Creamy Spicy Queso Dip (Printer-Friendly)

Creamy, spicy queso with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, jalapeños, and warm spices. Perfect for game day gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
02 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese

→ Vegetables

06 - 1 small jalapeño, finely diced with seeds removed
07 - 1 small tomato, seeded and diced
08 - 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Spices and Seasonings

10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
13 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional Garnishes

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
16 - 1 tablespoon sliced green onions

# How To Make:

01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the red onion and jalapeño, stirring constantly, until softened, approximately 2 minutes.
02 - Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Stir in the whole milk and cream cheese, whisking until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture achieves a smooth consistency.
04 - Gradually add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and the mixture reaches a velvety texture.
05 - Mix in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed.
06 - Stir in the diced tomato and cook for 1 minute to warm through.
07 - Transfer to a serving bowl or warm slow cooker. Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in less time than a halftime show and tastes better than anything from a jar.
  • The texture stays silky and smooth instead of turning into a rubbery mess after ten minutes.
  • You can dial the heat up or down without losing that rich, cheesy comfort everyone craves.
02 -
  • If you add the cheese too fast or over high heat, it will seize up and turn grainy, so keep the heat medium and add it gradually.
  • Seeding the tomato is not optional, the extra moisture will thin out your dip and make it soupy instead of scoopable.
  • Once the queso cools, it thickens quickly, so keep it warm in a slow cooker or reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.
03 -
  • Shred your own cheese instead of buying pre shredded, the anti caking agents in bagged cheese prevent smooth melting and leave the dip grainy.
  • If the dip gets too thick, whisk in warm milk a tablespoon at a time until it loosens up to your preferred consistency.
  • Taste before serving and don't be shy about adding an extra pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
Go Back