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Mexican Restaurant-Style Cheese Dip


  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

This Mexican Restaurant-Style Cheese Dip is smooth, creamy, and packed with flavor—just like the one served at your favorite Mexican restaurant! Made with white American cheese, a touch of spice, and just the right amount of heat, it’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips, drizzling over nachos, or using as a topping for tacos and burritos. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this homemade queso is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering!


Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 pound white American cheese, cubed or shredded
  • ½ cup whole milk (plus more if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for extra heat)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ cup Rotel (diced tomatoes & green chilies) (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese – Cut the white American cheese into small cubes or shred it for faster melting. Drain excess liquid from the diced green chiles and Rotel (if using).
  2. Melt the cheese – In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the milk and butter. Slowly add the cheese, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
  3. Add seasonings – Stir in the diced green chiles, jalapeños (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
  4. Adjust consistency – If the dip is too thick, add more milk (one tablespoon at a time) until the desired texture is reached.
  5. Serve warm – Pour the cheese dip into a serving bowl and garnish with diced tomatoes, extra jalapeños, or chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes