Elevate your Super Bowl snack game with an irresistible recipe for Smoked Cajun Queso. Dive into a flavor-packed blend of smoked sausage, Cajun spices, and creamy Velveeta cheese, enhanced with the savory addition of succulent shrimp. This ultimate game day treat promises to be a touchdown at your Super Bowl party, ensuring a crowd-pleasing experience for all your fellow football enthusiasts.

Smoked Cajun Shrimp Queso

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (about 450g) Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 lb (about 225g) smoked sausage, diced
• 1/2 lb (about 225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Smoker:
   • Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C) using wood chips like hickory or mesquite.
2. Smoke the Sausage and Shrimp:
   • Place the diced smoked sausage and shrimp on the smoker grate. Smoke for about 20-30 minutes or until they have a nice smoky flavor. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Queso Base:
   • In a large, heat-resistant pan, heat olive oil over medium heat on the stovetop.
   • Add onions, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Melt the Velveeta:
   • Reduce the heat to low, and add the Velveeta cubes, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
5. Combine Ingredients:
   • Once the Velveeta is melted, add the smoked sausage, smoked shrimp, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and smoked paprika.
6. Season and Blend:
   • Gradually stir in the milk, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
   • Continue stirring until the queso is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Smoke the Queso:
   • Transfer the queso to a heat-proof dish suitable for smoking.
   • Place the dish on the smoker grate and smoke for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the queso has absorbed a smoky flavor.
8. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.
   • Serve the smoked Cajun shrimp queso with Velveeta warm with tortilla chips.

Savor every mouthful of this indulgent and flavorful queso, where the enticing blend of smokiness and creaminess culminate in a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Whether shared with friends during a game day gathering or enjoyed as a cozy night-in treat, this smoked Cajun queso is sure to leave your taste buds tingling with satisfaction. Embrace the joy of good company and delicious food as you relish the lingering notes of Cajun spices in every bite. Cheers to culinary delight!