Chili Con Quesa
Creamy and spicy chili con queso featuring melted cheese, tomatoes, and jalapenos, perfect for sharing as a dip or a comforting snack for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the grated or finely chopped onion in margarine until translucent.
- Puree the drained tomatoes and jalapeno peppers, then add to the pan.
- Mix chili sauce and cornstarch, then add to the mixture when it begins to bubble.
- Reduce heat to medium and stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese until melted and smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeno peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer, you can substitute regular cheese for Velveeta, but it may alter the creaminess. Consider using fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste. This dish is great for entertaining, as it can be served as a dip alongside tortilla chips or M Y F Cheese Nachos.
Serving Suggestions
Chili Con Quesa is perfect as a dip for parties, served with tortilla chips or alongside a spread of Mexican recipes like Mexican Dip Salad. For a complete meal, pair it with tacos or a fresh salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or jalapenos for added color and flavor. This dish can also be enjoyed with some warm Taco Shells.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring often until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring to prevent sticking, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Quesa contains roughly 237 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 709mg per serving (31% 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 Chili Con Quesa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving. Keep in mind that the cheese may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of milk or water while reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a more natural cheese option, you can use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. Melt the cream cheese first and then gradually add the shredded cheese until smooth. This will give you a creamy texture similar to Velveeta.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Chili Con Quesa is vegetarian-friendly, as it primarily consists of vegetables and cheese. Just be sure to check the chili sauce for any non-vegetarian ingredients. This dish can also be made vegan by using plant-based cheese alternatives and ensuring all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
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).