Cinco de Mayo Loaded Queso (Printable)

A creamy cheese dip topped with chorizo, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and cilantro, ideal for festive gatherings.

# What You 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, optional for extra heat

→ Toppings

11 - 6 ounces fresh Mexican chorizo, casing removed
12 - 1/2 cup pico de gallo
13 - 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños, fresh or pickled
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, optional
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, about 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
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, about 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 using.
07 - Serve warm with tortilla chips.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal hands-on time
  • Features a silky, smooth cheese sauce made from scratch without processed cheese
  • Fully customizable with your favorite toppings and spice levels
  • Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings
  • Can be kept warm in a slow cooker for extended entertaining
  • Gluten-free when paired with appropriate tortilla chips
02 -
  • Use freshly shredded cheese from a block for the smoothest, creamiest texture
  • Keep the heat low when melting cheese to prevent separation or graininess
  • Prepare toppings in advance so you can assemble quickly while the queso is hot
  • If making ahead, reheat gently over low heat, adding milk as needed to restore consistency
  • A cast iron skillet retains heat beautifully and makes for impressive presentation
  • Check chorizo and chip labels for allergens if serving guests with dietary restrictions
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