Restarunt Style Queso

Indulge in the creamy, crowd-pleasing allure of Restaurant-Style Queso, a decadent dip that transforms your kitchen into a Tex-Mex paradise. Made with velvety white American cheese, a touch of whole milk and heavy cream for extra richness, and zesty additions like diced green chilies and pickled jalapeños, this queso delivers the perfect balance of smooth texture and bold flavor. A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and optional cayenne pepper adds a savory depth, while a garnish of fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness. Ready in just 15 minutes, this classic queso dip is perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. Serve it warm with crispy tortilla chips and watch it disappear within moments!

Nutriscore Rating: 42/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 16 ounces white American cheese
• 4 ounces diced green chilies (canned)
• 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños (diced)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 0.5 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 bag tortilla chips (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Cube the white American cheese into small pieces for easier melting.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced green chilies and pickled jalapeños to the saucepan. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cubed cheese, whole milk, and heavy cream to the saucepan.

Step 5

Stir continuously using a wooden spoon or whisk to ensure the cheese melts evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 6

Once the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.

Step 7

Allow the queso to cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spices are fully incorporated.

Step 8

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the queso cool slightly before serving. The dip will thicken as it cools.

Step 9

Transfer the queso to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

Step 10

Serve warm with tortilla chips and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1179.1 grams (1179.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3318

Total Fat 255.30g	327%
Saturated Fat 123.20g	616%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.60g
Cholesterol 668mg	223%
Sodium 9511mg	414%
Total Carbohydrate 172.40g	63%
Dietary Fiber 10.00g	36%
Total Sugars 31.40g
Protein 105.00g	210%

Vitamin D 114IU	571%
Calcium 3350mg	258%
Iron 7mg	36%
Potassium 1378mg	29%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 67.4%

Protein: 12.3%

Carbs: 20.2%