drizzle over tacos and bowls.

Looking for more easy healthy dips? You’ll love my protein jalapeno popper dip, cottage cheese guacamole, or cottage cheese buffalo chicken dip.

Why you’ll love this viral high-protein dip

  1. Ultra creamy and cheesy: This protein-packed queso tastes rich and indulgent — no one will guess it’s made with cottage cheese.
  2. High-protein upgrade: With 17 grams of protein per serving, it’s more satisfying than your average dip.
  3. Ready in minutes: Just blend and microwave — no stovetop, no fuss, and it’s ready in under 10.

Nutrition highlight from a dietitian

One cup of low-fat cottage cheese packs 24 grams of protein for just 180 calories — making it a super satisfying snack. It’s especially rich in casein, a slow-digesting dairy protein that helps keep you full longer. If you’re trying to eat more protein, save this list of the top high-protein foods.

Key ingredient notes and swaps

Labeled photo of the ingredients in high-protein cottage cheese queso dip, displayed in small bowls on a kitchen counter.
  • Cottage cheese: We’ll blend this for a surprisingly smooth and protein-rich base. I recommend low-fat for the most protein, but full-fat cottage cheese would be delicious too. Don’t use low-fat.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Swap for pepper jack or a Tex-Mex blend for a spicier kick.
  • Taco seasoning: We’re using pre-made taco seasoning to make life easier (and honestly, it tastes best this way). My favorite taco seasoning is by Siete.
  • Toppings: While this dip is made with only three simple ingredients, I recommend topping with store-bought pico de gallo and cilantro for even more flavor and balance.

Scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and detailed recipe.

Variations and dietary restrictions

  • Extra spice — use hot taco seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce before microwaving
  • Lower lactose — use lactose-free cottage cheese and cheddar, if possible
  • Less sodium — compare nutrition labels and choose cottage cheese and taco seasoning with less sodium
  • Gluten-free — use gluten-free taco seasoning (they often contain wheat)

How to make cottage cheese queso

Cottage cheese blended in a small plastic blender cup.

Step 1: Blend cottage cheese until smooth.

Blended cottage cheese with shredded cheddar and taco seasoning in a microwave-safe bowl.

Step 2: Add to microwave-safe bowl with cheddar cheese and taco seasoning.

High-protein cottage cheese queso melted and blended in a microwave-safe glass dish.

Step 3: Microwave and mix occasionally until smooth and melty.

Cottage cheese queso in a small cast iron skillet, topped with pico de gallo and fresh cilantro.

Step 4: Top with pico de gallo and cilantro, and serve immediately!

Top tips for success

  • Blend it well: For the creamiest texture, blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth — no lumps allowed.
  • Watch the heat: Cottage cheese can separate if overheated, so microwave in short bursts and stir halfway through.
  • Make it ahead: Double (or triple) the batch for meal prep or parties. Just reheat gently before serving.

Common questions

Can I make this queso without a microwave?

Absolutely! Instead of warming everything in the microwave, transfer to a small non-stick pan or pot instead. Warm over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep a close eye on your queso dip to make sure it doesn’t burn or over-heat.

What can I serve with cottage cheese queso?

This high-protein queso is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips, potato chips, or crunchy veggies like peppers and cucumbers. You can also use it as a sauce — drizzle over tacos (like these crispy beef tacos or taco cups), spoon onto a breakfast burrito (this protein breakfast burrito is a favorite), or add a creamy boost to salads and bowls.

How long will leftovers last?

Cover leftovers and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. To re-heat, microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until just warmed through.

More healthy dip recipes

Protein Jalapeno Popper Dip
Cowboy Caviar Couscous Salad
Cottage Cheese Guacamole
High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip
No-Mayo Spinach Artichoke Dip

If you tried this recipe, please leave a 🌟 star rating and comment below, and follow me on Instagram!

Viral high-protein cottage cheese queso dip with a woman's hands dipping into the dip with a tortilla chip.
5 from 1 vote

Cottage Cheese Queso

Yield: 2 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
This cottage cheese queso is rich, creamy, and packed with 17g protein. A 3-ingredient, high-protein dip perfect for chips, veggies, or tacos.
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Ingredients
 

Queso

  • 1 cup low fat cottage cheese
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 Tbsp taco seasoning

Toppings

  • pico de gallo
  • cilantro

To Serve

  • tortilla chips or chopped veggies

Equipment

Instructions
 

  • In a blender, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
  • To a microwave safe bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, cheese, and taco seasoning.
  • Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through and melted.
  • To serve, add a generous scoop of pico de gallo on top and a handful of cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips and chopped vegetables for dipping. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Pico de gallo: Use pre-made pico de gallo from the grocery store, or use fresh (refrigerated) salsa.
  • Storage: Cover leftovers and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to re-warm before eating.
  • Cheese: For more of a kick, swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack or a spiced Tex-Mex blend.
Calories: 144kcal, Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 17g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 19mg, Sodium: 753mg, Potassium: 108mg, Fiber: 0.5g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 422IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 169mg, Iron: 0.4mg
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Course: Dips and Dressings, Snack
Author: Miranda Galati, MHSc, RD