Creamy Spicy Queso Dip (Printable Version)

Creamy, spicy cheese dip with cheddar, Monterey Jack, jalapeños, and Tex-Mex spices. Ready in 20 minutes.

# Components:

→ 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

# Directions:

01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the red onion and jalapeño; cook while stirring 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; whisk until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
04 - Gradually add the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and velvety in texture.
05 - Mix in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground 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 faster than most people can find a parking spot at the grocery store.
  • The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack creates a texture that clings to chips without turning gluey.
  • You can dial the heat up or down depending on who is reaching for seconds.
  • It stays silky and warm in a slow cooker, so you are not stuck reheating it every ten minutes.
02 -
  • If the dip thickens too much as it sits, whisk in a splash of warm milk to bring it back to life.
  • Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded, which is coated with anti-caking agents that make the dip grainy.
  • Seed the tomato and jalapeño or you will end up with a watery, runny mess that no amount of stirring will fix.
03 -
  • Grate your cheese from a cold block, it melts more evenly and won't turn oily or separated.
  • Add the cheese gradually and stir constantly, rushing this step will give you a grainy, broken dip that no amount of whisking will fix.
  • Taste before you serve and adjust the salt, some cheeses are saltier than others and you want balance, not a sodium bomb.
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