Introduction
If you’re looking for the perfect dip to elevate your next gathering or game day celebration, this creamy queso dip recipe is sure to please. Made with a delicious combination of cheeses, fire-roasted tomatoes, and spices, this dip is rich and flavorful. Paired with tortilla chips, bread, or your favorite dippers, it’s an irresistible appetizer that’s easy to prepare in a crockpot.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
30 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles (e.g., Rotel) or chunky salsa
24 ounces whole fat evaporated milk or unsweetened condensed milk
Juice of 1 whole lime
1 pound white American block-style cheese, cubed
1 pound yellow American block-style cheese, cubed
1 pound Velveeta Queso Blanco cheese, cubed
7 ounces Supremo Mexican Blend cheese, shredded
½ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 jalapeño peppers, seeded, ribs removed, diced
½ yellow onion, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 8-10 people
Directions
1. Spray a large crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté diced jalapeños and onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the sautéed jalapeños and onions to the crockpot.
4. Add fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles, evaporated milk, and lime juice to the crockpot.
5. Add cubed white American cheese, yellow American cheese, and Velveeta Queso Blanco cheese to the crockpot.
6. Sprinkle shredded Supremo Mexican Blend cheese over the top.
7. Add chopped fresh cilantro, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, and chili powder (if using).
8. Stir all ingredients to combine.
9. Cover and cook on high for 50 minutes, stirring every 10-15 minutes to ensure even melting and prevent burning.
10. Once the cheese is fully melted and the dip is smooth, switch the crockpot to the warm setting to keep the queso at serving temperature.
11. Serve warm with tortilla chips, bread, or your preferred dippers.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Spray a large crockpot with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the diced jalapeños and diced yellow onion. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Transfer Ingredients
Carefully transfer the sautéed jalapeños and onions from the skillet to the crockpot.
Step 4: Add Base Ingredients
To the crockpot, add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles, evaporated milk, and the juice of 1 whole lime.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheeses
Add the cubed white American cheese, yellow American cheese, and Velveeta Queso Blanco cheese to the crockpot.
Step 6: Add Shredded Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded Supremo Mexican Blend cheese evenly over the top of the other ingredients in the crockpot.
Step 7: Season the Mixture
Add the chopped fresh cilantro, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, and chili powder (if using) to the crockpot.
Step 8: Mix Ingredients
Stir all of the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring that the cheese and vegetables are evenly distributed.
Step 9: Cook the Dip
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 50 minutes. Stir the mixture every 10-15 minutes to ensure even melting and to prevent any burning on the bottom.
Step 10: Keep Warm
Once the cheese is fully melted and the dip is smooth, switch the crockpot to the warm setting to maintain the queso at serving temperature.
Step 11: Serve
Serve the warm queso dip with tortilla chips, bread, or your preferred dippers.
Notes
Cheese Variations
Feel free to mix different types of cheese according to your preference. Other varieties can add unique flavors.
Spice Level
Adjust the number of jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes to suit your desired heat level.
Storage
Leftover queso can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs well with vegetables, pretzels, or even drizzled over tacos or nachos for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Using a Crockpot
Crockpots, also known as slow cookers, are excellent for creating creamy dips and dishes. They allow ingredients to meld together and flavors to develop over time with minimal supervision.
Sauteing Vegetables
Sautéing jalapeños and onions before adding them to the crockpot enhances their flavors and softens their texture. This step adds depth to the dish and ensures that the vegetables are well-cooked.
Layering Ingredients
Layer the ingredients based on their cooking times and melting properties. This technique ensures that cheeses melt evenly and flavors combine well, leading to a smooth end product.
Stirring Regularly
Stirring every 10-15 minutes is crucial when using a crockpot. This ensures even melting of the cheese and prevents any ingredients from sticking to the sides and burning.
Using Fresh Herbs
Adding fresh cilantro at the end brightens the flavor of the dish. Fresh herbs should always be added toward the end of cooking to maintain their color and potency.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute other cheeses based on your preference. Just ensure that they melt well and contribute to a creamy texture.
Is it possible to make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and heat it up in the crockpot when you are ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dip?
This queso dip pairs well with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, bread, or even as a topping for nachos or tacos.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dip?
To adjust the spiciness, you can add more or fewer jalapeños or even include additional spices like cayenne pepper for added heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the crockpot or microwave before serving again.
Conclusion
The combination of rich cheeses, zesty tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously creamy dip that is perfect for any gathering. This queso dip is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm with your favorite dippers for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
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