Homemade queso dip is a rich, creamy, and cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips, drizzling over nachos, or serving alongside tacos and burritos. This easy recipe is made with real cheese, a touch of spice, and simple ingredients, making it far better than store-bought versions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra Creamy and Cheesy: Smooth, melty cheese with a perfect dip-able texture.
- Better Than Store-Bought: Made with real ingredients and no artificial additives.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes!
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and mix in your favorite add-ins.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, game days, or a snack night.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Whole milk or half-and-half
- Diced green chilies (canned or fresh)
- Jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra spice)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cumin
- Salt
- Diced tomatoes (optional for extra texture)
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Make a Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until slightly golden.
- Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually add shredded cheese, stirring until fully melted.
- Add the Flavor: Stir in green chilies, jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt. Add diced tomatoes if using.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with cilantro, and serve warm with tortilla chips.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Queso: Add cayenne pepper, extra jalapeños, or hot sauce.
- Chorizo Queso Dip: Brown chorizo and mix it into the cheese sauce.
- Beer Queso: Substitute part of the milk with beer for a tangy twist.
- Tex-Mex Queso: Stir in taco-seasoned ground beef or black beans.
- Healthier Version: Use reduced-fat cheese and milk instead of cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cheese sauces can separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if needed.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s best to use freshly shredded cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
How do I make queso dip thicker?
Let it simmer longer or add extra cheese. A small amount of cornstarch slurry can also help.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes! Melt everything in a crockpot on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
How do I keep queso dip from hardening?
Serve it in a warmed dish or crockpot on low heat to keep it smooth.
What can I serve with queso dip?
Tortilla chips, pretzels, veggies, or drizzle it over tacos, nachos, or baked potatoes.
How do I make dairy-free queso?
Use dairy-free cheese and swap the milk for unsweetened almond or cashew milk.
Can I use evaporated milk?
Yes! It creates a super smooth texture and helps prevent graininess.
What’s the difference between queso dip and nacho cheese?
Queso dip is typically thicker, creamier, and often includes peppers and seasonings, while nacho cheese is simpler.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge and reheat slowly, stirring frequently.
How do I make queso dip less salty?
Use low-sodium cheese or add a splash of milk to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
Homemade queso dip is a must-try appetizer that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual snack, this quick and easy dip will be the star of the table. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality queso at home!
Print
Homemade Queso Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Homemade Queso Dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—just like your favorite Mexican restaurant! Perfect for dipping tortilla chips, drizzling over nachos, or adding to tacos and burritos.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded white American cheese (or substitute with Monterey Jack or white cheddar)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (or half & half for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)
- 1 small can (4 oz / 110 g) diced green chilies (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) diced tomatoes (optional, for a Tex-Mex twist)
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Melt the Butter & Sauté the Jalapeños:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add jalapeños and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2️⃣ Melt the Cheese:
- Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in milk.
- Gradually stir in shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
3️⃣ Season the Queso:
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
- If using, add green chilies and diced tomatoes.
4️⃣ Adjust Consistency:
- If the queso is too thick, add more milk (1 tablespoon at a time).
- If too thin, let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips, tacos, or burritos!
Notes
🔥 Spicier Queso? Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
🧄 More Flavor? Stir in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard.
🥑 Tex-Mex Style? Add cooked chorizo or black beans for extra texture.
🧀 Super Smooth Queso? Blend with an immersion blender for a silky finish.