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creamy queso blanco dish

Queso Blanco Skillet

This queso blanco skillet is a foolproof recipe that delivers a creamy, melty dip right in your kitchen. With a perfect blend of white American and pepper Jack cheeses, along with a subtle kick from jalapeño and spices, it’s the ideal party showstopper or casual snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Party Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion minced
  • 1 jalapeño minced (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 1 cup evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed milk)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 8 ounces white American cheese shredded
  • 4 ounces pepper Jack cheese shredded
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch ground cumin
  • Fine salt to taste

Equipment

  • Medium skillet
  • Measuring cup
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 small minced onion and 1 minced jalapeño (with seeds removed for milder heat) to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
  3. In a measuring cup, whisk together 1 cup of evaporated milk and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
  4. Pour the milk mixture into the skillet with the softened aromatics and simmer gently for 1-2 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. Be careful not to let it boil.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add 8 ounces of shredded white American cheese and 4 ounces of shredded pepper Jack cheese in small handfuls, stirring and allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more.
  6. Once all the cheese has melted, season with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of ground cumin, and fine salt to taste.
  7. When the queso reaches a silky, pourable consistency, remove from heat and transfer to a warmed serving dish or a small slow cooker to keep it warm.

Notes

This versatile queso blanco skillet can be jazzed up with add-ins like roasted green chiles, crumbled chorizo, or even a street-corn variation. It’s gluten-free provided you check your ingredients, and serving it in a slow cooker keeps it perfectly warm for parties. The key is in the gentle heat and gradual cheese melting, ensuring a smooth, stretchy texture.