You have chips. They look lonely. Let’s fix that—fast. This queso is warm, silky, and a total show-stopper. One dip and the bowl will vanish. Blink and it’s gone. So, let’s get cooking before the crowd shows up!
The best Mexican queso recipe is a smooth, creamy dip made with melty cheese (Oaxaca or white American), evaporated milk, and a little cornstarch, cooked low with onion, jalapeño, garlic, and cumin until it’s silky and scoopable.
Why this queso wins (and never splits)
Super smooth: evaporated milk + cornstarch = no clumps.
Big flavor: onion, jalapeño, garlic, cumin.
Fast: ready in about 10 minutes.
Flexible: mild or spicy, your call.
Ingredients you need
1 tbsp butter
1/2 small white onion, minced
1 jalapeño, minced (seed for mild)
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 cup evaporated milk (or half-and-half)
2 tsp cornstarch
8 oz shredded melty cheese (Oaxaca or Asadero; white American works great; Monterey Jack is fine too)
Toss the shredded cheese with the cornstarch. Set aside.
Melt butter in a saucepan on low. Cook onion and jalapeño until soft, 2–3 minutes. Add garlic for 30 seconds.
Pour in evaporated milk. Keep heat low; do not boil.
Add cheese a handful at a time, stirring until smooth before adding more.
Stir in cumin and salt. Fold in tomato. Top with cilantro. Squeeze a little lime if you like.
Serve warm with chips, tacos, or veggies.
Pro tips for super smooth queso
Low heat is key. Boiling makes it grainy.
Shred your own cheese for a silkier melt.
Too thick? Stir in warm milk, 1 tbsp at a time.
Too thin? Add a little more cheese, or 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp milk.
Flavor boosts (pick one or mix a few)
Chorizo: cook, drain, and spoon on top.
Roasted poblano: smoky and mild.
Chipotle: deep heat and a touch of smoke.
Corn + black bean: hearty and colorful.
Green chile: bright, gentle warmth.
Cheese swap guide
Oaxaca: stretchy and mild.
Asadero: smooth and creamy.
Chihuahua (Menonita): mellow and nutty.
White American: ultra-smooth melt; common in many restaurants.
Monterey Jack: easy to find and melts well.
Make-ahead, reheat, serve
Make-ahead: cool, then cover and chill up to 3 days.
Reheat: warm on low with a splash of milk, stir until smooth.
Keep warm: use a small slow cooker on “warm.”
Quick FAQ
Is queso the same as queso fundido? Queso dip is a smooth, creamy sauce. Queso fundido is melted cheese in a skillet, often with chorizo. Both are delicious cousins.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but it may be less smooth because of anti-caking powder. Freshly shredded melts better.
Party add-ons (easy wins)
Squeeze of lime and extra cilantro on top.
Warm chips in the oven for 3–5 minutes.
Serve with salsa, pickled jalapeños, and quick guac.
The 60-second recap
Low heat. Evaporated milk. Cornstarch.
Melty cheese, added slowly.
Onion, jalapeño, garlic, cumin for flavor.
Tweak thickness with milk or a tiny cornstarch slurry.
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