Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Greatest Queso is a rich, creamy cheese dip that blends bold flavors and smooth textures into one irresistible bowl. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in, this queso combines melty cheese, spicy peppers, and savory add-ins for a dip that’s endlessly scoopable and guaranteed to impress. Serve it with tortilla chips, drizzle over nachos, or use it as a topping—it’s versatile and addictively delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

white American cheeseshredded Monterey Jack cheeseevaporated milkgreen chiles (diced)canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)jalapeño (finely chopped)garlic powderonion powdercuminbutteroptional: cooked chorizo or ground beeffresh cilantro (for garnish)

directions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the jalapeño and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.

Stir in the evaporated milk and bring to a gentle simmer.

Gradually add the white American cheese and Monterey Jack, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.

Mix in the diced green chiles, canned tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.

Reduce heat to low and stir frequently to keep the queso from sticking.

If using, stir in cooked chorizo or ground beef at this stage.

Continue cooking for 3-5 more minutes until heated through and flavors are combined.

Transfer to a serving bowl or a small slow cooker to keep warm.

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 cups of queso.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Add a splash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for more flavor depth.
Substitute milk for evaporated milk for a slightly lighter version.
Stir in black beans or corn for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

What kind of cheese is best for queso?
White American cheese is ideal for creaminess and meltability, while Monterey Jack adds flavor and texture.

Can I make this queso in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low heat, stirring occasionally until melted and smooth.

How do I make it spicier?
Add more jalapeños, use hot canned chiles, or stir in your favorite hot sauce.

Is this queso gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all canned and packaged ingredients are verified gluten-free.

Can I freeze queso?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen. Thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly, stirring well to smooth it out.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit any meat additions.

What if my queso is too thick?
Stir in a bit of milk or more evaporated milk to reach your desired consistency.

What if it’s too thin?
Let it simmer a few more minutes uncovered, or stir in extra shredded cheese.

What chips go best with queso?
Sturdy tortilla chips or scoops are ideal for holding up to thick, cheesy dip.

How long can queso sit out?
Try to keep it warm and eat within 2 hours. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.

Conclusion

The Greatest Queso lives up to its name with bold flavor, creamy texture, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or indulging in a cheesy snack, this recipe delivers every time. It’s a must-have in any party spread or Tex-Mex night lineup—simple to make, impossible to resist.