Pumpkin Queso Dip

This Pumpkin Queso Dip is so unique and delicious! It's perfect for game day or even a appetizers for dinner night. You'll become addicted to this lighter queso dip with flavors of Fall!

Queso is one of those dips that almost anyone loves - kids, adults, anyone. It's usually not too spicy and it's pretty popular so it's easy to find. Most recipes are made with a processed cheese loaf. While it can be delicious, it really is unhealthy. After eating a cheese dip made from real cheese, the cheese loaf dip really starts to taste inedible.

For this dip, some of the cheese is replaced with pumpkin. Not only does it cut out a lot of fat, it gives the dip a gorgeous orange color. Perfect for Halloween or Thanksgiving! I like to add a little chili powder and cinnamon to add a little warmth and heat to this queso. They are totally optional but add great flavor to the finished dip. Be careful not to add too much cinnamon. Start with a very small pinch!

This would look great served with black bean tortilla chips for a orange and black Halloween appetizer!

Pumpkin Queso Dip

Serves 6-8

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup unsweetened, original almond or cashew milk
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
• heaping 1/2 cup salsa or ro*tel
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• very small pinch cinnamon (optional)

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. 

Add flour to melted butter and whisk to combine. Cook for one minute.

Whisk in milk, a little at a time until smooth and all milk is added.

Stir in pumpkin, salsa, and spices.

Remove from heat and stir in cheese, 1/2 cup at a time until melted.