Chi Chi's Chile Con Queso

Dive into the creamy, spicy flavors of Chi Chi's Chile Con Queso, a Tex-Mex classic that’s perfect for any gathering or casual snack. This recipe combines silky white American cheese with the bold heat of jalapeño peppers and green chilies, balanced by the savory depth of cumin, paprika, and freshly sautéed onions. The addition of juicy, diced tomatoes and an optional sprinkle of fresh cilantro takes this dip to the next level of freshness and flavor. Simple to prepare in just 25 minutes, this queso is best served warm with crunchy tortilla chips for the ultimate party appetizer or game-day snack. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging on your own, this rich, cheesy dip will transport your taste buds to Tex-Mex heaven with every bite!

Nutriscore Rating: 49/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 16 ounces white American cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 ounces jalapeño peppers (canned, diced)
• 4 ounces green chilies (canned, diced)
• 0.5 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 large tomatoes (diced)
• 0.5 teaspoons cumin
• 0.5 teaspoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
• 1 bag tortilla chips (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Grate the white American cheese or cut it into small cubes for easier melting.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the milk to the saucepan.

Step 6

Gradually add the cheese, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly and doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 7

Once the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy, stir in the diced jalapeño peppers, green chilies, diced tomatoes, cumin, and paprika.

Step 8

Allow the cheese mixture to simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, to let the flavors blend together.

Step 9

Taste the queso and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice if desired.

Step 10

Remove from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro, if using, for a burst of fresh flavor.

Step 11

Transfer the hot queso to a serving bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips on the side.

Step 12

Keep the queso warm for serving using a small slow cooker or a warming dish if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1363.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3072.1

Total Fat 225.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 104.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.9g
Cholesterol 573.8mg	0%
Sodium 9899.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 188.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.2g	0%
Total Sugars 40.4g
Protein 108.2g	0%

Vitamin D 116.4IU	0%
Calcium 3398.7mg	0%
Iron 8.1mg	0%
Potassium 1957.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 63.1%

Protein: 13.5%

Carbs: 23.4%