This White Cheese Dip —also known as Mexican white queso —is the ultimate creamy, dreamy dip that brings together rich cheese, smoky spices, and a hint of heat. Made with real deli-sliced American cheese, green chiles, and warm cumin, it’s smooth, scoopable, and perfect for any party or taco night.
It’s a restaurant-style dip you can make at home in just 30 minutes—two ways!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧀 Creamy & Smooth: Deli American cheese gives that silky texture everyone craves.
- 🌶️ Zesty & Smoky: Green chiles and optional chipotle powder bring bold Tex-Mex flavor.
- 🥣 Two Easy Methods: Make it on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.
- 🍴 Totally Customizable: Add chorizo, tomatoes, or herbs for endless variety.
Ingredients (Makes about 2 cups):
For the Queso:
- 1 pound white American cheese , sliced thin (from the deli counter)
- ⅔ cup milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 3–4 tablespoons canned chopped green chiles (or jalapeños for more heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional, for smoky depth)
Optional Toppings & Mix-Ins:
- Fresh cilantro , chopped
- Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- Crumbled chorizo or seasoned ground beef
- A splash of hot sauce (if you like it spicier!)
Instructions:
Method 1: Slow Cooker Method
- Set your slow cooker to the lowest setting (warm or low) .
- Add all ingredients—cheese slices , milk , green chiles , cumin , and chipotle powder if using.
- Cover and cook for 30–45 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Stir well before serving and keep on warm setting during serving.
Method 2: Stovetop Double Boiler Method
- Fill a saucepan with 2 inches of water and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Place a heat-safe bowl over the pan, making sure the bottom doesn’t touch the water.
- In the bowl, combine milk , chiles , cumin , and chipotle powder .
- Heat gently, then begin adding the American cheese slices , one or two at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is fully melted before adding more.
- Once all the cheese is incorporated and the dip is smooth, remove from heat and serve immediately.
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Real Cheese: Avoid pre-shredded or processed cheeses—they often clump.
- 🧄 Slice Thinly: Thin slices melt faster and more evenly.
- 🔥 Spice Level Control: Swap mild chiles for hotter ones or add a dash of cayenne.
- 🥛 Keep It Warm: Serve in a fondue pot or slow cooker to maintain the perfect dipping consistency.
- 🍴 Stir Often: Especially when using the slow cooker, to prevent separation or scorching.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Dippers: Tortilla chips, pretzel bites, or raw veggies like carrots and peppers.
- Over Nachos: Drizzle over loaded nachos for that gooey finish.
- On Burgers & Tacos: Take your favorite dishes to the next level with a cheesy drizzle.
- Breakfast Boost: Stir into scrambled eggs or pour over breakfast burritos.
Creative Leftover Ideas:
- Tex-Mex Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Stir into macaroni for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Fries: Pour over crispy fries or roasted potatoes.
- Burrito Upgrade: Use as a creamy layer in wraps or burrito bowls.
- Queso Scrambled Eggs: Stir into eggs for a flavorful breakfast.
Nutritional Information (per ¼ cup serving, approx. 8 servings):
- Calories: ~160 kcal
- Protein: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~3g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~1g
This Mexican White Cheese Dip is everything you want in a queso—it’s rich, creamy, and packed with zesty, smoky flavor. Whether you’re hosting game day snacks or enjoying a cozy movie night, this dip is guaranteed to be a hit.
Make it once and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!