Tex-Mex Queso Dip

Instructions

1. 1

   Brown the Beef and Onion

   • In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat.
   • Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Continue until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, and the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Tilt the pan and carefully spoon out and discard any excess grease.
2. 2

   Bloom Spices and Add Tomatoes

   • Return the pan to medium heat. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
   • Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This step, called blooming, deepens their flavor.
   • Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes and green chiles (including the liquid). Stir well to combine with the beef mixture.
3. 3

   Melt the Cheese

   • Reduce the heat to low. This is crucial to prevent the cheese from separating or scorching.
   • Add the cubed processed cheese and the milk to the pan.
   • Stir gently but frequently until the cheese is completely melted and the dip is smooth and creamy. This will take about 5-8 minutes. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
4. 4

   Garnish and Serve

   • Once the queso is perfectly smooth, remove it from the heat.
   • Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.
   • Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or crackers.