5-Ingredient Queso (so easy!)
User Reviews
4.9
5-Ingredient Queso (so easy!)
Description
The 5-Ingredient Queso combines evaporated milk and cornstarch to create a creamy base that thickens as it simmers gently without boiling. Onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt season the sauce, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the cheese. Freshly shredded pepper jack cheese is stirred in gradually over low heat to ensure smooth melting and a consistent texture. The cheese lends a mildly spicy and creamy flavor profile.
Served warm, the queso can be enjoyed as a dip with tortilla chips or used creatively as a topping. It allows optional additions such as diced chiles or tomatoes to customize flavor and appearance. The recipe emphasizes careful temperature control to prevent curdling or graininess.
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container refrigerated for 3 to 4 days and reheated gently to maintain texture. Garlic powder quantity can be adjusted to preference for flavor intensity.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- 1 Tablespoon corn starch reduce to 3/4 TBSP for a thinner sauce
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼-½ teaspoon garlic powder see note
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt more or less to taste
- 8 ounces pepper jack cheese freshly shredded
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together evaporated milk, corn starch, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt until combined. Start with half the salt amount if you'd like, adding the rest to taste.
- Bring just to a light simmer (don’t boil!) for 1-2 minutes while frequently stirring.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese in batches, allowing each addition to melt completely. Keep stirring to ensure the cheese melts smoothly and the dip remains a consistent temperature. Taste test, adding additional salt as needed. If adding diced chiles or tomatoes, you can stir them in now, or transfer the dip to a serving dish and garnish as desired. Enjoy with tortilla chips.
Notes
- Adjust garlic powder to 1/4 teaspoon for a milder cheese flavor, or use 1/2 teaspoon to maintain the original taste.
- Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days and reheat gently by microwave or stovetop while stirring frequently.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 168 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 168kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Fat | 12g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 38mg | 13% |
| Sodium | 361mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 155mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 320IU | 6% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 323mg | 32% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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