Queso Dip

A creamy, spicy, and irresistibly cheesy dip—perfect for game day gatherings and Super Bowl parties. This Queso Dip brings the authentic Tex-Mex flavor to your table with a velvety texture that stays smooth and delicious from the first scoop to the last.

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Whether you are prepping for the big game or just looking for a vegetarian appetizer that everyone will love, this dip is a guaranteed hit. The combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh crunch of jalapeños and onions.

Ingredients

• Dairy: 2 cups (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup (115 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, 2 tbsp (16 g) cream cheese
• Vegetables: 1 small jalapeño (finely diced, seeds removed for less heat), 1 small tomato (seeded and diced), 1/4 cup (30 g) finely chopped red onion, 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Spices & Seasonings: 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Optional Garnishes: 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 1 tbsp sliced green onions

Instructions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and jalapeño; cook, stirring, until softened, about 2 minutes.

Step 2

Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the milk and cream cheese; whisk until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 4

Gradually add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and velvety.

Step 5

Mix in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 6

Stir in diced tomato and cook for 1 minute to warm through.

Step 7

Transfer to a serving bowl or a warm slow cooker. Garnish with cilantro and green onions if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To keep the dip at the perfect consistency, keep it warm in a slow cooker on the warm setting. This prevents the cheese from thickening too much as it sits during a party. For the smoothest texture, ensure you whisk the cream cheese completely into the milk before adding the shredded cheeses.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer extra heat, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also substitute part of the sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for an even spicier kick without changing the fundamental recipe.

Serviervorschläge

This versatile dip pairs exceptionally well with classic tortilla chips, pretzel bites, or even fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers for a lighter option. It is the ultimate centerpiece for any snack platter.

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Enjoy this warm, savory Queso Dip with friends and family. Its rich, cheesy goodness is sure to make your next gathering a memorable one. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of spice and creaminess!

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I increase the heat level of this dish?

To make it spicier, you can either leave the seeds in the jalapeño when dicing it, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the final steps. Another excellent option is to substitute some of the cheddar cheese with Pepper Jack for a noticeable kick.

→ What are the best serving suggestions for this cheese dip?

This creamy dip pairs wonderfully with classic tortilla chips. For a different texture, try serving it with pretzel bites. If you're looking for lighter options, fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, or bell pepper strips are excellent choices.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While best served fresh and warm, you can prepare components like dicing vegetables ahead of time. The assembled dip tends to thicken as it cools. If making ahead, gently reheat it over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.

→ How do I keep the dip warm during a gathering?

The best way to keep this cheese creation warm and perfectly dippable throughout your event is to transfer it to a slow cooker set to the "warm" setting. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming and maintain its smooth consistency.

→ Are there any suitable cheese substitutions?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack offer a classic flavor, you can experiment with other melting cheeses. Colby Jack, mild cheddar, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses would work well. For a sharper profile, a good quality white cheddar can be excellent.