Name: White Queso Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487271H12M56S
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup milk (preferably whole milk); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (mild or hot, depending on your preference); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional, for added flavor); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This White Queso Dip is ultra-creamy and loaded with flavor, making it a perfect choice for anyone who loves a smooth, cheesy dip with a hint of spice. The addition of green chilies and spices gives it just the right amount of kick without being overwhelming, and the blend of cheeses creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the best part is that it only takes a few ingredients to achieve a flavor-packed dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re dipping chips, nachos, or even vegetables, this dip will quickly become your go-to cheesy indulgence.

Ingredients

2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup milk (preferably whole milk)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional, for added flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux (a thickening agent). This helps create a smooth, creamy texture for the dip.
Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Add the cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the shredded white cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the dip: Stir in the diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Adjust the consistency: If the dip is too thick, you can add more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Pour the white queso dip into a serving bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or as a topping for nachos, tacos, or burritos.
Enjoy: Enjoy your creamy and flavorful White Queso Dip while it’s warm!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dip for an extra kick of heat.
Veggie-loaded queso dip: Add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or tomatoes to the dip for extra flavor and texture.
Vegan version: Use vegan cheese and dairy-free milk (such as almond milk) to make this dip completely vegan. You can also use plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover White Queso Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the dip in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little extra milk if needed to restore its creamy texture. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make White Queso Dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat it and add a little more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.

2. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Pepper Jack cheese adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella or Havarti will give the dip a different texture. Make sure to use a meltable cheese for the smoothest dip.

3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother dip. Pre-shredded cheese may have anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the dip.

4. Can I make this dip without green chilies?

Yes, if you prefer a milder dip, you can omit the green chilies or substitute them with diced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even sweet corn for added flavor.

5. Can I make this dip spicier?

Yes, you can make the dip spicier by adding chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount of spice to suit your preferences.

6. Is White Queso Dip gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch for the roux. Most cheeses and milk are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

White Queso Dip is a creamy, flavorful, and versatile dip that everyone will love. With its rich, cheesy base and a hint of heat from green chilies and garlic, this dip is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack, a party appetizer, or a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes. Quick to make, easy to customize, and irresistibly delicious, this White Queso Dip will become your go-to recipe whenever you crave a cheesy, savory treat!