Chili Con Queso Appetizer
A creamy, cheesy dip with spicy jalapenos, tomatoes, and peppers, perfect for entertaining or snacking with tortilla chips. Bold flavors appeal to all cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, chopped green pepper, chopped and peeled tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Add paprika, flour, Velveeta cheese, hot water, and jalapeno peppers.
- Cook slowly for 10 minutes, stirring until cheese melts and mixture is heated through.
- Serve in a fondue pot or warm serving dish.
- Great over tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when melting the cheese. If you want to substitute Velveeta, use a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a similar taste. Adjust the level of jalapenos based on your heat preference. This dish can also be enhanced with spices like cumin for extra flavor, making it a delightful addition to your Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chili Con Queso warm, ideally in a fondue pot to keep it melted and gooey. It pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, making it a perfect appetizer. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside guacamole or Pico de Gallo. This dish is also a fantastic complement to tacos or a side for your favorite Mexican entrees.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the dip thickens, add a little water or milk to reach the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Queso Appetizer contains roughly 374 calories, with 19g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (315% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (152% of the Daily Value), and iron (137% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 467mg per serving (20% 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 dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and cook the dip in advance. Just refrigerate it after cooking and reheat before serving. This makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute with a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. This will provide a rich flavor while still melting well, creating a delicious dip.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level can vary based on the amount of jalapenos you add. For a milder dip, use fewer jalapenos or remove the seeds. Alternatively, you can add more for an extra kick, tailoring the recipe to your taste.
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).