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Cheesy Queso Dip

Creamy cheesy queso dip with tomatoes and jalapeños for dipping chips

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This Cheesy Queso Dip is the ultimate party appetizer, featuring a perfectly smooth and velvety blend of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheeses. It comes together quickly with sautéed aromatics and a hint of spice for a deeply flavorful dip that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
  • 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For garnish: chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, extra diced jalapeño

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics. In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and jalapeño; cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
  2. Create the creamy base. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add drained tomatoes and cubed cream cheese. Stir until cream cheese is fully melted and smooth.
  3. Incorporate the milk. Slowly pour in milk while stirring constantly. Warm the mixture for 2-3 minutes until steaming but not boiling.
  4. Melt the cheese. Gradually sprinkle in the grated cheeses, a handful at a time, stirring until completely melted after each addition.
  5. Season the dip. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Serve warm. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish as desired, and serve immediately with tortilla chips or veggies.

Notes

For a smooth dip, always grate your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Reheat leftovers gently over low heat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.

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