Description
This creamy and flavorful Pappasito’s Queso recipe is a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Made with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, sautéed onions and jalapeño, and enriched with milk and heavy cream, it creates a rich, smooth dip that’s ideal for serving warm with tortilla chips. A touch of fresh cilantro and optional diced tomatoes add a fresh and vibrant finish to this classic Tex-Mex appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Queso Base
- 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
Toppings and Serving
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Heat butter: Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until fully melted.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the finely diced yellow onion and chopped jalapeño to the butter and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add cheeses gradually: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, one handful at a time, stirring constantly to allow them to melt smoothly into the mixture.
- Add dairy: Pour in the 1/2 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth and creamy queso. If needed, add a little more milk to adjust the dip’s consistency to your preference.
- Season: Remove the pan from the heat and season the queso with salt to taste, stirring to combine well.
- Garnish: Transfer the queso dip to a serving dish and garnish with optional diced tomatoes and freshly chopped cilantro for added color and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the warm queso immediately alongside tortilla chips for dipping and enjoying this delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Removing jalapeño seeds reduces heat but retains flavor; adjust jalapeño quantity for desired spice level.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- For a thinner queso, gradually add more milk to reach preferred consistency.
- To keep queso warm longer, transfer to a small slow cooker or warming dish.
- Optional diced tomatoes and cilantro add freshness, but can be omitted if preferred.
