Description
This creamy, flavorful queso dip combines melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with diced tomatoes and green chilies for a perfect party appetizer. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s ideal for serving with tortilla chips or as a delicious topping for nachos, tacos, and burritos.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Ro*Tel)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for a richer dip)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Simmer tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, including the juice, and bring the mixture to a simmer to meld flavors.
- Melt cream cheese: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until it melts smoothly into the mixture.
- Add shredded cheeses: Gradually incorporate the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly to create a creamy, melted cheese blend.
- Adjust consistency and season: Pour in the half-and-half or heavy cream and stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for seasoning and perfect consistency.
- Warm through: Continue cooking over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the queso is heated thoroughly and all ingredients are well combined.
- Final seasoning: Taste the queso and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed for balanced flavor.
- Garnish: Optionally sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a fresh herbal note.
- Serve: Serve the queso hot with tortilla chips or use as a topping for nachos, tacos, or burritos for a tasty addition.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese to ensure it melts quickly and smoothly.
- For a spicier dip, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Keep stirring while melting cheeses to prevent burning and ensure a smooth texture.
- This dip can be kept warm on low heat or gently reheated before serving.
