Description
This creamy, flavorful queso dip is a crowd-pleaser perfect for parties or cozy nights in. Combining sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with diced tomatoes, green chiles, and a touch of jalapeño for heat, it melts into a luscious, cheesy dip enhanced by spices and fresh lime juice. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for serving with tortilla chips or veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Dairy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
Dry Ingredients and Spices
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Vegetables and Extras
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the roux: Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter until just foamy. This provides the base to thicken your queso.
- Add flour: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden. This step removes the raw flour taste and helps the queso thicken smoothly.
- Incorporate milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Thicken the milk mixture: Let the milk warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently until it slightly thickens, about 5 minutes. This creates a creamy base for the cheese to melt into.
- Add cheese: Lower heat to low and add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses a handful at a time, stirring continuously until fully melted and creamy, ensuring a silky texture.
- Add flavorings: Stir in diced tomatoes with green chiles, finely chopped jalapeño, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cumin. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors well.
- Finish and adjust: Add lime juice and fresh cilantro (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to balance flavor.
- Serve: Pour queso into a warm serving bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or your favorite dippers for a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity to control the heat level in the queso.
- If queso thickens too much upon standing, reheat gently while stirring in a splash of milk to restore creamy consistency.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Keep queso warm in a slow cooker or warming tray if serving over a longer period.
