What to Eat with Queso: A Guide to Mexican Cheese Dips

Queso is one of the most popular Mexican cheese dips. It is loved for its creamy, cheesy texture and delicious flavor. There are many different ways to enjoy it, which can be appreciated with various foods.

Here are what to eat with queso:

  • Dippers: Tortilla chips, Pita chips, Vegetables, Refried beans, etc.
  • Side dishes: Tacos, Rice, Burgers, etc.
  • And many more.

This blog post will explore some of the best food pairings for the dip. We will also provide a recipe you can make at home!

The Popular Mexican Cheese Dip

What is Queso?

Queso is a type of cheese dip that is popular in Mexican food. It is typically made with melted cheese, milk, and spices. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a dip for other foods.

The cheese dip is typically served warm. It can be found on the menu of your favorite Mexican restaurant.

queso dip
Queso dip with crackers. Credit: canva

How is Queso Different from Cheese?

It is a type of cheese with a different texture than other types of aged cheese. It is smoother and creamier than other cheeses and has a more robust flavor.

How is It Compared to Classic Cheese Dip?

Queso has a strong flavor and a smooth consistency. It does not have the same sharpness or tanginess as traditional cheese dip. However, it can still complement other foods.

What Type of Cheese is Queso?

The cheesy dip is usually made with one or more of the following types of favorite cheese: cheddar, Monterey Jack (also known as Colby-Jack cheese or Cojack cheese), Asadero cheese, or white American cheese. White cheese is used primarily in Central and South American recipes.

These cheeses are melted and combined with milk and spices to create a creamy, cheesy dip.

Types

There are many different types, each with its unique flavor. Some of the most popular varieties include:

  • Queso Blanco: A milder version, it is made with white cheese and has a milder flavor than other types. It is often used as an ingredient in other dishes such as enchiladas, burritos, tacos, nachos, etc.
  • Queso Chihuahua: A spicy version that is typically eaten with tortilla chips. It is made with a blend of cheddar and chihuahua cheese. It has an intense spiciness makes it perfect for eating with tortilla chips.
  • Queso Cotija: Another type that combines cotija cheese and cheddar cheese. It is similar to Blanco but has a slightly sweeter taste.
  • Queso Frescos: They are cheeses aged for less than one year. It is made of fresh cheese that is commonly used in recipes. It is a soft and creamy cheese that is very easy to spread. It has a milder flavor than other types.
  • Queso Guajillo: It is a spicy version of cheese that is common in Mexico. It is made with jalapeño peppers and cumin.
  • Queso Oaxaca: A milder version that is made with only cheddar cheese. This cheese is known for being smooth and creamy.
  • Queso Poblano: A milder version made with cheddar cheese. It is often used in Rellenos (stuffed) and Fundido (melted).
  • Queso Rojo: A spicy and traditional version that includes habaneros, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
  • Queso Salsa Verde: A green sauce made with tomatillos and cilantro. The sauce is mixed with shredded chicken, pork, beef, or other meat.
  • Queso de Mayo: It is made with cheddar cheese and has a more robust flavor than other types.

What Does It Taste Like?

Queso has a rich, creamy flavor with a hint of spice. The spices used vary, depending on the recipe, but common ingredients include chili powder, cumin, and garlic.

Is the Cheese Dip the Same as Nacho Cheese Sauce?

Nachos cheese sauce. Credit: canva

No, it is not the same as a nacho cheese sauce. Queso is a cheese dip famous in Mexican cuisine, while nacho cheese sauce is a Tex-Mex dish typically served with tortilla chips.

The ingredients are also different. Queso is made with melted cheese, milk, and spices, while nacho cheese sauce typically contains processed cheese, cream, and salsa.

What to Eat with Queso?

Now that we know what it is and how it differs from cheese let’s explore some of the best foods to enjoy with this delicious dip.

What Can You Add to Make It Taste Better?

Jalapenos. Credit: canva

There are many ways to customize it to your liking. It depends on how you want it to taste.

Chili powder or Jalapenos

If you want a spicier or hot cheese dip, add more chili powder or jalapeños. On the other hand, if you want a milder flavor, you can add less chili powder or omit it altogether.

Cumin

Cumin is another common spice used in recipes. This spice adds a smoky flavor to the dip. You can add more of this spice if you want a more robust cumin flavor.

Garlic

Garlic is a common ingredient in many recipes. It adds a savory flavor to the dip. If you want a more robust garlic flavor, add more garlic cloves or use garlic powder.

Green Chilies

Green chilies are often used in recipes to add a milder spice to the dip. If you want a spicier flavor, you can use jalapeños instead.

Milk or Sour Cream

For a creamier one, you can add additional milk or even sour cream. This will also help thin out the dip if it is too thick.

Extra Cheese

Finally, if you want a creamy cheese sauce with a cheesier flavor, you can add extra shredded cheese or a block of cream cheese. This will also make the dip thicker.

What Dippers to Eat with the Mexican Dip?

Bowls of queso, guacamole, and pita chips. Credit: canva

Many different types of food go well. Here are some of our favorites:

Tortilla Chips

Tortilla chips are a classic pairing. The crispy chips are the perfect vessel for scooping up the creamy bowl of cheese dip.

Pita Chips

Pita chips are another great option. They have a slightly different flavor than tortilla chips but are just as delicious.

Crackers

Crackers are also a good choice for dipping into the dip. If you want a lighter option of delicious comfort food, you can try using whole wheat crackers or rice crackers.

Pretzels

Pretzels are another great dipper. They have a salty flavor that pairs well with the cheesy dip.

Fruit

You can also enjoy fruit with it. Strawberries, apples, and pears are perfect because they pair well with the creamy, cheesy flavor.

Salsa

Chips, salsa, and queso. Credit: canva

Salsa is another popular accompaniment —the fresh, flavorful salsa pairs well with the rich, cheesy dip.

Refried Beans

Refried beans are a common ingredient in many recipes. The beans add creaminess and heartiness to the dip.

Vegetables

Tortilla dish (queso dip, tortilla chip, and vegetables). Credit: canva

It is also delicious with vegetables. Try dipping carrot sticks, celery sticks, or bell peppers into the cheesy dip.

The list goes on! Anything that you enjoy dipping in cheese sauce will work well with it.

What Side Dishes to Eat with It?

Street tacos with queso fresco cheese. Credit: canva

Many side dishes go well if you want to enjoy the cheesy dip as the main dish. Here are some of our favorites:

Rice

Rice is a typical side dish in Mexican cuisine. It pairs well with the rich, cheesy flavors. The best rice types are white rice, brown rice, or Mexican rice.

Beans

Beans are another typical side dish in Mexican cuisine. They are a good protein source and can be enjoyed with queso as a main dish or a dipper.

The best beans to go are black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans.

Tacos

Tacos are a classic Mexican dish that goes well with the dip. The crunchy tacos and the creamy, cheesy dip are irresistible.

Enchiladas

Enchiladas are another excellent option for pairing. The spicy enchiladas and the rich, creamy queso will satisfy your taste buds.

Burritos

Burrito cheese. Credit: canva

Burritos are another delicious option for enjoying queso. Burrito is a term that typically refers to a flour tortilla filled with various ingredients.

The best burritos are filled with beans, rice, vegetables, and/or meat. And the cheesy dip and the hearty burrito will fill you up.

Burgers

Burgers are also a great option for pairing with the dip. The rich, cheesy sauce is the perfect topping for these juicy burgers. You can add cheese to bacon fries, burgers, and chicken sandwiches.

The best burgers are made with ground beef, turkey, or chicken.

Grilled Meats

Grilled meats are also an excellent option for pairing —the savory, grilled flavors of the meat pair well with the rich, cheesy sauce.

Several types of grilled meat dishes are listed below:

  • Carne asada
  • Pork chops
  • Chicken breasts
  • Steak

Green Salad

A green salad is a great way to balance out the rich flavors. The fresh, crisp greens pair well with the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Mix lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and/or cucumbers in a salad bowl for the best salad pairing.

Fruit Salad

A fruit salad is also an excellent option for pairing—the sweetness of the fruit pairs well with the rich, cheesy flavors.

The best fruit salads are made with strawberries, apples, and/or pears.

Quesadillas

Quesadillas with cheesy dip. Credit: canva

Quesadillas are a type of Mexican sandwich that is made with a flour tortilla and various fillings.

Nachos

Nachos are made with corn tortillas, cheese, and toppings. The cheesy dip and the hearty nachos satisfy your taste buds.

Fries

The salty, crispy fries are the perfect vessel for scooping up the rich, cheesy dip. The best fries are made with russet potatoes, sweet potatoes, or Yukon gold potatoes.

What Can You Make with Extra or Leftover Queso?

If you have extra, there are many ways to use it. One option is to freeze it for later. The dip can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.

Another option is to repurpose it into another dish.

Chile con Queso

You can turn it into chile con queso by adding hot pepper flakes. This version of the dish is often served at parties and gatherings.

It has been considered one of the best ways to kick off a meal in American food culture.

Mexican Pizza

You can also turn the cheesy dip into Mexican pizza. To do this, add shredded cheddar cheese to the top of the pizza crust before baking.

Scrambled Eggs or Omelet with Queso

Denver omelet with queso fresco. Credit: canva

You can use it for your omelet or scrambled eggs. Add it to the pan when cooking the eggs for extra flavor.

Queso-stuffed Peppers

Mix it with cooked rice and veggies, then stuff it into the peppers.

Mac and Cheese with Queso

To make mac and cheese with it, add the dip to your favorite mac and cheese recipe.

Or, you can make a quick and easy mac and cheese by mixing cooked pasta with it and some milk.

Queso as a Sauce for Pasta

Just cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, add the dip to the pan and stir until it is melted.

You can then add your desired toppings and enjoy.

Baked Queso Casserole

Queso casserole (queso fundido with chorizo sausage). Credit: canva

You can bake a casserole dish using the cheesy dip. Combine all ingredients in a baking dish, cover the dish with foil, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes.

Once baked, top the casserole with shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and other toppings.

Queso on Pizza

You can put the cheesy dip on pizza!

Spread onto pizza dough, sprinkle on some shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake it in the oven.

How to Make the Mexican Cheese Dip?

Now that we know what to eat with the dip let’s explore how to make it at home with real cheese! This recipe is easy to follow and can be made in just a few minutes.

Easy Homemade Queso Dip Recipe

Ingredients:

  • One pound of pre-shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Asadero cheese, or Queso Blanco)
  • One cup of milk
  • One teaspoon of chili powder
  • One teaspoon of cumin
  • One teaspoon of garlic powder
  • Kosher salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the cheese over medium-high heat.
  2. Stir in the milk, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Continue to stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Serve with chips, bread, crackers, or vegetables.
  5. Enjoy!

Queso is a delicious and versatile cheese dip that can be enjoyed differently.

We hope this guide has inspired you to get creative! Bon appetite!

FAQs

What food goes well with it?

Many foods go well with queso. Our favorites include chips, bread, crackers, vegetables, and fruit.

Is it good for you?

Queso is made with milk and cheese, which are both nutritious foods. However, it also typically contains spices and other ingredients that can add calories and fat.

Enjoying moderation as part of a balanced diet is essential, as with all foods.

What do you eat queso Blanco with?

Blanco is a type of cheese that can be enjoyed differently. Some of our favorite ways to enjoy it include dipping it in chips or eating it on its own as a snack.

What do you eat queso Fresco cheese with?

They are cheeses that have been aged for less than one year. They tend to be milder and creamier than most types.

Some of our favorite ways to consume it include using it as a sandwich spread or topping pizza.

Is it healthier than guacamole?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on the ingredients used in each dip. Generally speaking, it is made with milk and cheese, while guacamole is made with avocado, which contains healthy fats.

Both can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. When enjoying either dip, it is essential to focus on moderation and portion control.

Related Topics

 Is it safe to eat queso when pregnant?

You should avoid eating fresco, Blanco, and other soft cheeses when pregnant unless these cheeses have been pasteurized.

What type of cheese is queso?

There are many great cheese varieties, but queso is a cheese usually made from processed cheese. It’s typically a mix of cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses, and it’s perfect for recipes that call for melted cheese.

The dip can also be spiced with chili peppers or other ingredients to give it a unique flavor. Whether you’re looking for something to serve as an appetizer or want some cheesy goodness in your meal, it is a perfect choice!

Are Stacy’s pita chips healthy?

They’re not the healthiest snack, but they’re better than many other options. Stacy’s pita chips are made with real pita bread, so they have more fiber and protein than most chips.

They’re also baked rather than fried, which is always good. However, they’re still high in sodium and calories, so you should eat them in moderation.

Is queso fresco good for weight loss?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount of weight you’ll lose by eating it will vary depending on your dietary and exercise habits.

However, it is a relatively low-calorie cheese, so it can be a part of a healthy weight-loss diet plan. Just be sure to watch your portion sizes and avoid overeating high-fat cheese like Blanco or panela.

Is chipotle clean eating?

A chipotle is a great option if you’re looking for clean eating. They use fresh, high-quality ingredients, and their menu is full of healthy options. Plus, they have a great vegetarian and vegan selection.

If you want to eat clean at Chipotle, I recommend choosing one of their salads or bowls without cheese or sour cream. You can also order any dish with grilled chicken or steak instead of the processed meats they offer.

Which Mexican cheese melts best?

There are a lot of great Mexican cheeses that melt well, but my favorite is queso Blanco. It has a nice creamy texture and mild flavor that goes well with most dishes.

Another cheese that melts well is queso fresco, which has a slightly tangy taste and crumbly texture. These cheeses would be an excellent choice for your next Mexican dish!


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