Description
The ultimate creamy, spicy, customizable queso dip—perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you crave cheesy comfort. A Southern classic meets Tex-Mex flair in one gooey bowl.
Ingredients
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
4 oz cream cheese
½ cup milk or half-and-half
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
1 tsp cornstarch
Optional: caramelized onions
Optional: scallions
Optional: jalapeños
Optional: hot sauce
Instructions
1. Start with a small saucepan on medium heat. Add the cream cheese and ¼ cup milk, stirring constantly until it melts.
2. Add shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until smooth after each addition. Add remaining milk to adjust texture.
3. Stir in cornstarch and paprika until fully combined.
4. Fold in diced tomatoes with green chilies and any optional add-ins like jalapeños.
5. Keep heat low and stir for 5–7 minutes until smooth and stretchy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with hot sauce or extra spices if desired.
7. Serve in a warm bowl or crockpot with chips, bread, or veggies.
Notes
If queso thickens over time, simply stir in a splash of milk to loosen.
Try adding roasted poblanos, sautéed mushrooms, or different cheeses like gouda for unique variations.
For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and evaporated skim milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: queso dip, cheese dip, party appetizer, Tex-Mex, game day snack