How do you make cheese dip from scratch?

Start with shredded cheese, cream, and spices like garlic or chili powder. Melt slowly on low heat for smooth results.

Can you make cheese dip with block cheese?

Yes—shred it first to help it melt evenly. Avoid pre-shredded cheese when possible, since it contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.

What’s the best cheese for cheese dip?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack offer creamy melt, while Velveeta and White American give restaurant-style smoothness.

How do you keep cheese dip warm for a party?

Use a crock pot on the warm setting or a small fondue pot. This keeps the cheese dip recipe creamy without burning.

Is there a healthy cheese dip recipe?

Yes. Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or light cream cheese. Disclaimer: I’m not a nutritionist—just sharing what’s worked well in my kitchen.

How do you make an authentic Mexican queso dip?

Melt white American cheese with jalapenos, Rotel, garlic, and cumin for a true restaurant-style queso dip.

Can cheese dip be made vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip meat and load up on beans, corn, spinach, or artichokes.

What’s the difference between queso and cheese dip?

Queso usually refers to Mexican-inspired versions with chilies and spices, while cheese dip is a broader term covering any creamy, melted cheese-based dip.

Cheese Dip Recipe – Easy, Creamy & Family-Friendly

Name: Cheese Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack; 8 oz cream cheese block; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup evaporated milk; ½ cup Greek yogurt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup onion, diced; 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies; 1–2 jalapenos, diced; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; ½ tsp smoked paprika; 1 cup spinach, chopped; ½ cup refried or black beans; 1 cup artichokes, chopped; ½ cup corn; ½ pound ground beef or turkey (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Description

Creamy cheese dip recipe made with cheddar, cream cheese, and spices. Perfect for chips, pretzels, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
8 oz cream cheese block
½ cup sour cream
1 cup evaporated milk
½ cup Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup onion, diced
1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies
1–2 jalapenos, diced
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 cup spinach, chopped
½ cup refried or black beans
1 cup artichokes, chopped
½ cup corn
½ pound ground beef or turkey (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prep and Shred Cheeses: Use 2 cups of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack. Cube Velveeta if using.
Start with a Creamy Base: In a saucepan or crock pot, add cream cheese and evaporated milk. Stir until warm.
Melt Ingredients: Add shredded cheese or Velveeta. Melt slowly on stovetop or crock pot on low.
Add Flavor Enhancers: Stir in Rotel, jalapenos, garlic, onion, and spices.
Stir in Mix-Ins: Add ground beef, spinach, artichokes, beans, or corn for variety.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.

Notes

For a lighter dip, swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3–4 days; reheat gently.
Nutrition values are estimated.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 220
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: cheese dip recipe