Best Queso Recipe (Cafe Rio Copycat)

The best queso recipe in a cast iron skillet. The dip is being dunked into with a tortilla chip.

5 from 6 votes

Best Queso Recipe (Cafe Rio Copycat)

Creamy and easy queso dip - flavored with tomato, jalapeño, onion, garlic, and green chilies. This Cafe Rio copycat is the perfect dipper for your next fiesta. Pair it with veggies, chips, and tortillas for the ultimate party platter. Made in minutes, this queso will be your new go to appetizer.

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time3 mins

Total Time13 mins

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Mexican

Servings: servings

Calories: 132kcal

Author: Kadee & Desarae

Ingredients

½ yellow onion
1 roma tomato
1 lime juiced
1 jalapeno seeds removed
½ bunch cilantro
10 ounces canned tomatoes with green chilis
1 clove garlic
salt to taste
8 ounces american cheese like velveeta
4 ounces cream cheese
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon cumin

Instructions

Combine onion, roma tomato, jalapeno, cilantro, canned tomatoes with green chilis, and garlic in a blender.
Pulse until blended, but small chunks still remain. Add salt to taste.
Dice American and cream cheese into 1 inch cubes. Place in a medium sized bowl
Microwave cheeses for 2 minutes 30 seconds - stirring every 30 seconds - until smooth.
Add ¾ cup of blender mixture to melted cheese. Add chili powder and cumin. Stir until smooth.
Return to microwave and cook 30 seconds to marry flavors.
Serve immediately.

Notes

BEST QUESO FAQ

What is queso served with?

Queso is most commonly served with tortilla chips, but is is also great with veggies and as a topping on burritos, tacos, and salads.

Are fondue and queso the same thing?

Essentially, yes. However, most queso recipes have spices and salsas added to them while fondue is a bit thicker and usually just cheese.

Is queso the same things as nacho cheese?

Queso has tex-me roots and usually includes spices and salsa. Nacho cheese is generally just melted processed cheese.

How long does this recipe last?

You can store this recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds.

Can I cook this recipe in the oven rather than the microwave?

Yes! Add all ingredients to a large baking dish, and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. Stir. Return to oven for an additional 10 minutes. Stir again and serve.

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