Creamy White Queso Dip (Print Version)

Smooth, cheesy white dip with jalapeños and spices. Perfect for parties and gatherings.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dairy

01 - 2 cups shredded white American cheese
02 - ½ cup whole milk
03 - ¼ cup heavy cream
04 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

05 - 1 small jalapeño, finely diced
06 - ¼ cup canned diced green chilies, drained
07 - ¼ cup finely diced onion
08 - 1 garlic clove, minced

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
10 - ⅛ teaspoon chili powder
11 - Salt and white pepper to taste

# Directions:

01 - Combine milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring just to a simmer without boiling.
02 - Add cream cheese to the hot milk mixture, whisking until fully melted and smooth.
03 - Gradually stir in shredded white American cheese a handful at a time, whisking constantly until completely melted and the dip is smooth.
04 - Stir in diced jalapeño, green chilies, onion, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until vegetables soften.
05 - Add ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and white pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Reduce heat to low and keep warm until serving, stirring occasionally. If dip thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk. Serve warm with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or as a nacho topping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The texture transforms into restaurant-style silky smooth cheese dip that coats every chip perfectly
  • It comes together in 20 minutes flat, but tastes like it simmered all afternoon
  • You can adjust the heat level from family-friendly mild to please-everyone spicy
02 -
  • White American cheese can be tricky to find at regular stores, so ask at the deli counter or substitute with Monterey Jack if necessary
  • Never turn the heat above medium or the dairy can separate and turn grainy
  • The dip thickens as it cools, so keep it warm on the lowest setting or transfer to a slow cooker
03 -
  • Grate your own cheese from blocks instead of buying pre-shredded bags for the smoothest melting texture
  • Room temperature cream cheese incorporates faster and more smoothly than cold straight from the fridge
  • A splash of pickle juice or lime juice at the end cuts through the richness beautifully

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