Name: Queso Blanco Chipotle (Copycat) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil; ½ yellow onion; 1 pc green bell pepper; 1 pc jalapeno pepper; 15 oz tomatoes and chilis; ½ cup tomatillo salsa; 3 garlic; 2 tbsp flour; 2 tsp chipotle chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 cups whole milk; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp lemon juice

This queso blanco chipotle recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic cheese dip, combining spicy jalapeños, smoky chipotle chili powder, and tangy tomatillo salsa. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, it offers a rich and creamy texture that pairs well with chips, veggies, and more.

Photos of Queso Blanco Chipotle (Copycat) Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your kitchen. Look for tomatillo salsa, chipotle chili powder, and red wine vinegar in the international or condiment aisles of your supermarket. Additionally, fresh jalapeños and tomatillos can often be found in the produce section.

Ingredients for Queso Blanco Chipotle Recipe

Vegetable oil: This oil is used to sauté the vegetables, providing a neutral flavor that doesn't overpower the dish.

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the queso.

Green bell pepper: Contributes a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a bit of crunch.

Jalapeño pepper: Provides heat and a fresh, peppery taste.

Tomatoes and chilis: Adds a tangy and spicy component to the queso.

Tomatillo salsa: Brings a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the cheese.

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its pungent, savory notes.

Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the cheese dip.

Chipotle chili powder: Adds a smoky, spicy depth to the queso.

Ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor.

Dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbal, slightly bitter notes.

Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Whole milk: Creates a creamy base for the queso.

Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds richness.

Red wine vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the richness of the cheese.

Cheddar cheese: The main ingredient for a rich, creamy, and cheesy dip.

Lime juice: Adds a fresh, tangy brightness right before serving.

Lemon juice: Enhances the flavors with its zesty, citrusy notes.

One reader, Efrem Woody says:

This queso blanco chipotle copycat recipe is fantastic! The flavors are rich and perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of heat. It's creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. My family couldn't get enough of it. This will definitely be a regular at our gatherings!

Efrem Woody

Key Techniques for Making Queso Blanco Chipotle Copycat Recipe

Yes.

How to dice onions: Explanation on how to properly dice an onion into small, even pieces. How to chop bell peppers: Explanation on how to remove the seeds and chop the bell pepper into small pieces. How to mince garlic: Explanation on how to finely chop garlic cloves. How to whisk: Explanation on how to properly whisk ingredients to ensure they are well combined. How to melt cheese: Explanation on how to melt cheese smoothly without it becoming grainy or clumping.

Every time I have guests or family members over, I make sure that I’m prepared with my appetizers. I usually like to make baked tortilla chips or, sometimes, just plain crackers and chips. Either way, I always serve these delightful appetizers with a tasty dipping sauce. I have a list of dips that I prepare for my appetizers, and one of them is this delicious Chipotle queso recipe. This smooth and creamy dip is also known as Chipotle queso blanco which means white cheese in English.

I love making this queso blanco Chipotle dip because it’s not just creamy and cheesy, but it also has the right amount of zest and heat. In a way, it’s a bit similar to a chili con queso dip with just a slight difference in color. This dip is more pale white in color instead of yellow, hence the name queso blanco. That’s why I like this dip because cheesy dips get boring after a while so I prefer the added chili and spiciness that this dip has to offer.

I included bell peppers and jalapeno peppers into the mix. You can also try adding in poblano pepper, serrano peppers, green chiles, or even Chipotle pepper for a more authentic spicy Mexican flavored dip. Once I had spices ready, the next essential ingredients are the dairy. Adding in more cheeses can improve the flavor and texture of the dip since it can also act as a thickener. I used white cheddar cheese for this recipe, but adding in other kinds of white cheese works as well. I tried mixing together white cheddar cheese and white American cheese with Monterey Jack cheese before, and it was an interesting flavorful combination. It also really bulked up the dip! I also noted that switching up your whole milk for heavy cream or evaporated milk can create an even thicker cheese sauce dip.

I’ve done this before and both work in creating a much creamier dip for my tortilla chips. You won’t have to worry about a runny Chipotle queso blanco dip ever again with these helpful alternatives. These are just some of the cheese variations that I used for this dip, but you can also experiment with Mexican cheeses for a more authentic queso blanco dip. Try oaxaca cheese and queso fresco (fresh cheese). Be advised, though, that queso fresco doesn’t melt well since it’s a crumbly cheese so I simply used it as a garnish.

Speaking of garnishes, the lemon and lime juice that I added as a final touch for this cheese dip really brought in the delicious mix of tang and spice. The tang really completed the whole dip. Although, next time, I’m going to try adding some browned ground beef into the dip to try and make it even more appetizing with the added meatiness.

How To Make Queso Blanco Chipotle (Copycat)

Dip your tortilla chips in this bowl of creamy, flavorful, and spicy Chipotle queso blanco made with white cheese, fresh peppers, and tomatoes.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
½ yellow onion,chopped
1 pc green bell pepper
1 pc jalapeno pepper
15 oz tomatoes and chilis, canned
½ cup tomatillo salsa
3 garlic, cloves, minced
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tsp Chipotle chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper, coarse ground
2 cups whole milk, or heavy cream
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 cups white cheddar cheese, or Monterey Jack cheese, (grated)
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

In a large dutch oven, add the vegetable oil on medium-high heat along with the onion, bell peppers, and jalapeños and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
Add in the canned tomatoes, chilis, tomatillo salsa, garlic, cornstarch, Chipotle powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour the milk and whisk well. Then add in the tomato paste, vinegar, and cheese and whisk until the grated cheese is melted.
Right before serving, whisk in the lime and lemon juice and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 268.69kcal
Fat: 17.30g
Saturated Fat: 7.86g
Trans Fat: 0.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.49g
Carbohydrates: 17.78g
Fiber: 4.11g
Sugar: 8.72g
Protein: 12.85g
Cholesterol: 39.76mg
Sodium: 618.69mg
Calcium: 337.29mg
Potassium: 586.76mg
Iron: 1.47mg
Vitamin A: 183.03µg
Vitamin C: 50.83mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Queso Blanco Chipotle Copycat Recipe

When cooking the onion, bell peppers, and jalapeños in the vegetable oil, ensure they are softened but not browned. This will help maintain a smooth texture in your queso blanco. Stirring occasionally and keeping an eye on the heat will prevent them from caramelizing too much.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Queso Blanco Dip

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, bell peppers, and jalapeños in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Measure spices beforehand: Measure out the chipotle chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper before you start cooking.

Use a food processor: Mince the garlic and chop the tomatoes and chilis quickly with a food processor.

Simmer while prepping: Start cooking the vegetables while you measure and prepare the other ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Queso Blanco Chipotle (Copycat) Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar cooking medium with a slightly richer flavor.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar texture and slightly milder flavor.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers are sweeter but provide a similar texture and color contrast.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but offer a similar flavor profile.
tomatoes and chilis - Substitute with diced tomatoes and green chilies: This combination provides a similar texture and flavor.
tomatillo salsa - Substitute with green enchilada sauce: Green enchilada sauce has a similar tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though fresh garlic is more aromatic.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the mixture similarly to flour but is gluten-free.
chipotle chili powder - Substitute with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper: This combination mimics the smoky and spicy flavor of chipotle chili powder.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a different but complementary flavor that can work well in the recipe.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme offers a different but still herbaceous flavor that can complement the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but is less visually noticeable.
whole milk - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half provides a richer, creamier texture.
tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can provide a similar tomato flavor with added sweetness.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and fruitiness.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and brightness.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar offers a similar acidity and tang.

Presentation Tips for Serving Queso Blanco Dip

Use a cast iron skillet: Serve the queso blanco chipotle in a small, preheated cast iron skillet to keep it warm and give it a rustic, yet elegant presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro and green onions on top to add a pop of color and freshness.
Accompany with artisanal chips: Pair the dish with handmade tortilla chips arranged neatly around the skillet for a sophisticated touch.
Add a side of fresh salsa: Serve a small ramekin of pico de gallo on the side to complement the flavors and add a burst of freshness.
Drizzle with crema: Lightly drizzle Mexican crema over the top for a creamy contrast and visual appeal.
Use a wooden board: Present the skillet and accompaniments on a polished wooden board to enhance the rustic yet refined aesthetic.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a few edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies for a touch of elegance and color.
Serve with lime wedges: Include a few lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the dish, enhancing the citrus notes.
Provide a variety of dippers: Offer an assortment of dippers such as sliced radishes, jicama sticks, and mini bell peppers for added texture and flavor options.
Finish with a dusting of spices: Lightly dust the top with a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle chili powder for an extra layer of flavor and visual interest.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Queso Blanco Chipotle Copycat Recipe

Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot with thick walls and a tight-fitting lid, ideal for cooking the ingredients evenly and maintaining heat.
Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables to soften them and enhance their flavors.
Knife: Essential for chopping the onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping vegetables.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the spices, flour, and other small quantity ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk and other liquid ingredients precisely.
Whisk: Helps in mixing the milk, tomato paste, vinegar, and cheese smoothly to achieve a creamy consistency.
Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the ingredients while they cook to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Can opener: Needed to open the canned tomatoes and chilis.
Garlic press: Makes it easier to mince the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Lemon squeezer: Helps extract juice from the lime and lemon without seeds.
Serving bowl: Used to serve the finished queso blanco chipotle.
Ladle: Handy for transferring the queso from the pot to the serving bowl.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Queso Blanco Dip

To store the queso blanco chipotle in the refrigerator, let it cool to room temperature first, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
When ready to reheat, warm the queso in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to thin it out if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the queso for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
To thaw frozen queso, place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 8 hours. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little milk if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
If you plan to freeze the queso, it's best to slightly undercook it initially, as it will thicken further upon reheating. This will help maintain its smooth and creamy texture after thawing and reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Queso Blanco Dip

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover queso blanco chipotle to a saucepan and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the dip seems too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out. Heat until warmed through, being careful not to let it boil or simmer, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
Microwave method: place the leftover queso in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. If needed, add a small amount of milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency. Continue heating until the dip is warmed through, being cautious not to overheat, which can lead to a grainy texture.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover queso blanco to a slow cooker and heat on low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method is ideal for larger quantities of leftover dip and helps maintain a smooth, creamy texture. If the dip becomes too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream to reach the desired consistency.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover queso blanco chipotle to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through, stirring halfway through the reheating process. If needed, add a small amount of milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the queso well to ensure even heating and a smooth texture. Avoid reheating the dip more than once, as this can affect the quality and texture of the cheese. If you have a large amount of leftover dip, consider reheating smaller portions as needed to maintain the best flavor and consistency.

Interesting Trivia About Queso Blanco Chipotle Copycat Recipe

A unique aspect of this queso blanco chipotle recipe is the use of tomatillo salsa, which adds a tangy and slightly acidic flavor that complements the creamy cheddar cheese. This ingredient is not commonly found in traditional queso blanco recipes, making this version stand out with its distinctive taste.

Is Making Queso Blanco Dip at Home Cost-Effective?

This queso blanco chipotle recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like vegetable oil, onion, bell peppers, jalapeños, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and whole milk are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The spices and additional items such as tomatillo salsa, chipotle chili powder, and red wine vinegar add a burst of flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is This Queso Blanco Dip Healthy or Unhealthy?

This queso blanco chipotle recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of whole milk and a generous amount of cheddar cheese contributes to a high saturated fat content.
The inclusion of vegetable oil, which is often high in omega-6 fatty acids, can contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess.
The sodium content may be elevated due to the addition of kosher salt, canned tomatoes, and chilis, which often contain added salt.

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, and tomatoes, which provide vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Swap whole milk for a lower-fat alternative, such as 2% milk or a plant-based milk like unsweetened almond milk.
Reduce the amount of cheddar cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese variety, such as part-skim mozzarella or a reduced-fat cheddar.
Replace vegetable oil with a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, which are rich in monounsaturated fats and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Use low-sodium versions of canned tomatoes and chilis to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding more bell peppers, jalapeños, or even incorporating spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
Serve the queso with fresh, raw vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, or sliced bell peppers instead of tortilla chips to increase the fiber content and reduce the overall calorie intake.

Editor's Opinion on This Queso Blanco Chipotle Copycat Recipe

This queso blanco chipotle recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the smokiness of chipotle chili powder with the tanginess of tomatillo salsa and the richness of cheddar cheese. The addition of red wine vinegar and citrus juices adds a refreshing acidity that balances the creamy texture. However, consider using a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a smoother melt. Also, sautéing the garlic with the onions and peppers could enhance its aromatic profile. Overall, it's a vibrant and flavorful dip perfect for any gathering.

Enhance Your Queso Blanco Chipotle (Copycat) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Street Corn: Grilled Street Corn: Imagine the smoky aroma of corn mingling with the creamy, spicy notes of your queso blanco chipotle. This side-dish brings a burst of flavor with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and a dash of chili powder.

Avocado Mango Salad: Avocado Mango Salad: A refreshing salad that combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweet, juicy tang of mango. Tossed with a light citrus vinaigrette, it’s the perfect contrast to the rich, spicy queso.

Chorizo-Stuffed Mushrooms: Chorizo-Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized appetizers pack a punch with savory chorizo and earthy mushrooms. The robust flavors complement the creamy queso, making each bite a delightful experience.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with the zesty freshness of lime and aromatic cilantro. This side-dish adds a light, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the queso blanco chipotle.

Pineapple Salsa: Pineapple Salsa: A vibrant salsa that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the heat of jalapeños. The fruity, spicy mix is a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy dip, adding a tropical twist to your appetizer spread.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Queso Blanco Dip

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Dip: This creamy and cheesy dip is loaded with jalapeños, bacon, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for game day or any gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch.

Southwestern Corn and Black Bean Salsa: A vibrant mix of corn, black beans, tomatoes, and avocado. Tossed with a zesty lime dressing, this salsa is perfect with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats.

Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas: These quesadillas are stuffed with shredded chicken, chipotle peppers, and melty cheese. Serve with a side of guacamole and sour cream for a delicious meal or appetizer.

Tomatillo Avocado Salsa: A refreshing and tangy salsa made with tomatillos, avocado, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño. Perfect for dipping or as a topping for tacos and grilled fish.

Chili Con Queso: A rich and creamy cheese dip with a kick of spices and green chiles. Serve warm with tortilla chips for a classic Tex-Mex appetizer.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Queso Blanco Dip

Main Courses:

Grilled Chicken Fajitas: Grilled Chicken Fajitas are a delightful fusion of smoky grilled chicken and vibrant vegetables. Marinate the chicken in a blend of lime juice, garlic, and spices to infuse it with flavor. Grill the chicken until it’s perfectly charred and juicy. Serve with sautéed bell peppers and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Top with fresh salsa, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a burst of freshness. This dish is perfect for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, offering a delicious and interactive dining experience.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a hearty and colorful main course that combines ground meat with rice and vegetables. Hollow out the bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of seasoned meat, cooked rice, tomato sauce, and spices. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the Ultimate Chocolate Experience: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, cake shell. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a rich, decadent treat. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury. The contrast between the warm, gooey center and the cold, creamy topping will leave your guests in awe.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight in a Tangy and Sweet Classic: This dessert combines a buttery, flaky crust with a tart lemon filling and a light, fluffy meringue topping. The balance of sweet and sour flavors makes it a refreshing end to any meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few fresh berries to add a burst of color and flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a bright finish to a hearty dinner.

Why trust this Queso Blanco Chipotle (Copycat) Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, tomatillo salsa, and chipotle chili powder to create a delicious and authentic queso blanco. The use of fresh ingredients like onion, bell peppers, and jalapeños ensures a vibrant taste, while the addition of lime juice and lemon juice adds a zesty finish. Trust this recipe for its balance of spices and creamy texture, perfect for any gathering.

Share your thoughts on the Queso Blanco Chipotle (Copycat) Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried and how it compares to the original!

FAQ:

How spicy is this queso blanco chipotle recipe?

The spice level is moderate, thanks to the jalapeño and chipotle chili powder. If you prefer it milder, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or chipotle chili powder.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is great for its meltability and flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses.

How do I store leftovers?

Just pop any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge. It should keep well for about 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it gets too thick.

Can I make this queso blanco chipotle recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving and add a bit of milk if it has thickened up too much. Stir in the lime and lemon juice right before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

What can I serve with this queso blanco chipotle?

This queso is perfect with tortilla chips, but you can also drizzle it over nachos, tacos, or even use it as a dip for veggies. It's pretty versatile!