There’s nothing like the smooth, creamy, and mildly spicy Mexican Restaurant Cheese Dip you get with a basket of warm tortilla chips. Known as queso blanco, this white cheese dip is a fan-favorite appetizer for any Tex-Mex meal—and the good news? You can easily recreate it at home with just a few simple ingredients!
Perfect for game nights, taco bars, Cinco de Mayo, or as a crowd-pleasing starter, this restaurant-style dip comes together in under 15 minutes. It’s rich, velvety, and endlessly dippable—everything queso should be!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb white American cheese, shredded or cubed (from deli counter, not sliced)
- ½ cup whole milk (plus more as needed)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, undrained
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1–2 tablespoons diced pickled jalapeños (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: chopped cilantro or diced tomatoes for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Prep the Cheese
- Cut the white American cheese into small cubes if not pre-shredded. This helps it melt evenly without clumps.
Step 2: Warm the Base
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, add the milk and heavy cream. Warm gently, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Do not let it boil.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
- Add cheese gradually to the warm milk, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Use a whisk or silicone spatula to stir and prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Flavor
- Stir in the green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, and diced jalapeños if using. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
Step 5: Adjust Texture
- If the dip is too thick, stir in a splash of milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Keep over low heat until ready to serve.
Variation:
- Spicy Queso: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or hot sauce for more kick
- Loaded Queso: Stir in cooked chorizo or ground beef for a hearty version
- Vegan Option: Use vegan white cheese and non-dairy milk alternatives
- Smooth Finish: Blend with an immersion blender for ultra-creamy results
- Beer Queso: Replace half the milk with a light Mexican beer for added depth
COOKING Note:
Always melt the cheese over low heat to prevent it from separating or becoming grainy. Stir often for the smoothest texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, warm pretzels, or soft pita
- Use as a topping for nachos, tacos, or burrito bowls
- Drizzle over grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or baked potatoes
- Pair with refried beans or Spanish rice for a quick side
- Create a queso bar with toppings like pico de gallo, jalapeños, and cilantro
Tips:
- Use deli-counter American cheese—it melts better than processed slices
- Add more milk 1 tablespoon at a time to thin if it thickens while cooling
- Keep it warm in a small slow cooker or fondue pot for parties
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days—reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk
- Avoid high heat—it will make the cheese dip gritty or oily
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per ¼ cup serving – approx. 8 servings):
- Calories: ~170
- Protein: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
- Fat: ~15g
- Sodium: ~400mg
- Sugar: ~1g
Nutrition values will vary slightly based on specific cheese and milk used.
❓FAQs
Can I use Velveeta instead of American cheese?
- You can, but the flavor and texture will be different. White American cheese provides the classic restaurant-style taste.
How do I keep the queso smooth when reheating?
- Add a tablespoon of milk and reheat gently on low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling.
What’s the best cheese for authentic flavor?
- White American cheese from the deli counter is best. It melts smoothly and has the creamy texture found in most restaurants.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
- Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly with added milk to bring back creaminess.
Is this the same as queso blanco?
- Yes, “queso blanco” simply means white cheese. This recipe is a restaurant-style white cheese dip.
Conclusion:
If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate that irresistible Mexican Restaurant Cheese Dip, this recipe is your answer. It’s everything you love about queso: rich, creamy, and perfect for dipping or pouring over your favorite dishes.
With minimal ingredients and easy stovetop prep, this white queso is a must-have for any taco night, game day, or festive gathering. Once you make it at home, you’ll never go back to the jarred stuff again