White queso is a must-have dip at parties, game days, or any gathering where chips and dip are on the menu. This Best White Queso Recipe creates a smooth, creamy, and perfectly spiced cheese dip that’s irresistible. Made with real cheese and simple ingredients, it’s far better than store-bought queso. Serve it with tortilla chips, veggies, or even drizzle it over nachos and tacos.
Why You’ll Love This White Queso Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: Made with real cheese and creamy ingredients, this queso is smooth and full of flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this dip is perfect for when you need a fast snack or appetizer.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and add extra ingredients like jalapeños, chorizo, or tomatoes to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it at a party or just enjoying a movie night at home, this queso is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 12 oz white American cheese, shredded (or cubed)
- 4 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (4 oz) can green chilies, drained
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Onions and Garlic
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Heat the Milk and Cream
Add the whole milk and heavy cream to the saucepan, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to heat until small bubbles form around the edges, but do not let it come to a full boil. - Melt the Cheese
Gradually add the white American cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Make sure to add the cheese slowly to ensure a creamy texture. - Add Spices and Chilies
Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and green chilies. For extra heat, add the finely chopped jalapeño. Continue stirring until all the ingredients are well combined. - Season and Serve
Taste the queso and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the queso warm with tortilla chips, veggies, or your favorite dippers.
Tips for the Best White Queso
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The best queso is made with high-quality cheeses. American cheese melts smoothly, while Monterey Jack adds flavor and extra creaminess.
- Don’t Overheat: Make sure to heat the milk and cheese mixture gently to avoid the queso becoming grainy or separating.
- Keep It Warm: Queso thickens as it cools, so if you’re serving it over a longer period, keep it warm in a small slow cooker or a fondue pot.
Variations
- Chorizo Queso: Brown some chorizo in a separate pan and stir it into the queso just before serving for a flavorful, meaty addition.
- Spicy White Queso: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring up the heat level.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, or corn to bulk up the queso with extra texture and flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cream cheese to adjust the flavor and texture. However, white American cheese is key to achieving that classic smooth queso consistency.
Q2: Can I make this queso ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the queso ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to thin it out as needed.
Q3: Can I freeze queso?
It’s not recommended to freeze queso because the cheese can become grainy once thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store it in the refrigerator for a few days.
Q4: What can I serve with queso?
White queso is great with tortilla chips, but you can also serve it with veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, or as a sauce over nachos, tacos, or baked potatoes.
This Best White Queso Recipe is an easy and delicious way to elevate your appetizer game. With its creamy texture and mild, cheesy flavor, it’s perfect for dipping, drizzling, or even as a topping for your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes. Customize it with your favorite add-ins or spice it up to your liking — either way, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!