Cheese Con Queso
A creamy, cheesy dip with Velveeta, fresh vegetables, and herbs, perfect for parties, snacking, or casual gatherings, offering bold flavors and a smooth, hot texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir the Velveeta with milk, flour, chopped tomato, bell pepper, jalapenos, cilantro, and garlic salt in a saucepan.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're looking for a bit of heat, try adding more jalapenos or a splash of hot sauce. You can also swap the Velveeta for a blend of shredded cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for a more authentic taste. Fresh cilantro adds great flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheese con queso with tortilla chips for dipping, or use it as a topping for nachos. It pairs beautifully with Tex-Mex Layered Dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer spread. Consider serving alongside fresh vegetables or grilled meats for a well-rounded meal. It can also be drizzled over burritos or tacos for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese con queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warm and smooth. You may need to add a splash of milk to help regain its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving directly as it can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Con Queso contains roughly 298 calories, with 9g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (168% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 517mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese con queso ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cheese con queso ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe and allow it to cool before storing in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove over low heat until melted and warm. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
This recipe is already vegetarian since it primarily uses cheese and vegetables. However, if you're looking to make it vegan, you can use plant-based cheese alternatives and nut milk instead of dairy milk. Just ensure all ingredients fit your dietary preferences.
What can I serve with cheese con queso?
Cheese con queso pairs well with a variety of snacks and sides. Tortilla chips are a classic choice, but you can also serve it with fresh vegetable sticks, pretzels, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. For a festive touch, consider pairing it with Fiesta Grilled Avocados for a delicious flavor combination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).