Cinco de Mayo Loaded Queso (Printable)

Creamy cheese dip with chorizo, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and cilantro served warm with crunchy chips.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cheese Sauce

01 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
03 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
04 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
05 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

→ Toppings

11 - 6 ounces fresh Mexican chorizo, casing removed
12 - 1/2 cup pico de gallo
13 - 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
14 - 1/4 cup sour cream
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
16 - 1/4 cup sliced green onions
17 - 1/4 cup diced ripe avocado
18 - 1 bag tortilla chips for serving

# Directions:

01 - In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the cornstarch until smooth and bubbling, about 1 minute.
03 - Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper.
05 - Pour the hot queso into a serving dish or cast iron skillet.
06 - Top immediately with cooked chorizo, pico de gallo, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, green onions, and avocado if desired.
07 - Serve warm with tortilla chips.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal hands-on time
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd at parties and celebrations
  • Completely customizable heat level and toppings
  • Rich, creamy cheese sauce that stays smooth and silky
  • Combines the best flavors of Mexican cuisine in one irresistible dip
  • Easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for any occasion
02 -
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, creamiest texture—pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent proper melting
  • Keep the queso warm throughout your party by transferring it to a slow cooker on the lowest setting
  • Make the cheese sauce ahead and reheat gently, adding a splash of milk to restore consistency
  • Drain the chorizo well on paper towels to prevent the queso from becoming greasy
  • Add toppings just before serving so they stay fresh and vibrant
  • For the best flavor, toast your own corn tortillas and cut them into chips
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