This cheesy and creamy white spinach queso is perfect for sharing (or not!). With fresh spinach and a blend of warm cheeses, it’s a dip that makes your taste buds happy.
You won’t believe how quickly it disappears at parties! I love serving it with crunchy tortilla chips—just be careful, it’s hard to stop once you start. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for sautéing! You can easily swap it out for butter or a different oil like coconut or avocado oil based on your taste or dietary needs.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds a nutritious touch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach works in a pinch—just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture!
Cheeses: Monterey Jack and white American create that melty goodness. If you want an alternative, try pepper jack for a little spice or a combo of mozzarella and cream cheese for a similar texture.
Half-and-Half: This makes the dip creamy. Substitute with heavy cream for a richer flavor, or use milk for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk can work but be cautious of the taste.
Mayonnaise: It adds creaminess! Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative, though it may change the flavor slightly. You could also skip it if you prefer a simpler version.
How Do I Get My Queso Creamy Without Clumping?
The key to a smooth queso is slow melting the cheeses. Start with medium-low heat to gently warm the cheese without burning. Here are some tips:
- Always stir continuously when adding cheese to help it incorporate smoothly.
- Add cheeses gradually; this lets them melt evenly and prevents clumping.
- Keep the dish over low heat after adding milk to ensure everything stays melted and creamy.
If you do run into lumps, try using a whisk to break them up and remix the queso. Enjoy your cheesy creation!
Chili’s White Spinach Queso
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 ounces white American cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
- Tortilla chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy white spinach queso takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and delicious choice for game nights, parties, or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. This will give your queso a wonderful garlic flavor!
2. Add the Spinach:
Next, toss in the chopped fresh spinach. Stir it around for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down nicely and looks vibrant. This will add color and nutrients to your dip!
3. Melt the Cheeses:
Now it’s time to lower the heat to medium-low. Gradually add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and cubed white American cheese to the pan. Stir continuously to help them melt smoothly for a rich, creamy texture.
4. Mix in Creamy Ingredients:
Once the cheese is melted, stir in the half-and-half (or milk) and mayonnaise. Keep stirring until everything is blended well and the mixture is creamy.
5. Season the Queso:
Next, add the ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning if you want more spice or flavor.
6. Cook Until Creamy:
Keep cooking the queso gently until all the cheese is fully melted and the dip is warm and creamy. Be careful not to boil it, as that can cause the cheese to separate.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer your delicious queso to a serving bowl. If you’d like, garnish with diced tomatoes and chopped fresh cilantro for extra color and flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your warm white spinach queso immediately with lots of crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You’re in for a treat with this delightful, creamy dip that’s packed with flavor! 😋
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a watery queso. About 1/2 to 3/4 cup of frozen spinach will work well in this recipe.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want a milder dip, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Just taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the queso in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm and creamy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore its creamy texture and stir frequently to avoid clumping.
