Slow Cooker Queso

We’re going to help you kick your snacking game up a notch with our homemade Slow Cooker Queso recipe! We’ve taken your favorite Mexican dip and made it even better with a rich, creamy texture and just the right amount of spice to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or a movie night, or just craving a cheesy indulgence, this queso is sure to hit the spot.

In this super easy recipe, we take velvety-smooth cheese that’s been perfectly melted and infuse it with flavorful spices, diced tomatoes, and green chilies. And thanks to the magic of the slow cooker it couldn’t be easier. Simply toss all the ingredients in, let them mingle and meld together on low heat, and voila — your queso is ready to serve!

So grab your favorite dippables—whether it’s tortilla chips, crunchy veggies, or even drizzle it over burrito bowls or nachos—and get ready to enjoy a cheesy masterpiece that’s guaranteed to be the star of any gathering.

What’s the Difference Between Queso and Melted Cheese? 

Although similar, queso and melted cheese aren’t exactly the same. The easiest way to tell the difference is by looking at their appearance! Queso is smooth, creamy, and usually lighter in color whereas melted cheese varies in color depending on the type of cheese and has a much thicker consistency. The two also taste very different from each other with queso being much more flavorful thanks to the addition of spices and peppers. 

What Kind of Cheese Is Queso Made From?  

Typically, queso is made from white American cheddar and mozzarella. As a result, it has a fairly mild flavor that takes on the taste of the extra ingredients added.

Homemade Queso Ingredients

Our homemade queso recipe has just a handful of simple ingredients and even fewer steps. Here’s the lowdown on everything you’ll need: 

• Rotel Tomatoes – Make sure you drain the can first. You don’t want your queso to be runny! 
• Salsa Verde – This spicy tomatillo sauce will add tons of flavor and a little spice to your dip.
• Cheese – For the best flavor and absolute creamiest texture, we used a combination of full-fat cream cheese, Cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. 
• Jalapeños – In our opinion, the best queso recipes pack just a bit of heat. Just be sure to remove all of the seeds from your peppers before adding them to the dip! 
• Cilantro – Light and refreshing, this classic herb adds a bit of brightness to the bold flavor of this homemade queso. 
• Milk – Just a dash of milk is used to help thin out your queso, making it perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips!

How to Make Slow Cooker Queso 

This homemade queso recipe is so crazy easy to make you’ll never wait for the restaurant version again! 

1. Pour all of the ingredients into the slow cooker. 
2. Cover, and cook on high for 30 minutes. 
3. Stir, and cook for an additional 15 minutes. Then, stir in a few splashes of milk until your desired consistency is reached. 
4. Serve, and enjoy! 

Flavor Add-Ins

This homemade queso is already packed full of flavor, but more is always better, right? To take it to the next level, try adding in a few tasty additions such as: 

• Sautéed Vegetables – Boost the nutrient content with sautéed veggies such as onion and peppers! 
• Meat – Turn this homemade queso into homemade queso con carne by mixing in some taco meat. Then, us this sip a filling for the cheesiest tacos you’ll ever taste! 
• Beans – Adding some black or kidney beans to your dip will transform the texture of the queso while also providing a bit of protein and extra fiber to keep you full. 

How to Serve this Homemade Queso Recipe

Honestly, this queso dip is so good you could eat it with a spoon! No judgment if you do. However, it also makes for an easy appetizer or a tasty addition to a filling dinner. Some of our favorite ways to serve it include: 

• On baked nachos for the big game
• To top off homemade Chicken Fajitas
• Paired with Double Decker Mexican Pizza for a delicious dip 

More Ways to Use Queso 

Looking for more queso-filled recipes? We’ve got you covered with cheesy family-friendly recipes that can’t be beat! 

• The ultimate comfort food, Queso Pasta is the perfect mash-up of soft noodles and creamy queso for an irresistible dish! 
• Kid-approved and better than any boxed versions you’ll find Queso Mac and Cheese is the best mac and cheese you’ll ever make.
• If you don’t have a slow cooker, don’t fret; this Baked Queso dish is also easily made in the oven but tastes like it was cooking all day!