Torchy's Queso Recipe

Torchy’s Queso is a creamy, flavorful Tex-Mex dip that combines the rich taste of melted cheese with the perfect balance of spices and a hint of heat. Ideal for dipping tortilla chips, pouring over tacos, or adding to nachos, this queso is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With a simple recipe that can be made in under 20 minutes, you can recreate this iconic dish from Torchy’s Tacos right in your own kitchen. Customize it with optional ingredients to suit your taste, and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy cheese and zesty flavors.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
2 ounces cream cheese
1 cup milk or more for desired consistency
1-2 tablespoons green chilies canned, drained
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients and Add-ins:
1 cup ground beef or chorizo cooked
1-2 jalapeños sliced, for added heat
Hot sauce to taste, if you want more spice
Cilantro for garnish
Tortilla chips for serving

Equipment

Medium-sized saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Knife and chopping board (for chopping optional ingredients like jalapeños)
Can opener (for green chilies)
Measuring cups and spoons

Method

Prepare the Ingredients: Shred the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Drain the green chilies. If using, cook the ground beef or chorizo.
Melt the Cheese: Heat the cream cheese in a saucepan over medium heat until it softens. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until melted. Slowly add the milk, a little at a time, and stir until smooth.
Add the Chilies and Spices: Stir in the green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, and paprika. Mix well and heat until everything is combined and hot.
Adjust the Consistency: If the queso is too thick, add more milk to thin it out. For extra creaminess, add a bit of sour cream or extra cream cheese.
Serve: Pour the queso into a bowl, garnish with cilantro, and serve with tortilla chips or your favorite Tex-Mex dishes.

Notes

Customizing the Heat: Adjust the spiciness of the queso by adding more jalapeños, hot sauce, or using spicy green chilies.
Make It a Meal: Add cooked ground beef, chorizo, or even sautéed vegetables for a heartier queso dip.
Storage: Leftover queso can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding milk as needed to bring back its creamy texture.
Freezing Queso: While freezing queso is possible, the texture may change upon reheating. For best results, store in the fridge and consume within a few days.