When you’re looking for the ultimate party snack or the perfect topping for your favorite Tex-Mex dish, look no further than this rich and creamy Queso Dip. It’s melty, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy—made with real white American cheese, fresh jalapeño, onions, and a touch of cilantro for that bright, herby finish. Whether you’re dipping tortilla chips or drizzling it over tacos or burrito bowls, this queso brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.
This recipe is incredibly easy to make, and it comes together in just 15 minutes on the stovetop. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or techniques—just a good skillet, fresh aromatics, and quality cheese. It’s the perfect appetizer for game night, movie night, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying. Plus, it’s totally customizable to your heat preference and serving style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Ultra Creamy Texture: Smooth and luscious, just like your favorite restaurant queso.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Perfectly Spiced: Customize the heat level with more or less jalapeño.
• Versatile Use: Serve it as a dip or spoon it over nachos, burritos, or grilled veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, gatherings, or just snacking at home.
Ingredients:
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ cup sweet onion, chopped
• ½–1 jalapeño, minced (to taste)
• 1 lb white American cheese, shredded
• 1 cup milk
• ¼–½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (as needed to thin)
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• ½ cup tomatoes, finely diced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeño. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the jalapeño is fragrant. Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on how spicy you like your queso.
Step 2: Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded white American cheese and milk to the skillet. Stir continuously with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency
Gradually stir in chicken broth, starting with ¼ cup. Add more as needed until the queso reaches your desired consistency—thicker for dipping, thinner for pouring.
Step 4: Add Fresh Ingredients
Once the cheese sauce is smooth, stir in the chopped cilantro and finely diced tomatoes. Mix gently to combine.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Start with a pinch and adjust to your liking.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve warm, garnished with extra chopped cilantro or a spoonful of pico de gallo. Enjoy with tortilla chips, or drizzle over nachos, tacos, or scrambled eggs.
Tips:
• Cheese Matters: White American cheese melts best for that silky texture. You can find it at the deli counter—just ask for a block to shred at home.
• Want it Spicier? Leave in some jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• No Chicken Broth? Use water or a bit of extra milk if needed, though broth adds depth of flavor.
• Make it Extra Smooth: Use an immersion blender for a few seconds if your queso needs a little help smoothing out.
• Add-Ins: Stir in cooked chorizo, ground beef, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier dip.
Storage and Reheating:
Refrigerator:
Store leftover queso dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring often, and add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until warm and smooth. Again, a splash of milk can help bring back the original consistency.
Freezing:
Not recommended. Because it’s dairy-based, freezing can cause the texture to separate and become grainy.
Queso Dip is the cheesy, melty goodness every snack table deserves. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to a savory indulgence, this homemade version is leagues above the store-bought kind—and so easy to whip up. Serve it warm and gooey, and watch it disappear fast!
