The Best Homemade Queso Dip Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade queso dip is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any gathering or snack time. It’s quick to make and tastes way better than store-bought versions, plus it’s super customizable to your taste.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have this dip ready in no time.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Its rich, velvety texture and cheesy goodness will have everyone reaching for more.
- Versatile and Fun: Pair it with chips, veggies, or drizzle it over your favorite dishes—it’s a game-changer!
Recipe
This homemade queso dip is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or casual snacking. Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and ready in just minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and jalapeño, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid curdling.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- If desired, stir in diced tomatoes and cilantro.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, vegetables, or as a topping for nachos.
Notes:
- For a spicier dip, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce.
- If the dip thickens upon standing, reheat gently and add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
Mexican-inspired
Serving:
Serves 6-8 as an appetizer
Nutrition
This homemade queso dip is a flavorful addition to any snack or meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
Calories: 180
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
What To Serve With It
When I make queso dip, I love pairing it with crispy tortilla chips and a side of creamy guacamole for the perfect combo. Fresh veggie platters, like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, add a nice crunch and balance to the richness. Both options make the dip even more fun to share with friends!
Chips and Guacamole
Though queso dip is delicious on its own, pairing it with crispy tortilla chips and fresh guacamole takes the experience to another level. I love the crunch of warm chips against the creamy dip, and a scoop of cool, tangy guacamole balances it perfectly. Homemade guac—mashed avocados with lime, cilantro, and a pinch of salt—adds a fresh twist. Store-bought chips work fine, but toasting them lightly in the oven makes them extra crisp. Trust me, once you try this combo, you won’t go back. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited!
Vegetable Platters
While chips and guacamole are a classic match for queso, I’ve found that veggie platters can be just as satisfying—and a bit healthier. I love arranging a colorful mix of crisp veggies like bell peppers, carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes. They add a fresh crunch that balances the creamy, cheesy dip perfectly. Broccoli florets and cucumber slices are also great options, and they’re so easy to prep. Sometimes, I’ll even throw in some jicama or zucchini sticks for fun. It’s a simple way to sneak in more veggies, and I’ve noticed my friends always reach for seconds!
