Queso
Craving something cheesy and comforting? This queso recipe is a delightful blend of melted cheese, spices, and fresh ingredients, making it an irresistible dip for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this creamy queso is sure to please everyone. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or veggies!
Ingredients
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of Velveeta cheese, cubed
– 1 cup of milk
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– 1 teaspoon of chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1/2 cup) contains about 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and shredded cheddar to the saucepan.
3. Pour in the milk and stir continuously until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Mix in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
5. Add the cumin and chili powder, stirring well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Continue cooking on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
8. Once the queso is creamy and hot, remove it from the heat.
9. Transfer the queso to a serving bowl.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick or substitute the milk with cream for a richer texture. You can also add jalapeños for extra heat.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this delicious queso with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or as a topping for nachos. It also pairs well with tacos or as a base for a cheesy burrito.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Queso can be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality cheese can result in a grainy texture.
- Cooking on high heat may cause the cheese to separate.
- Not stirring enough can lead to sticking at the bottom of the pan.
- Forgetting to season can make the queso bland.
- Overcooking can make the queso too thick.
Helpful Tips
- For a smoother queso, blend cheeses before melting.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors.
- Adjust spices according to personal preference.
- Add cooked sausage or ground beef for a heartier dip.
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning.
FAQs
What type of cheese is best for queso?
The best cheeses for queso are varieties that melt well, such as cheddar, Velveeta, or Monterey Jack. Combining different cheeses enhances flavor and texture.
Can I make queso ahead of time?
Yes, queso can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is queso gluten-free?
Yes, queso is typically gluten-free, but always double-check ingredient labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives are included.
Can I add meat to my queso?
Absolutely! Adding cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage can create a deliciously hearty version of queso.
How do I make queso spicier?
To add spice, include jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or use spicy cheese like pepper jack in your recipe.
Conclusion
This queso recipe is a crowd-pleaser that elevates any gathering. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for dipping or adding to other dishes. Enjoy this delicious treat and watch it disappear quickly!
Queso
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until translucent.
- Add Velveeta and cheddar cheese to the saucepan.
- Pour in the milk and stir continuously until melted and smooth.
- Mix in diced tomatoes with green chilies.
- Add cumin and chili powder, stirring well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Transfer the queso to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
