Description
This creamy and flavorful White Queso Dip combines melted white American and Monterey Jack cheeses with sautéed onion, jalapeño, and spices. Perfectly smooth and cheesy, this dip is ideal for serving warm alongside tortilla chips or fresh vegetables, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Thickening Agents and Dairy
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheeses and Seasonings
- 2 cups white American cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Serving
- Tortilla chips or fresh veggies for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced jalapeño; sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its flavor without burning.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously and cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux that will thicken the dip.
- Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream into the roux. Continue cooking and whisking the mixture until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes, to create a rich base for the queso.
- Melt Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded white American and Monterey Jack cheeses in small handfuls, stirring continuously until each addition is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season: Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary to balance the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm alongside tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier dip, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting instead of pre-shredded cheese to avoid clumping.
- If the dip becomes too thick, stir in a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency.
- White Queso dip is best enjoyed warm; reheat gently before serving again.
- Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor, but it’s optional based on preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
