Description
This Mexican Restaurant Style White Cheese (Queso) Dip is a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce made with white American cheese, spices, and a touch of heat from jalapeños. Perfect for serving warm with tortilla chips or as a delicious topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos, this dip brings authentic restaurant taste to your home kitchen in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups white American cheese, shredded or cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or more, as needed)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
- 1 tbsp diced green chilies (canned)
Seasonings
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Melt the Cheese: In a medium saucepan, combine the white American cheese, milk, and heavy cream over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to help the cheese melt evenly.
- Add Flavors: Once the cheese begins to melt and the mixture is creamy, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and diced green chilies to infuse the dip with authentic Mexican flavor.
- Incorporate Jalapeño: For an extra spicy kick, mix in the finely diced jalapeño at this stage. Adjust the amount according to your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer a milder dip.
- Achieve Desired Consistency: Continue to stir the mixture until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is smooth and creamy. If the queso is too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Transfer the warm queso dip to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos for a deliciously cheesy touch.
Notes
- Use white American cheese for an authentic and creamy texture; avoid pre-shredded cheese as it often contains anti-caking agents that might affect melting.
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity or omit it for a milder version suitable for all ages.
- If the dip cools and thickens, gently reheat over low heat while stirring and add a bit more milk if needed to loosen the consistency.
- For a dairy-free or vegan alternative, try using plant-based cheese substitutes, but the texture and taste will vary.
- This queso dip is best served fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and gently reheated before serving.
