Quarterback Queso Dip Jalapenos (Printable)
A creamy, spicy cheese dip featuring jalapeños, ideal for game day or any festive gathering.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dairy
01 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
02 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
→ Vegetables
05 - 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
06 - 1 small onion, finely diced
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pantry Staples
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Garnish
14 - 1 jalapeño, sliced into rings
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
# How-To Steps:
01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the finely diced small onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the 2 minced garlic cloves and the 2 finely diced jalapeños; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
02 - Sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a light roux.
03 - Slowly whisk in the 1 cup of whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to visibly thicken, which should take approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese and whisk until it is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
05 - Gradually add the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring continuously until both cheeses are completely melted and the dip achieves a creamy consistency.
06 - Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Taste the dip and adjust seasoning as needed to your preference.
07 - Transfer the warm queso dip to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with 1 sliced jalapeño and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You get that perfect balance of creamy and spicy, without needing a million ingredients.
- It's the kind of dish that disappears faster than you can say 'touchdown!'
02 -
- Always shred your own cheese; the pre-shredded stuff has additives that make for a grainy, less melty dip.
- A low and slow approach to melting the cheese prevents it from seizing up and keeps your queso perfectly smooth.
03 -
- If your queso ever seems a little too thick, whisk in a tablespoon or two of warm milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding a tiny splash of beer (like a light lager) when you add the milk; it adds a subtle depth.