Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Chili Con Queso Dip is a party favorite! Made with a blend of melted cheese, zesty spices, and green chilies, it’s the perfect appetizer for game days, gatherings, or movie nights.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for extra heat)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz processed cheese (Velveeta), cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and jalapeño (if using) and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the processed cheese cubes, stirring constantly until melted.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and heavy cream, mixing until the dip is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
- Season:
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve:
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl or a warmed slow cooker to keep it hot. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
Tips for Perfect Chili Con Queso
- Cheese Choices: Velveeta ensures a smooth texture, but feel free to mix in sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Keep Warm: Use a slow cooker to keep the dip warm and creamy during parties.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier dip.
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