Quarterback Queso Dip Jalapenos (Print Version)
Creamy, spicy cheese dip featuring sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and fresh jalapeños. Ideal for game day or any social gathering.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dairy
01 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
02 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
→ Fresh Vegetables
05 - 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
06 - 1 small onion, finely diced
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pantry Staples
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Garnish
14 - 1 jalapeño, sliced into rings
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
# How-To Steps:
01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños; cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
02 - Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
03 - Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring a smooth consistency without lumps. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to visibly thicken, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until it is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
05 - Incrementally add the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until all the cheese is fully melted and the dip achieves a creamy, uniform texture.
06 - Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning as necessary to your preference.
07 - Transfer the prepared queso to a serving bowl. Garnish with jalapeño rings and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve warm alongside tortilla chips or an assortment of fresh vegetables.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It's incredibly simple to whip up, yet tastes like you put in so much effort, making you look like a kitchen wizard.
- You can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone's palate, from a gentle warmth to a fiery kick.
02 -
- Patience is key when melting the cheese; keeping the heat low prevents a grainy, broken sauce.
- Using freshly ground spices, especially cumin and paprika, truly elevates the warmth and depth of flavor in this dip.
03 -
- Always grate your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make your dip grainy.
- The cream cheese isn't just for flavor; it's the secret weapon for that unbelievably smooth, restaurant-quality texture.