White Queso Dip (Quick & Easy) Recipe

Introduction

White queso dip is a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce perfect for snacking or entertaining. This quick and easy recipe combines melty American cheese with sautéed peppers for a deliciously smooth dip that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips.

A black skillet filled with creamy white cheese dip sprinkled with small chopped red tomatoes and green cilantro evenly across the top surface; a woman's hand is dipping two yellow corn tortilla chips into the smooth, thick cheese near the right side; in the background, there are more yellow corn tortilla chips and green cilantro on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 jalapeno (seeded and finely diced)
  • 2 tablespoons yellow onion (finely diced)
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper (finely diced)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (salted recommended)
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1 lb. American cheese (high quality, see notes)
  • ¼ cup Pico De Gallo
  • ¼ cup cilantro (roughly chopped)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the jalapeno, yellow onion, and red pepper in butter over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a skillet or double boiler, warm the half and half over medium heat. Gradually add American cheese in smaller pieces, stirring constantly as it melts into a smooth sauce.
  3. Step 3: Stir the sautéed vegetables into the melted cheese mixture. Remove from heat.
  4. Step 4: Garnish the queso dip with Pico De Gallo and chopped cilantro. Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping.

Tips & Variations

  • Using a double boiler helps melt the cheese gently, preventing it from becoming grainy.
  • Swap out jalapeno for a milder pepper if you prefer less heat.
  • For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream cheese along with the American cheese.
  • Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas for a twist on traditional chips.

Storage

Store any leftover queso dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to keep it smooth.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a black iron skillet filled with smooth, creamy white cheese dip with small colorful bits in it. The dip is decorated with finely chopped fresh red tomatoes and green herbs around the edges in an uneven ring. A woman's hand is holding a triangular yellow corn chip dipping into the cheese near the right side of the skillet. Behind the skillet on a white marbled surface, there are a few more yellow corn chips and some fresh green cilantro leaves in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of American cheese?

American cheese melts smoothly and gives the dip its signature creamy texture. You can try processed cheeses or a mix with mozzarella, but the texture and flavor may differ.

How do I prevent the queso from separating?

Heating the cheese gently using a double boiler and stirring constantly helps prevent separation. Avoid high heat and melting that too quickly.

Print
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White Queso Dip (Quick & Easy) Recipe


  • Author: Hailey
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: About 4 cups of dip, serves 8-10 people 1x

Description

This White Queso Dip is a quick and easy Mexican-inspired cheese dip that’s perfect for snacking or entertaining. Made with creamy American cheese, sautéed jalapenos, onions, and red peppers, and finished with fresh pico de gallo and cilantro, it offers a smooth, flavorful dip that’s ideal for serving with tortilla chips.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper, finely diced
  • ¼ cup pico de gallo
  • ¼ cup cilantro, roughly chopped

Dairy and Fats

  • 1 tablespoon butter (salted)
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1 lb. high-quality American cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the double boiler or skillet: For best results and a smooth texture, use a double boiler to gently heat and melt the cheese. Alternatively, you can use a skillet directly over medium heat, but a double boiler helps avoid scorching.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced jalapeno, yellow onion, and red pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Melt the cheese: In the double boiler or skillet over medium heat, add 1 cup of half and half. Gradually add the chopped American cheese in smaller squares to allow even melting. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Combine and finish: Stir the sautéed vegetables into the melted cheese mixture until well combined. Remove from heat. Garnish with ¼ cup pico de gallo and ¼ cup roughly chopped cilantro for freshness and added flavor.
  5. Serve: Transfer the queso dip to a serving bowl, mini warmer, or cast iron skillet. Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping.

Notes

  • Using a double boiler ensures the cheese melts evenly without burning, resulting in a creamy smooth dip.
  • Choose a high-quality American cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
  • You can make your own double boiler at home by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain smoothness.
  • For extra heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeno or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dip
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Keywords: White Queso Dip, Queso Blanco, Cheese Dip, Mexican Dip, Jalapeno Cheese Dip, Party Dip, Easy Dip Recipe

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