With just the right mix of spice, creaminess, and fresh flavor, this queso is your new go-to party dip!
Chips and salsa are a party staple, and guacamole is always a fan favorite. But to get people really excited about the spread, you need a big bowl of this melty, creamy queso. Our version is extra flavorful with fragrant sauteed garlic, fresh tomatoes, and green chilies stirred into a perfectly melty cheddar cheese sauce.
Whether you serve this queso for an extra special taco night or add it to your game day spread, it only takes 15 minutes to whip up on the stovetop and is guaranteed to be a hit.
What is Queso?
In Spanish, queso simply means “cheese.” But when we talk about queso in the States, we’re referring to a popular Tex-Mex style dip made with cheese and chili peppers, spices, and other simple, flavorful ingredients. You may also hear it called chile con queso or queso fundido.
However you say it, queso is a dippable cheese sauce that’s flavored with chilis, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and other spices. It’s the perfect pairing for tacos, nachos, or to scoop up with tortilla chips.
How to Make the BEST Queso
Ingredients
Process
Why We Love This Queso Recipe
- Simple ingredients add up to big flavor. Sautéed garlic, a Roma tomato, a can of green chilis, and some evaporated milk are really all you need to turn a block of cheese into a deliciously craveable dip.
- Start to finish, this queso dip takes less than 20 minutes to make, so you can easily turn an ordinary weeknight meal or last-minute get-together into something special.
- While many queso recipes use canned ingredients and processed cheese, this dip is full of fresh flavors, while still relying on some convenience. The fresh Roma tomato and sauteed garlic add a burst of flavor without tacking on too much time or effort.
- You can easily customize this recipe to be spicier or more on the mild side, or use a combination of different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a different flavor.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, transfer the queso to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat your queso, add the dip to a small pot on the stove and heat over low, stirring often until it’s warmed through. If the cheese dip seems a little thick, add a splash of milk to help loosen the cheese and bring it back to a smooth and creamy consistency.
Tips and Tricks for the BEST Queso Recipe
- For the smoothest, meltiest cheese, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese, NOT preshredded cheese. Often, pre-shredded cheese is coated with cellulose to prevent sticking and clumping, which can make it somewhat grainy when melted.
- Cook over low heat to prevent the queso from burning and prevent the cheese from separating.
- Customize the spiciness of this queso by using mild or medium green chilies. You can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you like a little more of a kick to your queso.
- This queso is best served fresh, but if you want to keep your queso warm, you can add it to a warming dish turned on “low” or “warm.” Just be sure to check it frequently and stir often to keep the edges from drying out.
What to Serve with Queso
While you can always scoop this cheesey dip up with your favorite tortilla chips, it also goes great with:
More Delicious and Cheesy Recipes You Will Love
The BEST Queso Recipe
With just the right mix of spice, creaminess, and fresh flavor, this queso is your new go-to party dip!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings:
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
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Place small pot over medium heat and melt butter.
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Add garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes.
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Add tomatoes, green chiles, and cumin and continue to sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.
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Stir in cornstarch, followed by evaporated milk and stir together until mixture is smooth.
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Lower heat to low and add cheese in small handfuls, while stirring. Continue to stir until cheese is full melted and mixture is smooth. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
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Remove queso from stovetop and stir in cilantro. Season with salt and pepper and stir. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
Calories: 234kcal Carbohydrates: 6g Protein: 11g Fat: 19g Saturated Fat: 11g Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g Monounsaturated Fat: 4g Trans Fat: 0.2g Cholesterol: 55mg Sodium: 949mg Potassium: 164mg Fiber: 1g Sugar: 3g Vitamin A: 685IU Vitamin C: 10mg Calcium: 345mg Iron: 1mg
CUISINE: tex-mex
KEYWORD: best cheese sauce, smooth cheese sauce recipe
COURSE: Appetizer, Snack
