Chili Con Queso is a creamy, cheesy dip that’s packed with flavor! It’s made with gooey cheese, zesty chili, and a hint of spices, making it perfect for dipping chips.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist when this dip is warming up! I love serving it at parties, and I’m pretty sure everyone else does too. Just grab some tortilla chips and enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Processed Cheese: Velveeta is a common choice for its meltability. If you prefer a natural option, try using a block of cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack, but you may need to add a bit more milk to achieve creaminess.
Onion: I typically use yellow onion for sweetness, but if you’re short on time, you can substitute with onion powder or shallots for a different flavor profile.
Chili Powder and Cumin: These spices add warmth and depth to the queso. If you want less heat, use mild chili powder, or for some extra kick, try adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Green Chilies: Diced green chilies are a must for flavor. If you can’t find them, consider using jalapeños or even diced tomatoes with green chilies for a different twist.
How Do I Keep My Queso Smooth and Creamy?
To prevent your cheese from clumping and becoming grainy, it’s essential to melt it slowly. Start on low heat and stir continuously. Here’s how:
- Melt the butter and sauté the onion and garlic first to build flavor.
- Add the cheeses and milk when the pan is on low heat. Mix constantly until the cheese is completely melted.
- If the queso is too thick, you can easily thin it out with a splash of milk.
Remember, the goal is to have a velvety texture, so patience is key!
How to Make Chili Con Queso
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 8 oz processed cheese (such as Velveeta), cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup evaporated milk or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Optional: sliced jalapeños and chopped tomatoes (as a side or mix-in)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, giving you a quick and delicious dip ready to enjoy in no time! Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This is where the base flavor for your queso builds!
2. Add the Garlic and Chilies:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the diced green chilies and cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
3. Melt the Cheeses:
Now it’s time to get cheesy! Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed processed cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and the evaporated milk (or whole milk) into the pan. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Season the Queso:
Mix in the chili powder, cumin, and salt to taste. Make sure everything is well combined and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Keep It Warm:
Keep the queso warm on very low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. It’s better to serve it warm for dipping!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the queso to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with tortilla chips and set out sliced jalapeños and chopped tomatoes on the side if you like a little extra kick!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Chili Con Queso dip, perfect for any snack time or party! It’s sure to be a hit!
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Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While processed cheese like Velveeta gives a smooth texture, you can substitute with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination. Just remember to adjust the milk slightly to achieve the desired creaminess.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re in the mood for some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You could also incorporate some cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy kick!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead and sauté the onions and garlic. Store them in the fridge, and then just mix everything and heat it up when you’re ready to serve. Keep in mind that you may need to add a little extra milk when reheating to keep the queso smooth.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftover Chili Con Queso can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a little milk to restore its creamy texture if needed.
