This creamy queso dip is a party favorite, filled with melted cheese and just the right amount of spice. It’s perfect for dipping chips or veggies!
Honestly, I could eat this stuff every day. Just make sure you keep some chips nearby, or you might find yourself just spooning it straight out of the bowl! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: I like using butter for richness, but you can swap it with olive oil or even a non-dairy butter if needed. This keeps the dip creamy and adds flavor.
Onion: A finely chopped onion brings sweetness. If you’re in a rush, use green onions for a mild taste or omit entirely.
Jalapeño: For a kick, fresh jalapeño works great, but you can use poblano for less heat or even a pinch of cayenne pepper if that’s all you have.
Processed cheese: Velveeta is excellent for that creamy texture. If you want to avoid processed foods, try a mix of cream cheese and sharp cheddar instead.
Ground meat: The sausage adds heartiness. This is optional, so feel free to leave it out for a vegetarian version or substitute with black beans for protein.
How Can You Ensure Your Queso is Smooth and Creamy?
To achieve that velvety texture, the key is melting the cheese at a low temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to sauté the onions and peppers.
- Once you add the cheese, reduce the heat to low immediately. High heat can scorch the cheese and make it clumpy.
- Stir constantly until melted. This keeps everything creamy and prevents sticking.
Also, adding milk helps to create a smoother consistency, so don’t skip it!
Queso Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces processed cheese (like Velveeta), cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or ground beef (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Pico de gallo or diced fresh tomatoes and onions for topping
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious queso dip comes together in just 15 minutes! Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack when you have guests or just crave some cheesy goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and jalapeño pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This will add a lovely flavor to your dip!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. This just adds an amazing aroma to your dip!
3. Melt the Cheeses:
Now, reduce the heat to low and add the processed cheese cubes, shredded cheddar, and milk to the pan. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. If it seems a bit thick, feel free to add a little more milk!
4. Stir in Tomatoes and Meat:
Add the drained diced tomatoes and green chilies into the melted cheese mixture. If you’re adding in cooked sausage or ground beef, this is the time! Mix everything together well.
5. Season and Serve:
Season the dip with salt to taste. Then, remove it from heat and transfer it to a serving bowl. Top it off with fresh chopped cilantro and a generous spoonful of pico de gallo or diced fresh tomatoes for that extra pop of flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Surround your queso dip with tortilla chips and serve it warm. Get ready for everyone to dive in—enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta provides that iconic creaminess, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor. Just make sure to balance them with a creamier cheese for a smooth texture.
How Can I Make This Queso Dip Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. Alternatively, try using a spicier variety of peppers like serrano or even adding a splash of hot sauce in the mix!
Can I Make This Queso Dip Vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage or ground beef and make sure any cheese used is vegetarian-friendly. You can also add in some black beans or corn for more texture and protein!
How to Store Leftover Queso Dip?
Store any leftover queso dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens up. Stir well to return it to that creamy state.
