Description
This creamy Mexican White Cheese Dip is a delicious blend of white American and Monterey Jack cheeses combined with savory spices and a hint of jalapeño heat. Perfect for parties or game day, it’s served warm with tortilla chips for a comforting and flavorful appetizer that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Dairy and Thickening
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 8 oz white American cheese, shredded or cubed
- 4 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped white onion and seeded, diced jalapeño. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and salt, mixing well to combine with the softened onion and jalapeño.
- Prepare Milk Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Thicken the Base: Pour the milk and cornstarch mixture into the saucepan with the aromatics. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the shredded or cubed white American cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the dip becomes smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: If the dip is too thick, add a small splash of milk to loosen it to your desired consistency, stirring well after each addition.
- Add Cilantro and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro if using for a fresh herbal note. Serve the dip warm with tortilla chips as an appetizer or party dip.
Notes
- For a spicier dip, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- White American cheese melts best when sourced fresh from the deli counter instead of pre-packaged shredded varieties.
- To keep the dip warm during gatherings, place it in a slow cooker set to low.
