Appetizer

White Queso Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: White Queso Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: ¾ pound white American cheese; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 4 ounces freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon chili powder or cumin; 12 ounces evaporated milk; 2 tablespoons chopped canned jalapeños or chopped green chiles; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ ground nutmeg; Chopped fresh cilantro, tomatoes, and jalapeños for garnish

Willie Regan August 4, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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As a passionate food enthusiast, I often find myself thinking about that one dish that can elevate any gathering: the perfect white queso. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough to kick things up a notch.

Whether you’re hosting a game-day fiesta, a casual barbecue, or a movie night, this dip is a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with some crispy tortilla chips, and you’ve got a snack that everyone will fight over—and believe me, I’ve seen it happen!

This article will guide you through my favorite white queso recipe. I’ll share personal anecdotes, insightful tips, and all the tasty details you’ll need to make this dip truly special. Let’s dive right in!

What is White Queso?

White queso is a creamy cheese dip that has its roots in Tex-Mex cuisine. Unlike traditional yellow queso, which typically incorporates cheddar, this version often features white American cheese or a blend of cheeses for a smoother, milder flavor.

You will often find it spiced up with ingredients like jalapeños or green chiles, making it a savory complement to nachos, tacos, and even drizzled over tacos or burritos.

The Ingredients

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s move on to what you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat. Here’s a list of the ingredients:

¾ pound white American cheese
1 tablespoon cornstarch
4 ounces freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder or cumin
12 ounces evaporated milk (1 can)
2 tablespoons chopped canned jalapeños or chopped green chiles
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Chopped fresh cilantro, tomatoes, and jalapeños for garnish

Each of these ingredients plays an essential role in creating that rich and creamy texture. The blend of cheeses gives a lovely flavor complexity, while the jalapeños add just the right amount of heat.

How to Make White Queso Recipe

Ready to embark on this cheesy adventure? Don’t worry; I’ll guide you step by step. Trust me, it’s easier than you might think!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all of your ingredients. This makes the cooking process seamless and fun. You don’t want to find yourself scrambling through the pantry when the cheese starts melting!

Step 2: Shred the Cheese

If you’re using block cheese, take the time to shred it yourself. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother texture. Pro tip: a box grater or food processor works wonders here!

Step 3: Mix the Cornstarch

In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with your shredded mozzarella. This step prevents the cheese from clumping as it melts. You’re aiming for smooth, creamy goodness, not a gloppy mess.

Step 4: Heat the Milk

Pour the evaporated milk into a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. You want to warm it, not boil it. This is an important step for the next part—just trust me!

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Once the milk is warm, stir in the white American cheese and the mozzarella, along with the cornstarch mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and creamy. Feel free to channel your inner cheese master as you whisk!

Step 6: Spice It Up

When your cheese is velvety and luscious, it’s time to add the red pepper flakes, black pepper, chili powder or cumin, jalapeños, and salt. These spices and flavors will transform your queso from basic to brilliant. Keep stirring until everything is evenly mixed and melted.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Take a moment now to taste your creation. If you want more spice, add more jalapeños or red pepper flakes. For a bit of warmth, a dash of ground nutmeg is a delightful addition, but this is totally optional.

Step 8: Serve It Up

Now that your queso is ready, pour it into a warmed serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped tomatoes, and jalapeños for that Instagram-worthy finish. Grab those tortilla chips, and dive in!

Notes

With careful preparation, your white queso will be a hit. Here are a few tips to ensure perfection:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, fresh cheese and spices yield better flavors.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re making this for kids, tone down the jalapeños but keep the flavor vibrant.
Don’t Rush It: Low heat and patience are key. Rushing through can lead to a clumpy texture.
Make It Ahead: This dip can be made a few hours in advance. Just reheat gently when ready to serve.
Experiment: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add more ingredients like ground beef or beans for added richness.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve enjoyed your white queso, you might be wondering how to store the leftovers (if there are any!). Here are some simple storage methods:

Refrigerate: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat Correctly: Warm it up slowly on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Freeze with Caution: While you can freeze this dip, keep in mind that the texture may change. If you do freeze it, reheat it directly from frozen, but expect that it may need some extra stirring to get the creaminess back.

Nutrition Information

Considering that cheese is the star here, the nutritional values are quite indulgent. In a single serving of this white queso (about ¼ cup), you can expect something like the following:

Calories: Approximately 260
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 12g

Enjoy this dip in moderation, especially if you’re watching your nutritional intake!

Serving Suggestions

You might be mulling over how to serve this luscious dip. Here are some of my best ideas to make your gathering memorable:

1. Serve with Tortilla Chips
Classic and always a winner, tortilla chips provide the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy queso. Use homemade or store-bought.

2. Nachos Supreme
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet and smother them in your white queso. Toss on some jalapeños and olives, then bake until golden. Garnish with sour cream and guacamole for the ultimate nacho experience.

3. Drizzle Over Tacos
Take your taco night up a notch. Pour white queso over soft or hard-shell tacos—trust me, it will bring flavor magic to every bite.

4. Quesadilla Dip
Instead of a classic quesadilla, dip your tortillas in queso before grilling. It adds a layer of irresistible smoothness that’s hard to resist.

5. Veggie Dipping Platter
Level up your veggie platter! Serve raw vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers alongside your queso. It makes for a delightful and colorful presentation.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in White Queso Recipe?

Sometimes you might not have all the ingredients at hand. Here are some alternatives you can consider:

1. Gouda or Monterey Jack Cheese
If you’re missing white American cheese, gouda or Monterey Jack can provide a similarly creamy texture with a slightly different flavor.

2. Cream Cheese
This can replace some of the white American cheese for added creaminess. Just be sure to melt it well!

3. Plant-Based Cheese
For a vegan version, look for high-quality plant-based cheese shreds. They can offer a delightful flavor without dairy.

4. Almond Milk or Coconut Milk
If you need a dairy-free option for the evaporated milk, these kinds of milk can work. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be altered slightly.

5. Habanero Peppers
For those who like it spicier, switch out the jalapeños for diced habaneros. Use caution; they bring more heat!

Conclusion

There you have it! My delightful journey into the world of white queso. It is a dip that pairs seamlessly with a variety of snacks, elevating your gatherings and transforming your meals into something extraordinary. Now that you’re equipped with this recipe and tips, feel free to let your creativity shine. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish can be the star. So gather those ingredients and start crafting your masterpiece. Your taste buds (and your friends) will thank you! Happy dipping!

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Print Recipe

White Queso Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 15 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 260

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Whether you’re hosting a game-day fiesta, a casual barbecue, or a movie night, this dip is a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with some crispy tortilla chips, and you've got a snack that everyone will fight over—and believe me, I’ve seen it happen!