Celebrate National Queso Day with Free Moe’s Queso: Delicious Recipes and Beyond!

National Queso Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness that is queso. And what better way to celebrate than with free Moe’s queso? Moe’s Southwest Grill often participates in National Queso Day, typically celebrated on September 20th, by offering free queso to its rewards members or through other promotional deals. Be sure to check your local Moe’s and their app for the latest offers! This article will guide you on how to score that free queso and, more importantly, give you some fantastic and detailed recipes to elevate your queso experience.

What is National Queso Day?

National Queso Day is a day dedicated to celebrating queso, a delicious melted cheese dip that originated in Mexico. It’s a day for queso lovers to indulge in their favorite cheesy treat and to discover new ways to enjoy it. While its exact origins are debated, the modern queso we know and love gained popularity in the United States, particularly in Texas, where it is considered a regional specialty.

How to Get Free Moe’s Queso on National Queso Day

While promotions can change from year to year, here’s how you can typically snag some free queso from Moe’s:

* **Join Moe’s Rewards Program:** Download the Moe’s app and sign up for their rewards program. This is often the easiest way to get notified about exclusive deals and freebies, including the National Queso Day offer.
* **Check Moe’s Website and Social Media:** Keep an eye on Moe’s official website and social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) leading up to National Queso Day. They will usually announce the details of their promotion in advance.
* **In-Store Promotions:** Some locations might offer free queso with the purchase of an entree, or other in-store promotions, on National Queso Day. Check with your local Moe’s for details.
* **Email Offers:** Make sure you’re signed up for Moe’s email list to receive exclusive offers and promotions directly to your inbox.

Beyond the Dip: Creative Queso Recipes to Try

Once you’ve secured your free Moe’s queso (or if you just want to make your own – recipe below!), it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Here are some delicious and detailed recipes to inspire you:

1. Queso Mac and Cheese

This recipe takes the classic comfort food and elevates it with the creamy, cheesy goodness of queso.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 2 cups Moe’s queso (or homemade queso, recipe below)
* Optional toppings: chopped bacon, green onions, jalapenos

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Macaroni:** Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until smooth. This creates a roux.
3. **Add the Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4. **Season the Sauce:** Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the sauce. Stir well.
5. **Melt the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and queso until melted and smooth. Make sure the heat is low to prevent the cheese from scorching.
6. **Combine with Macaroni:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. **Bake (Optional):** For a bubbly, golden-brown top, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
8. **Serve:** Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped bacon, green onions, or jalapenos.

**Tips and Variations:**

* For a spicier mac and cheese, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
* You can use other types of pasta, such as shells or rotini.
* Add cooked vegetables, such as broccoli or peas, to the mac and cheese for added nutrients.
* Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

2. Queso Chicken Enchiladas

This recipe combines the flavors of classic chicken enchiladas with the creamy richness of queso. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
* 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 10-12 corn tortillas
* 2 cups Moe’s queso (or homemade queso, recipe below)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, cilantro

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chicken Filling:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. **Add the Chicken and Seasonings:** Stir in the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the flavors have melded.
3. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the corn tortillas according to package directions. This will make them more pliable and prevent them from cracking when rolled.
4. **Assemble the Enchiladas:** Spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling onto each tortilla. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. **Top with Queso and Cheese:** Pour the queso over the enchiladas, making sure to cover them evenly. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
7. **Serve:** Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, and cilantro.

**Tips and Variations:**

* For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with black beans or cooked vegetables.
* Add a can of drained and rinsed corn to the chicken filling for added sweetness and texture.
* Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas, if desired.
* Add a layer of enchilada sauce under the queso for a more traditional flavor.

3. Queso Burgers

Elevate your burger game with a generous topping of creamy queso. This recipe is perfect for a casual cookout or a weeknight dinner.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 pounds ground beef
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 4 hamburger buns
* 2 cups Moe’s queso (or homemade queso, recipe below)
* Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, jalapenos

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Burgers:** In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. **Form the Patties:** Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and form them into patties about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
3. **Cook the Burgers:** Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
4. **Toast the Buns:** While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns.
5. **Assemble the Burgers:** Place a cooked burger on each toasted bun. Top with a generous amount of queso and your favorite toppings.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add a slice of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone, to the burger during the last minute of cooking.
* Grill the burgers over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
* Use a different type of ground meat, such as ground turkey or ground chicken.
* Add a fried egg to the burger for extra richness.

4. Queso-Smothered Burrito Bowls

Take your burrito bowl to the next level with a generous drizzle of queso. Customize with your favorite toppings for a healthy and satisfying meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
* 1/2 cup cooked black beans
* 1/2 cup cooked corn
* 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 avocado, diced
* 2 cups Moe’s queso (or homemade queso, recipe below)
* Optional toppings: grilled chicken or steak, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Base:** Divide the cooked rice, black beans, and corn between two bowls.
2. **Add the Toppings:** Top with chopped tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and diced avocado.
3. **Drizzle with Queso:** Drizzle generously with queso.
4. **Add Optional Toppings:** Add any additional toppings you desire, such as grilled chicken or steak, sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use quinoa instead of rice for a higher protein option.
* Add grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, to the bowl.
* Squeeze lime juice over the bowl for added flavor.
* Add shredded lettuce or spinach for extra greens.

5. Queso Nachos Supreme

This classic appetizer is always a crowd-pleaser. Top tortilla chips with your favorite ingredients and smother them in queso.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 bag tortilla chips
* 1 pound ground beef, cooked and seasoned
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* 1/2 cup chopped red onion
* 1/2 cup chopped jalapenos
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 2 cups Moe’s queso (or homemade queso, recipe below)
* Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, olives, green onions

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chips:** Spread the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
2. **Add the Toppings:** Top with the cooked ground beef, black beans, kidney beans, red onion, and jalapenos.
3. **Sprinkle with Cheese:** Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
4. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Drizzle with Queso:** Drizzle generously with queso.
6. **Add Optional Toppings:** Add any additional toppings you desire, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, olives, or green onions.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use a different type of meat, such as shredded chicken or carnitas.
* Add cooked chorizo for a spicy kick.
* Use a variety of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* Grill the nachos over charcoal for a smoky flavor.

Homemade Queso Recipe (If You Don’t Get Free Moe’s!)

While free Moe’s queso is amazing, sometimes you want to make your own. This recipe is simple and delicious.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
* 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
* 1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic:** In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. **Add the Evaporated Milk and Green Chilies:** Stir in the evaporated milk and diced green chilies. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
3. **Melt the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Make sure the heat stays low to prevent scorching.
4. **Season:** Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately with tortilla chips, vegetables, or your favorite dippers.

**Tips and Variations:**

* For a spicier queso, add more diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* Add a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, in addition to or instead of Velveeta.
* Blend the queso with a hand blender or in a regular blender for an ultra-smooth consistency. Be careful when blending hot liquids.

Tips for Making the Best Queso

No matter which recipe you’re using, here are some tips to ensure your queso is perfect every time:

* **Use High-Quality Cheese:** The quality of the cheese will directly impact the flavor and texture of your queso. Opt for high-quality Velveeta (if using), cheddar, Monterey Jack, or other cheeses that melt well.
* **Don’t Overheat the Cheese:** Overheating can cause the cheese to separate and become greasy. Use low heat and stir constantly to prevent this from happening.
* **Add Liquid Gradually:** When adding liquid, such as milk or cream, add it gradually to ensure the cheese melts smoothly.
* **Season to Taste:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavor combination. Common seasonings include cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
* **Keep it Warm:** Queso is best served warm. Use a slow cooker or chafing dish to keep it warm during parties or gatherings.

Other Ways to Celebrate National Queso Day

Beyond the recipes above, here are some other fun ways to celebrate National Queso Day:

* **Host a Queso Party:** Invite your friends and family over for a queso-themed party. Serve a variety of different quesos, dips, and toppings.
* **Try a New Queso Restaurant:** Explore different restaurants in your area that serve queso. Try a new type of queso or a new dish featuring queso.
* **Share Your Queso Creations on Social Media:** Use the hashtag #NationalQuesoDay to share your own queso recipes and creations on social media.
* **Gift Queso-Related Items:** Give queso-themed gifts to your friends and family, such as a queso warmer, a set of dipping bowls, or a gift certificate to a queso restaurant.
* **Simply Enjoy a Bowl of Queso:** Sometimes, the best way to celebrate National Queso Day is to simply enjoy a bowl of warm, cheesy queso with your favorite tortilla chips.

Conclusion

National Queso Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in your love of queso and get creative in the kitchen. With these recipes and tips, you’ll be able to create delicious queso dishes that will impress your friends and family. And don’t forget to check Moe’s for free queso deals! So, grab your chips, gather your ingredients, and get ready to celebrate National Queso Day in style!