Sides

Queso Blanco

This creamy and spicy Queso Blanco is the perfect game day or get-together dip. Made with white American cheese, jalapenos, and a touch of cumin, it's rich, flavorful, and ideal for dipping chips, veggies, or bread. A crowd-pleaser that’s ready in just 15 minutes!

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Prep
5 minutes
Cook
10 minutes
Total
15 minutes
Serves
8
people
Author
Cody Landry
Queso Blanco
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This Queso Blanco is a rich and creamy white cheese dip that’s incredibly smooth, with just the right amount of spice from diced jalapenos and a hint of cumin. The blend of white American cheese, half and half, and seasonings creates a warm, flavorful dip that's perfect for parties, game nights, or as a savory topping for your favorite Mexican dishes. It’s easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

What You Can Dip in the Queso

  • Tortilla Chips: A classic choice for queso.
  • Vegetables: Try sliced bell peppers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or broccoli florets.
  • Pretzels: Soft or hard pretzels pair wonderfully with queso.
  • Bread: Cubed French bread or soft breadsticks are delicious options.
  • Crackers: Choose any type, from plain to flavored, for an extra crunch.

How to Keep the Queso Warm

  • Slow Cooker: Transfer the queso to a slow cooker on the "warm" setting to keep it melted and smooth throughout serving.
  • Fondue Pot: A fondue pot is another great option that maintains a consistent temperature.
  • Double Boiler Method: Place the queso in a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water to keep it warm without burning.

Additions or Substitutions for Queso

  • Additions:
    • Tomatoes: Add some diced tomatoes for a fresh, tangy flavor.
    • Green Chiles: Include canned green chiles for a mild heat and extra flavor.
    • Ground Beef or Chorizo: Brown and crumble these meats, then mix them in for a heartier queso.
    • Fresh Cilantro: Stir in chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
  • Substitutions:
    • Cheese: Substitute white American cheese with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or queso fresco for a different flavor profile.
    • Half and Half: Use whole milk or evaporated milk for a lighter option, or heavy cream for an even richer dip.
    • Spice Level: Swap cayenne pepper for smoked paprika for a milder flavor, or add chopped fresh jalapenos, serrano peppers, or hot sauce to kick up the heat.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb deli white American cheese, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
  • 2-3 petite diced jalapenos (adjust to taste)
  • Directions

    1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the chopped white American cheese and half and half. Stir constantly until the cheese begins to melt and smooth out.
    2. Once the cheese is mostly melted, stir in the cumin, salt, black pepper, and ground red pepper (cayenne) until well combined.
    3. Add the diced jalapenos and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the queso is completely smooth and creamy.
    4. Serve warm with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or drizzle over your favorite dishes.