Chili Con Queso(Nacho Cheese Dip)
Creamy, spicy, and cheesy with green chilies, tomatoes, and onions, this chili con queso dip is perfect for parties, snacks, or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the saucepan.
- Cook until the onions are tender, but not browned.
- Add chopped green chilies and stewed tomatoes to the saucepan.
- Lower heat and add Monterey Jack cheese and Longhorn cheese.
- Cook until the cheeses are melted and smooth.
- Stir in sour cream.
- Cook until heated through, but do not let it boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding a splash of milk or cream along with the sour cream. If you want to spice it up, feel free to add more jalapeños or even a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. This dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or as a topping for Mexican recipes like Mexican Baked Potato Skins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or as a topping for nachos. It also works great as a filling for burritos or quesadillas. Pair this dip with a refreshing salsa or guacamole for a complete snack experience. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside Mexican Cornbread(Delicious!) for a hearty appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dip in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth. If it thickens too much, add a little milk to achieve your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Queso(Nacho Cheese Dip) contains roughly 470 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 732mg per serving (32% 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 this dip in advance. Simply follow the recipe but stop before adding the sour cream. Let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and stir in the sour cream just before serving for the best texture.
Is this dip spicy?
The spice level of the dip can vary based on the number of jalapeños you use. For a milder dip, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping them. If you prefer extra heat, leave some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
What can I substitute for the cheeses?
If you're looking for alternatives, you can use a combination of cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Other melting cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack can also be great substitutes, adding a unique twist to the dip.
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).