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Cheesy Queso Dip Recipe

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4.1 from 1 review

This creamy and flavorful Queso Dip combines sharp cheddar cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and a blend of spices for a perfect party appetizer. Smooth and cheesy with a hint of spice, it’s ideal for serving warm with tortilla chips.

Ingredients

Cheese & Dairy

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, shredded fresh (do not use pre-shredded)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • ¼ cup onion, diced small
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 10 ounces Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 3 teaspoons original taco seasoning

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Over medium heat, melt the butter in a pan. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about three minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Stir regularly to prevent burning.
  2. Add Rotel Tomatoes: Pour in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes and mix well with the sautéed aromatics.
  3. Add Dairy: Stir in the evaporated milk and cream cheese, allowing the cream cheese to soften and start melting into the mixture.
  4. Incorporate Cheese and Cornstarch: Combine the cornstarch with the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, then add this mixture to the pan. Stir thoroughly to blend and encourage smooth melting.
  5. Season the Dip: Add garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and the original taco seasoning. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the dip.
  6. Serve: Continue stirring occasionally until the cheese has completely melted and the dip is smooth and creamy. Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for the best melting texture; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents which prevent smooth melting.
  • Stir frequently during cooking to avoid burning the cheese on the bottom of the pan.
  • Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to taste for desired spice level.
  • This dip is best served immediately but can be kept warm on low heat or in a slow cooker for a short time.