Simple Loaded Queso Dip

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This rich and creamy queso dip is packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of heat. With gooey melted pepper jack cheese, creamy goodness from cream cheese, and a kick from Rotel, it’s the ultimate easy appetizer for game day, parties, or whenever you need a quick and delicious dip.

Simple queso dip in a baking dish, creamy and melted, with a spatula ready to serve it.

And it's so so easy to throw together last minute!

Ingredients

Pepper Jack Cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly spicy kick to the dip.
Cream Cheese: Helps make the dip extra smooth and rich.
Rotel: A mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies that bring a little heat and tang.
Cilantro: Adds a pop of freshness at the end.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Simple Loaded Queso Dip

Cream cheese being sliced into small chunks with a knife nearby.

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the cream cheese into small pieces.

Ingredients being mixed together in a baking dish.

Place the pepper jack cheese and Rotel in a baking dish, then spread the cream cheese pieces on top.

Finished simple queso dip in a baking dish, creamy and melted, ready to be served.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Take it out of the oven, mix everything together, and bake for another 10 minutes.

Top with cilantro and serve hot with tortilla chips.

Hint: for an extra creamy texture, stir in a few tablespoons of milk or heavy cream right before serving. It keeps the queso from thickening too much as it cools!

Substitutions & Variations

Switch up the cheese: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.
Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Add protein: Stir in cooked chorizo, crumbled bacon, or seasoned ground beef.
Make it smoky: Use smoked gouda or add a dash of smoked paprika.

💭Crucial Success Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture—pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the dip grainy.

FAQ

Can I make this queso dip in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

What can I serve with this queso dip?

Tortilla chips, pretzels, veggie sticks, or even drizzled over nachos or tacos.

How can I keep the queso dip warm for a party?

Serve it in a small slow cooker on the warm setting or place the baking dish over a heated serving tray.

📖 Recipe

8 servings

Simple Loaded Queso Dip

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

This Simple Queso Dip is full of flavor and quick to make! With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a cheesy, creamy dip perfect for any party. It’s an easy and tasty way to impress your guests — serve it hot with crispy tortilla chips and watch it disappear!

Ingredients

8 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded
8 oz cream cheese, diced
10 oz can Rotel
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro to top

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cut the cream cheese into small pieces.
Place the pepper jack cheese and Rotel in a baking dish, then spread the cream cheese pieces on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Take it out of the oven, mix everything together, and bake for another 10 minutes.
Top with cilantro and serve hot with tortilla chips.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 205Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 54mgSodium: 259mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 9g

How to Store Simple Loaded Queso Dip

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm the dip in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between, or heat it in a small saucepan over low heat.
Do not freeze—the texture may become grainy after thawing.