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Queso Dip (Mexican Cheese Dip)

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  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2.5 cups (about 10 servings)
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Queso Dip is a rich, smooth, and creamy Mexican cheese dip made with cheddar, evaporated milk, and flavorful spices. It’s quick, customizable, and stays silky even after cooling, making it perfect for parties, nachos, tacos, or snacking.


Ingredients

2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (tightly packed)

1 tbsp cornstarch (cornflour)

1/2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 large garlic clove, finely minced

1/4 small white onion, finely chopped (~1/4 cup)

1 can (375g / 13 oz) evaporated milk (not low-fat)

1 small tomato, finely diced (about 3/4 cup)

1/4 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp cumin

1 can (113g / 4 oz) fire-roasted chopped green chiles

1/4 cup cilantro (coriander), finely chopped

23 tbsp milk (any type, to loosen, as needed)

Salt, to taste


Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss shredded cheddar cheese with cornstarch to coat evenly.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent but not browned.
  4. Add diced tomato with juices; cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
  5. Pour in evaporated milk, then add shredded cheese. Stir until cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
  6. Stir in green chiles, onion powder, garlic powder, and cumin until well combined.
  7. Season with salt to taste and stir in chopped cilantro.
  8. If too thick, add 2–3 tbsp milk to adjust consistency. Dip will thicken as it cools.
  9. Remove from heat and serve warm or at room temperature with chips, nachos, or tacos.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese for the smoothest texture—pre-shredded cheese can make the dip grainy.
  • Use pepper jack or jalapeños for extra spice.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Can be frozen up to 3 months but reheat slowly for best texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg