Name: White Queso Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound (16 oz) white American cheese, sliced or shredded; 1 cup whole milk; ¼ cup diced canned green chiles, drained; 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño juice (from the jar); ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon ground cumin (optional); Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes, for garnish (optional); Tortilla chips, for serving

Get ready for the most addictive, ultra-creamy, restaurant-style White Queso Recipe! One dunk, and you'll be hooked-silky smooth cheese melded with just the right kick of spice and a hint of garlic. This is the white queso you crave from your favorite Mexican spot, but it's so ridiculously easy to make at home.

Forget grainy, lackluster queso. This one stays perfectly gooey and dippable, thanks to a quick stovetop method and just a handful of ingredients you can find anywhere. Whether you're throwing a game-day bash, need a killer snack for movie night, or want a surefire party appetizer, this queso has you covered.

Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes! My Tex-Mex-loving family requests this cheesy dip every taco night, and trust me-yours will, too.

Bowl of irresistibly creamy white queso dip with tortilla chips

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ultra creamy and silky texture-never grainy or greasy!
Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort
Customizable heat level, from mild to spicy
Perfect crowd-pleaser for parties, game days, or anytime snacking

Key Ingredients for White Queso Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

White American Cheese

This is the secret to that classic smooth and stretchy queso texture. White American cheese melts perfectly, creating a luxurious base that never gets gritty. Look for it sliced fresh at the deli counter, as pre-packaged versions can be waxy. If you can't find white American, mild white cheddar or Monterey Jack can be substituted, but the texture will be a bit less silky.

Whole Milk

Milk helps thin the cheese to the perfect dipping consistency while adding a luscious creaminess. Whole milk is ideal for richness, but 2 percent works in a pinch-just avoid skim or fat-free, as they make the queso less smooth.

Diced Green Chiles

These mild, canned chiles add a subtle, tangy flavor and a little depth without adding too much heat. Make sure to drain them well before adding. For more heat, swap with diced jalapeños or use fresh roasted peppers.

Pickled Jalapeño Juice

Just a splash of juice from a jar of pickled jalapeños elevates the queso with tang and a gentle heat. If you like things spicy, chop up a couple of the pickled jalapeños themselves to toss in, too. Lime juice can be subbed for a tangy (but not spicy) version.

Garlic Powder

A little garlic powder deepens the flavor and adds a subtle savory kick. You can use fresh garlic (finely minced and sautéed for a minute), but powder dissolves perfectly and is no-fuss.

Instructions for White Queso Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Cheese

Start by slicing or shredding your white American cheese. Getting the cheese into small pieces helps it melt evenly and quickly-no lumps, no fuss!

Heat the Milk

In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the whole milk until just steaming. Don't let it boil; gentle heating prevents the cheese from breaking or getting gritty.

Melt in the Cheese

Add the prepared white American cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly. Keep the heat medium-low and stir until the cheese is melted completely and the mixture looks smooth and glossy.

Add Flavor Boosters

Stir in the diced green chiles, pickled jalapeño juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin (if using). Mix thoroughly and let the queso heat for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until everything is piping hot and bubbly.

Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste your queso and add salt if needed. If the dip is too thick, splash in a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency. Pour into a serving bowl, garnish with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes if you like, and serve immediately with plenty of tortilla chips!

Recipe Variations

Spice It Up

Love a little extra heat? Add a finely diced fresh jalapeño or several dashes of hot sauce along with the green chiles to really turn up the spice.

Make It Extra Creamy

For an ultra-rich, restaurant-style dip, stir in one or two ounces of cream cheese with the cheese. It makes the queso even silkier and gives a lush mouthfeel.

Mix in Protein

Add crumbled, cooked chorizo or taco-seasoned ground beef for a hearty queso dip that can double as a meal for nachos or tacos.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Queso

Swap out the dairy cheese and milk for your favorite meltable vegan cheese and unsweetened almond or cashew milk. Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast and a pinch of turmeric for color and flavor.

Gluten-Free Friendly

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just make sure to check your cheese and add-ins for hidden gluten or anti-caking agents.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your white queso piping hot alongside a giant bowl of crispy tortilla chips for dipping-an absolute must for parties and game day feasts! It also makes an amazing topping for burritos, nachos, or loaded fries. For extra flair, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro, pico de gallo, or sliced jalapeños.

Storage and Reheating

Cool any leftover queso to room temperature and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well each time, until hot and smooth. Or, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen. Queso doesn't freeze well, as it may become grainy-so enjoy fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions About White Queso Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of deli-sliced?

A: Pre-shredded cheese usually has anti-caking agents that prevent ultra-smooth melting. For the best creamy texture, get white American cheese sliced fresh at the deli.

Q: Is white queso gluten-free?

A: Yes, this white queso recipe is naturally gluten-free, just double-check your cheese and mix-ins to be certain.

Q: Can I keep queso warm for a party?

A: Absolutely! Pour the finished queso into a slow cooker or fondue pot on "warm" and stir occasionally to keep it silky and dippable.

Ready to wow your guests and satisfy every cheese craving? This White Queso Recipe is creamy, comforting, and so easy-it's guaranteed to disappear fast! Don't forget to leave a comment or rating if you try it. Happy dipping!