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The Best Easy Queso Dip Recipe (Quick & Creamy)

The Best Easy Queso Dip Recipe (Quick & Creamy)

This quick stovetop queso combines melted processed cheese, undrained tomatoes with green chiles, milk, and warm spices for a creamy dip ready in about 15 to 20 minutes. It makes approximately 3 cups, or 6 to 8 servings.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 16 ounces Velveeta or other processed American cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 1 10-ounce can Diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
  • 1/2 cup Evaporated milk, whole milk, or half-and-half
Seasonings
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic powder
Optional Add-Ins
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small pepper Small jalapeño, finely minced

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Cut the processed cheese into small, even cubes so it melts quickly and evenly.
  2. Add the cheese cubes and milk to a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently until the cheese is mostly melted and smooth, taking care not to let the mixture boil.
  3. Stir in the undrained tomatoes with green chiles, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Continue heating for 2 to 4 minutes, stirring until the queso is creamy and fully combined.
  4. Stir in the chopped cilantro and minced jalapeño if using. Taste carefully and serve immediately with tortilla chips.
  5. Keep the queso warm over very low heat and stir occasionally. If it thickens as it sits, add a small splash of warm milk and stir until smooth.

Notes

Keep the heat low throughout cooking because high heat can make the queso grainy or cause the milk to separate. Use the liquid from the canned tomatoes and green chiles for flavor and to help loosen the dip. For a thinner dip while reheating, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time. A white queso variation can use 1 pound of white American cheese, and 1/2 pound of browned ground beef or sausage can be added for a heartier version.