This white queso recipe is perfect for those who love a creamy, rich, and flavorful cheese dip. It’s made with white American cheese, which melts beautifully into a smooth and velvety consistency. The addition of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapenos brings a fresh and zesty kick that elevates the flavor profile, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients:
For 1x Batch:
- ½ tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the onions, adding a mild flavor and ensuring they cook evenly.
- 1 pound shredded white American cheese: The star of the dish, providing a creamy, melty base for the queso.
- ¼ cup chopped sweet onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the queso.
- ¼ to ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adjusts the consistency of the queso, making it smoother and lighter.
- ½ cup finely diced fresh tomatoes: Brings freshness and a slight acidity to balance the richness of the cheese.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro: Adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the cheese and vegetables.
- 1 cup milk: Further smooths out the queso, making it rich and creamy.
- ½ to 1 jalapeno, de-seeded and minced: Provides a touch of heat, which can be adjusted to your preference.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
- In a medium saucepan, heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ¼ cup of chopped sweet onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the onions from burning.
2. Melt the Cheese:
- Lower the heat to medium-low, and gradually add the 1 pound of shredded white American cheese to the saucepan, stirring constantly. The cheese will begin to melt into a smooth, creamy consistency. Be patient and continue stirring to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Add Milk and Broth:
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk, stirring continuously to incorporate it into the melted cheese. The milk helps to thin out the queso, making it smooth and pourable.
- Depending on the desired consistency, add ¼ to ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Start with ¼ cup and add more if you prefer a thinner queso. Stir until the liquid is fully combined and the queso is smooth.
4. Incorporate Fresh Ingredients:
- Once the cheese mixture is smooth, stir in the ½ cup of finely diced fresh tomatoes, ¼ cup of chopped cilantro, and the minced jalapeno (adjust the amount based on your heat preference). Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the queso.
5. Season the Queso:
- Taste the queso and season it with salt and black pepper as needed. The amount of salt may vary depending on the saltiness of the cheese, so start with a small amount and adjust accordingly.
6. Serve:
- Transfer the queso to a serving bowl and garnish with additional chopped cilantro or diced tomatoes if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or warm soft pretzels for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Selection: If you can’t find white American cheese, you can substitute with Monterey Jack or a mix of white cheddar and mozzarella for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Spice Level: For a spicier queso, leave the seeds in the jalapeno or add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Tomato Option: If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes (drained) or Rotel for added flavor.
- Cilantro Substitute: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using fresh parsley or green onions as a garnish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the queso ahead of time and reheat it over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the queso becomes too thick upon reheating.
This white queso recipe is the ultimate creamy cheese dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a game day, or just craving a delicious snack, this queso is sure to be a hit. With its rich, velvety texture and the fresh flavors of tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeno, it’s a step above your standard cheese dip. The ease of preparation and the ability to adjust the spice level to suit your preference make this recipe a versatile favorite. Serve it warm and watch it disappear as your guests scoop up every last bit with their chips and veggies!
