Name: Pappasito’s Queso Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced; 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup milk (plus more if needed); 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for topping); 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; Tortilla chips, for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.2 from 45 reviews

If you are craving a warm, melty, and utterly comforting dip that feels like a big, festive hug, then you simply must try the Pappasito’s Queso Recipe. This beloved authentic Tex-Mex cheese dip combines sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, and just the right kick of jalapeño, delivering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for more. It’s easy enough to whip up in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for a casual get-together or even a simple snack to indulge in anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Pappasito’s Queso Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together to create its irresistible charm. Each ingredient adds its own unique contribution—whether it’s the buttery softness of sautéed onions or the creamy richness of cheese and cream, every element is essential to hitting that signature smooth, cheesy perfection.

Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): This is the starting point for sautéing, adding a lovely savory base without overpowering the flavors.
Yellow onion, finely diced (1/2 cup): The onions bring a subtle sweetness and depth when softened gently.
Small jalapeño, finely chopped (1, seeds removed for less heat): Adds a gentle, fresh heat that livens up the queso without overwhelming it.
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups): Gives bold, tangy flavor and vibrant color—key for that classic queso taste.
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (1 cup): Contributes a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that mellows the sharp cheddar.
Milk (1/2 cup, plus more if needed): Helps achieve a smooth and pourable consistency for easy dipping.
Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Adds extra richness, making the queso decadently smooth.
Diced tomatoes (1/4 cup, optional): Used as a colorful, fresh topping that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Fresh cilantro, chopped (2 tablespoons): Brings a fragrant, herbal note that complements the cheese beautifully.
Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing every flavor in this simple but delicious dip.
Tortilla chips (for serving): The perfect crunchy vehicle for scooping up that luscious queso.

How to Make Pappasito’s Queso Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the finely diced onion and jalapeño. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are softened and release their wonderful fragrant aroma. This step lays the flavor foundation for the queso, balancing sweetness and spice perfectly.

Step 2: Gradually Incorporate the Cheeses

Turn the heat down to medium-low and slowly add in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, one handful at a time. Stir constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly without clumping. This slow addition is what helps create that signature creamy texture that makes Pappasito’s Queso Recipe stand out.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cream for Creaminess

Next, pour in the milk followed by the heavy cream while stirring continuously. This step brings everything together into that irresistibly smooth and luscious dip. Don’t hesitate to add a touch more milk if the mixture feels too thick—achieving the perfect queso consistency is all about that creamy flow.

Step 4: Season and Finish

Once your queso is smooth and perfectly melted, remove it from the heat and season with salt to taste. This final adjustment is crucial to bring out all the underlying flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the spicy, creamy queso to a serving dish and garnish with optional diced tomatoes and fresh chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness and color. Serve it immediately with plenty of crunchy tortilla chips for dipping and savor every cheesy bite.

How to Serve Pappasito’s Queso Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro are the go-to garnishes for Pappasito’s Queso Recipe, you can also sprinkle a bit of chopped green onion or even a pinch of smoky paprika to add extra flair. These little touches enhance both the look and the flavor, making your queso look as vibrant as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This queso dip shines brightest when paired with crunchy tortilla chips, but don’t stop there! It also pairs beautifully with freshly made salsa, guacamole, or even warm, soft flour tortillas. For a heartier snack or appetizer spread, add some grilled fajita veggies or smoky chorizo alongside for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving the Pappasito’s Queso Recipe in a warmed crockpot is a fantastic idea for parties—it keeps the cheese delightfully melty for hours. You can also hollow out a small round loaf of bread and use it as an edible bowl for an impressive presentation. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a little hot sauce or a squeeze of lime over the top to take things up a notch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pappasito’s Queso Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the cheese will firm up as it cools, so it will need gentle reheating to bring back that molten smoothness.

Freezing

While freezing queso isn’t ideal because the texture can change slightly, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place the dip in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat your stored queso, warm it slowly over low heat on the stove or in a microwave at short intervals, stirring often. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating helps restore the silky texture and keeps it from becoming dry or clumpy.

FAQs

Can I make Pappasito’s Queso Recipe spicier?

Absolutely! You can keep the jalapeño seeds for more heat or add finely diced serrano peppers. Adding a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce into the mix also amps up the spice without altering the creamy texture.

What if I don’t have Monterey Jack cheese?

If Monterey Jack isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with mozzarella or even a mild provolone. Just pick a cheese that melts smoothly and has a mild flavor to balance the sharp cheddar in the recipe.

Is Pappasito’s Queso Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free tortilla chips and check that all ingredients don’t contain any hidden gluten. It’s a safe and delicious option for gluten-sensitive guests!

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

While this queso relies heavily on cheese and cream, you can experiment with vegan cheese blends and dairy-free cream alternatives like cashew cream. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ from the classic Pappasito’s Queso Recipe but can still be delicious with some tweaking.

How long does the queso stay warm at a party?

If kept in a warmed crockpot or slow cooker set to low, the queso can stay melty and warm for 2 to 3 hours. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from separating or sticking to the sides.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about serving up a bowl of Pappasito’s Queso Recipe to friends and family—it brings people together with its rich, creamy goodness and festive flavors. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a cozy snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite queso dip!