Monterey Jack Queso

5 from 1 vote

This authentic restaurant-style Monterey Jack Queso is the ultimate party appetizer! It’s made with milky Monterey Jack cheese, flavorful green chiles, and the perfect amount of spice. The final result is unbelievably smooth, creamy, and decadent. All you need is 8 simple ingredients, 20 minutes, and a big appetite!

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings servings

Calories 78

Author Jessica Kwon

Ingredients

½ lb Monterey Jack cheese shredded (see notes)
1 teaspoon corn starch
½ tablespoon unsalted butter
1 shallot finely diced; about 2 tbsp
2-3 cloves garlic minced
½ teaspoon cumin
1 (4 oz) can fire roasted diced green chiles
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk divided
Cilantro and green onion optional garnishes
Salt and pepper

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Combine shredded cheese and corn starch in a bowl. Toss until starch is evenly distributed, then set aside.
Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Then add shallot with a small pinch of salt. Let cook for 1 minute until lightly translucent. Add garlic and cumin, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in 1 cup of evaporated milk, green chiles, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper. Let heat up for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until lightly steaming.
Turn heat down to low. Add a handful of cheese and stir constantly until melted. Repeat until all the cheese has been added, making sure to only add a handful at a time while constantly stirring. Be patient!
Whisk until silky, smooth, and dip consistency is reached, about 3-5 minutes. Add more evaporated milk as needed to reach your desired consistency. Keep it on the runnier side since it will thicken slightly as it cools. Season to taste and serve immediately.

Video

Notes

Monterey Jack cheese: Always use block cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-grated cheese contains anti-clumping preservatives that prevents it from melting properly. For reference, ½ lb = 8 oz.
Slow cooker: Just add all of the ingredients to a slow cooker, then cook on Low for 2-3 hours. Stir to combine and serve.
Portion out a small serving for parties: As queso cools, it can seize and start to lose its flowy consistency. If serving Monterey Jack Queso at a party, I recommend serving a small bowl for guests. Keep the remainder warm on the stovetop at low heat or in the slow cooker, and refill the bowl as needed.

Nutrition