Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsLa Food MarketaQueso Recipe

Queso Recipe

Inspired by La Food Marketa
Time25m
Serves6

warm, smooth, spicy, velvety cheese dip

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Ingredients

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Base cheese mixture

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Mise en place

    Shred cheddar and Monterey Jack, soften cream cheese, and measure half-and-half. Finely mince jalapeños and drain enough to manage heat; keep pickled jalapeño juice handy for adjusting flavor.

  2. 2

    Warm the base

    In a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, combine cream cheese and half-and-half. Stir until smooth and creamy, about 3–5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Melt the cheeses

    Gradually add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Maintain a gentle simmer and continue until cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is silky.

Seasoning and texture

  1. 4

    Flavor the dip

    Stir in minced jalapeños, pickled jalapeño juice, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin. Adjust heat with additional jalapeño juice or hot sauce to taste.

  2. 5

    Finish with tang

    Whisk in sour cream until fully incorporated, creating a velvety texture.

Serving

  1. 6

    Garnish and present

    Spoon the queso into a warm serving dish or fondue pot. Top with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with tortilla chips on the side.

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