If you’re searching for the ultimate party starter or a crowd-pleasing snack, this Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip is about to become your new favorite recipe. Creamy, ultra-melty, and loaded with just the right touch of green chilies, it’s the kind of dip you dream about long after the bowl is empty. Whether you’re pairing it with crunchy tortilla chips, drizzling it over nachos, or sneaking in a bite between friends, every scoop delivers that irresistible restaurant-style flavor right from your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dip comes together with a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the smooth, rich, and slightly tangy profile that makes Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip so addictive.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps kickstart the roux for the perfect creamy base.
- All-Purpose Flour: Just a bit thickens the dip and keeps it velvety smooth.
- Whole Milk: The full-fat creaminess is key for that luscious texture—don’t substitute if you can help it!
- White American Cheese (cubed): The real secret to authentic queso; it melts perfectly for that signature silky finish.
- Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded): Adds a mild, gooey stretch and a subtle tang to balance the dip.
- Diced Green Chilies (drained): Mild or hot, these bring subtle heat and a pop of color.
- Garlic Powder: A dash brings gentle warmth and savory depth.
- Onion Powder: Rounds out the flavor, making every bite irresistible.
- Salt: Just enough to make all the other flavors shine.
- Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and complexity to the finished dip.
- Optional Garnishes (chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños): Freshness and a touch of heat if you love a little extra kick.
How to Make Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Make the Roux
Start by placing a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about one minute. This quick step creates a roux, which helps your Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip stay irresistibly creamy and prevents any graininess.
Step 2: Whisk in the Milk
Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking as you go. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and just slightly thickened. This part is crucial for achieving that wonderfully silky base, so don’t rush—your patience pays off with every bite!
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed white American cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir gently but persistently, and watch as the cheeses melt into the sauce, turning it into the creamy, dreamy Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip you crave.
Step 4: Stir in Chilies and Seasonings
Once the cheese is fully melted and your dip is smooth, stir in the drained diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens—taste and adjust the seasonings if you want a little more kick or savory depth.
Step 5: Keep Warm and Garnish
Keep your dip warm over low heat until you’re ready to serve. Just before serving, top with chopped cilantro or diced jalapeños for a burst of freshness and color. Then, grab your favorite dippers and dig in while it’s hot and gooey.
How to Serve Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip
Garnishes
Garnishing your Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip isn’t just about looks—it’s about the little flavor pops that take your dip to the next level. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro gives a fresh, herby finish, while diced jalapeños add a spicy zing for those who like it hot. For something extra special, stir in a spoonful of crumbled cooked chorizo or a dash of smoked paprika before serving.
Side Dishes
This dip is the life of any party platter! Serve it with classic tortilla chips for a no-fail favorite, but don’t stop there. Fresh-cut vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and celery are a rainbow of crunch and color. Soft pretzels, warm flour tortillas, or even crispy potato wedges all make excellent partners for scooping up that creamy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, try serving your Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl or mini cast iron skillets for a rustic touch. Drizzle it over loaded nachos, tacos, or roasted veggies for an unforgettable twist. This dip also makes a drool-worthy topping for burgers or grilled chicken sandwiches if you’re feeling adventurous!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chances are, your Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip will disappear fast, but if you do have leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld and get even better, making tomorrow’s snack just as delicious.
Freezing
While this dip is best fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place cooled dip in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to two months. Keep in mind the texture may change slightly after thawing, but a good stir and gentle reheating will bring it back to life.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer the dip to a saucepan and warm it gently over low heat, stirring frequently. If it seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each, until it’s smooth and heated through—just be careful not to overcook, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! While white American cheese ensures that classic Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip meltiness, you can experiment with cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavors and textures. Just note that some cheeses don’t melt as smoothly, so results may vary.
How can I make the dip spicier?
For extra heat, use hot diced green chilies or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also mix in minced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to tailor the spice level exactly to your taste.
What if I can’t find white American cheese?
If white American cheese isn’t available at your local store, try using deli-sliced American cheese or a combination of Monterey Jack and mozzarella. The texture may be slightly different, but the dip will still be delicious and creamy.
Is this Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip gluten-free?
The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour for thickening, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount of cornstarch) for a similar thickening effect.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Definitely! This Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip recipe is easy to scale up. Just make sure to use a larger saucepan and stir frequently to ensure even melting and a smooth, lump-free dip for a crowd.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing like sharing a bubbling bowl of Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip with friends and family—every scoop is a tiny celebration. Whether you keep it classic or add your own creative twists, this dip is guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a try at your next get-together and watch it disappear faster than you can say “queso!”
Print
Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Mexican White Cheese (Queso) Dip is a delicious blend of melted white American and Monterey Jack cheeses combined with mild green chilies and aromatic spices. Perfect as a warm appetizer, it pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or soft pretzels for an irresistible snack or party treat.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 ounces white American cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Flavorings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies (mild or hot, drained)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
- Optional: diced jalapeños for garnish
Instructions
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture is smooth and has slightly thickened.
- Melt the cheeses: Reduce heat to low and add the cubed white American cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the dip: Stir in the diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the dip.
- Keep warm and serve: Keep the dip warm over low heat until ready to serve. Garnish with optional chopped cilantro and diced jalapeños for extra freshness and spice. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or soft pretzels.
Notes
- For a spicier dip, use roasted green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture and prevent burning.
- To make a heartier version, stir in cooked crumbled chorizo before serving for extra flavor and protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
