Description
This creamy White Queso Dip combines melted white American and Monterey Jack cheeses with a smooth roux base, enhanced by diced green chiles and warm spices. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, it’s a rich and flavorful Mexican-American appetizer best served warm with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
Cheese and Flavorings
- 2 cups shredded white American cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, drained
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Whisk continuously for 1 minute to cook the flour and form a smooth roux, which will thicken the dip.
- Add liquids: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and half-and-half, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3 to 5 minutes. Adjust heat as needed to avoid boiling.
- Incorporate cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded white American and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until fully melted and creamy.
- Season the dip: Stir in the diced green chiles, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt to taste. Mix well to evenly distribute flavors.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the dip from heat and transfer it to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce when adding the green chiles.
- To keep warm for a party, transfer the dip to a slow cooker set on the “warm” setting to maintain its creamy texture without drying out.
- Use sharp cheeses for a bolder flavor if preferred.
- This dip reheats well on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
