Shrimp Con Queso: The Ultimate Guide to Making It at Home

Shrimp con queso, oh, where do I even begin? Imagine plump, juicy shrimp swimming in a velvety, cheesy sauce, infused with just the right amount of spice. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly decadent and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I promise, once you try this, it will become a staple in your recipe rotation!

While the exact origins of shrimp con queso are a bit hazy, it’s safe to say that this delightful combination draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of both Mexican and Southern cuisine. The “con queso” element, meaning “with cheese” in Spanish, points to the Mexican influence, where cheese is a beloved ingredient in countless dishes. The addition of shrimp, a readily available seafood in coastal regions, elevates the dish to something truly special.

People adore shrimp con queso for so many reasons. First, there’s the taste – the creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. Then, there’s the texture – the tender shrimp and the smooth, melted cheese are a match made in heaven. And let’s not forget the convenience! This recipe comes together quickly, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips for dipping, over rice, or even as a topping for tacos, shrimp con queso is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half (optional, for a smoother consistency)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips, for serving
• Lime wedges, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Shrimp:

1. First things first, let’s get our shrimp ready! Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. If you bought frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear later on.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with a drizzle of olive oil (about 1/2 tablespoon), a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Give it a good mix so each shrimp is lightly coated.

Sautéing the Aromatics:

1. Now, let’s build some flavor! Heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be amazing at this point!

Cooking the Shrimp:

1. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the shrimp instead of searing them. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
2. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become rubbery. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Queso:

1. Reduce the heat back to medium. Add the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel) to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
2. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the tomato mixture. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and keep stirring to prevent sticking.
3. Gradually add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the queso is smooth and creamy. If the queso is too thick, add a splash of milk or half-and-half to thin it out to your desired consistency. A little goes a long way!
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away, so start with a little and adjust as needed.

Combining and Serving:

1. Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the queso. Make sure the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the cheese sauce.
2. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. This adds a burst of freshness to the dish.
3. Serve the shrimp con queso immediately while it’s hot and bubbly. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
4. Serve with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping. You can also serve it with warm tortillas for a more substantial meal.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up! If you like your queso extra spicy, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack cheese would add a nice kick, while queso quesadilla cheese would make it extra melty.
• Add some veggies: You can add other vegetables to the queso, such as diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the queso ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add the shrimp right before serving to prevent them from becoming overcooked.
• Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier preparation, you can make this in a slow cooker. Sauté the onions, garlic, and jalapeño as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and smooth, stirring occasionally. Add the shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Broiler Finish: For a bubbly, browned top, transfer the shrimp con queso to an oven-safe dish and broil for a minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as an appetizer for parties or gatherings.
• Enjoy as a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• Use as a topping for nachos or tacos.
• Serve with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover shrimp con queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or half-and-half to restore the creamy consistency.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g

Enjoy your delicious homemade Shrimp Con Queso! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. It’s perfect for any occasion and is always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to make it your own!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Shrimp Con Queso recipe is truly a game-changer, and I genuinely believe it deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Why? Because it’s ridiculously easy to make, bursting with flavor, and incredibly versatile. We’re talking restaurant-quality deliciousness in the comfort of your own kitchen, without spending hours slaving away. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the succulent shrimp, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone begging for more.

But beyond the sheer deliciousness, this recipe is a must-try because it’s adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Want to lighten it up? Use reduced-fat cream cheese and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella instead of cheddar. The possibilities are endless!

And let’s talk serving suggestions, because this Shrimp Con Queso is a star player in so many different scenarios. For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta. The sauce soaks in beautifully, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice.

But don’t stop there! This recipe also shines as an appetizer. Serve it with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing dip that’s sure to disappear in minutes. Or, spoon it into warm tortillas for delicious shrimp tacos. You could even use it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos. Seriously, the options are limited only by your imagination.

Here are a few more variations to get your creative juices flowing:

* Spicy Shrimp Con Queso: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a fiery kick.
* Garlic Shrimp Con Queso: Sauté a few cloves of minced garlic with the shrimp for an extra layer of flavor.
* Vegetarian Shrimp Con Queso (Okay, maybe not *shrimp* con queso, but the sauce is amazing!): Substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or black beans for a vegetarian-friendly version. You could even add some roasted corn for sweetness.
* Seafood Medley Con Queso: Add other seafood like scallops or crab meat to the shrimp for a luxurious and decadent dish.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Shrimp Con Queso for yourself. It’s one of those dishes that’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner.

Once you’ve given it a whirl, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see what culinary creations you come up with! Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it!