Queso Dip
AI-generated image
Vegetarian Gluten-free Tex-Mex

Queso Dip

A silky Tex-Mex cheese dip made with evaporated milk, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack, brightened with jalapeño, tomato, lime, and cilantro. It stays smooth and spoonable for chips, tacos, or a party spread.

27 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Toss the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack with the cornstarch until every shred is lightly coated. This coating should look even and dry, with no large clumps.
2
Warm 60 ml of the evaporated milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and jalapeño and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring, until the onion softens without browning.
3
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Whisk in the remaining 180 ml evaporated milk and the salt, then bring it just to a gentle simmer; do not let it boil.
4
Lower the heat and add the cheese mixture one small handful at a time, whisking constantly and waiting for each addition to melt before adding more. Continue for 4 to 5 minutes, until the queso is glossy and thick enough to coat a spoon.
Glossy queso cheese sauce coating a spoon in a saucepan AI-generated image
5
Remove the saucepan from the heat and fold in the diced tomato, cilantro, and lime juice. Taste and adjust the salt while the dip is still warm and fluid.
6
Transfer the queso to a warm serving bowl and serve immediately with the corn tortilla chips. If the dip thickens as it stands, stir in a splash of warm milk before serving.
Bowl of golden queso dip with tomato, cilantro, jalapeño, and tortilla chips AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Evaporated milk provides concentrated dairy flavor without excess water, while cornstarch coats the grated cheese proteins and helps the cheddar and Monterey Jack melt into a stable, glossy sauce. Fresh jalapeño, tomato, lime, and cilantro keep the rich dip balanced.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate cooled queso in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

How to reheat it

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until smooth; do not boil.

Nutrition / serving

540kcal
22.77 gprotein
37.40 gcarbs
33.58 gfat
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Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 15 Aug 2026 · updated 15 Aug 2026