Are you craving a warm, gooey, and incredibly flavorful cheese dip that's perfect for sharing with friends and family? Look no further! This Casa Ole Cheese Queso recipe is your ticket to a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer, side dish, or even a comforting meal on its own. It's so good, you'll want to make a double batch! This recipe is a celebration of simple, homemade cooking, offering a healthier alternative to store-bought versions while still delivering that authentic, cheesy goodness you love. It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to experience a fiesta in every bowl!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for added heat)
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (16 ounce) jar mild or medium salsa
- 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream (for creamier consistency)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, tortilla chips
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base for your queso.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), salsa, cubed Velveeta cheese, and cubed cream cheese to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
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Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the cheeses are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This takes about 10-15 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to prevent burning.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the milk or heavy cream, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings according to your preference. Serve immediately with your favorite tortilla chips, or use it as a topping for nachos, baked potatoes, or even as a dip for vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Queso:
- Use quality cheese: The flavor of your queso heavily depends on the quality of the cheese. Don't skimp on this ingredient!
- Low and slow: Melting the cheese on low heat prevents burning and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Stir frequently: Constant stirring prevents the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even melting.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder queso, omit the jalapeño or use a milder salsa. For extra heat, add more jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Queso: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Queso: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for variations in flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Casa Ole Cheese Queso recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and delicious dishes. It's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy!