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Skillet Queso

Skillet Queso

Skillet Queso is a creamy, cheesy dip bursting with rich flavors, perfect for game nights and gatherings. Made with a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese, mixed with jalapeños, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and warm spices, it’s an irresistible crowd-pleaser served warm right from the skillet.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheeses

  • Cream cheese – 8 oz (softened)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 ½ cups
  • Shredded Monterey Jack cheese – 1 cup

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

Liquids & Seasonings

  • Milk or half-and-half – ½ to ¾ cup
  • Ground cumin – ½ teaspoon
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black pepper – to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather and measure out all ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process. Dice onions, mince garlic, and chop jalapeños while shredding your cheeses for smooth melting.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for the queso.
  3. Add Peppers and Tomatoes: Stir in the diced jalapeños and the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for another 2 minutes to develop the spice and release juices.
  4. Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low, add cream cheese first, stirring until melted and smooth. Slowly incorporate the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly so the mixture stays creamy and doesn’t clump.
  5. Thin and Season: Pour in milk or half-and-half a little at a time until the dip reaches your preferred consistency. Season with ground cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Keep stirring gently for a perfectly smooth queso.
  6. Serve Warm: Serve your Skillet Queso straight from the pan to keep it warm and melty, ready for dipping!

Notes

  • Use a heavy skillet such as cast iron for even heat distribution and to keep queso warm.
  • Melt cheeses over low heat to prevent graininess and separation.
  • Add milk or half-and-half gradually to control dip consistency.
  • Remove seeds from jalapeños to reduce heat if desired; keep seeds for full spice.
  • Stir constantly while melting to avoid scorching and create a smooth texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso dip, skillet queso, cheesy dip, game night dip, creamy cheese dip, appetizer, Mexican dip