White Queso Dip & Chips from Applebee's features a creamy, melted white cheese blend infused with mild green chilies and spices, served alongside golden, crispy tortilla chips for the perfect savory and crunchy snack.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowl
- Baking sheet (for warming chips, optional)
- Ladle (for pouring queso)
- Chip basket or plate
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) white American cheese
- 4 oz (115g) Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup half-and-half
- 1 (4 oz) can mild diced green chilies
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Tortilla chips
White American cheese and Monterey Jack cheese are essential for achieving the creamy texture and mild flavor in this dip, so ensure you use fresh, high-quality cheeses. Whole milk and half-and-half balance the creaminess without making the dip too thick or runny. Mild diced green chilies add a subtle heat and tang; adjust the amount to suit your taste preference. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper create a well-rounded, mildly spicy flavor profile, so measure them carefully to avoid overpowering the cheese. Your White Queso Dip & Chips from Applebee's copycat menu will capture the perfect savory and crunchy snack experience when these ingredients are combined correctly.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Grate or cube the white American cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine whole milk and half-and-half.
- Slowly add the cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the diced green chilies.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Continue whisking until fully blended and creamy.
- Taste and adjust salt or seasonings if needed.
- Keep warm on low heat, stirring occasionally.
- (Optional) Warm tortilla chips on a baking sheet in the oven.
- Pour queso dip into a serving bowl using a ladle.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips on a basket or plate.
Substitution
White Queso Dip & Chips from Applebee's copycat menu delivers a rich and creamy blend of white American and Monterey Jack cheeses combined with mild diced green chilies for balanced heat and flavor. If you don't have white American cheese, substituting with processed cheese or a mild white cheddar can maintain creaminess while slightly altering the taste. Use whole milk and half-and-half for the ideal smooth texture, but you can replace these with evaporated milk in a pinch to keep the dip rich without adding extra wateriness. Mild diced green chilies can be swapped with roasted poblano peppers or canned jalapenos for a different heat profile, adjusting the cayenne pepper accordingly to suit your spice preference. Warming tortilla chips briefly on a baking sheet enhances their crispness and ensures a satisfying crunch with every dip.
Tips
When melting the cheese, maintain medium-low heat to prevent the mixture from scorching or becoming grainy. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy texture without lumps. Your choice of milk and half-and-half balances richness and consistency, so avoid substituting with low-fat alternatives. Warming the tortilla chips just before serving enhances their crunch, complementing the creamy queso dip perfectly.
Nutritions
White Queso Dip & Chips from Applebee's offers a rich source of calcium due to the combination of white American and Monterey Jack cheeses, providing essential nutrients for bone health. The whole milk and half-and-half contribute to the creamy texture while adding calories and healthy fats to support energy needs. Mild diced green chilies enhance the dip with antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin C, promoting immune function. Your snack experience balances savory flavors with protein and dietary fats, making it a satisfying treat when enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
Store leftover White Queso Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each. Keep your tortilla chips in a sealed bag or container at room temperature to preserve their crispiness for several days.
Variation or Alternatives
To vary the White Queso Dip's flavor, substitute the mild diced green chilies with roasted jalapenos for a smoky heat. Use evaporated milk instead of whole milk and half-and-half to create a richer texture. For a dairy-free option, replace the American and Monterey Jack cheeses with vegan cheese blends designed for melting. You might also add a splash of fresh lime juice or chopped cilantro before serving to brighten the flavor and complement your chips.
Allergies
White Queso Dip & Chips from Applebee's contains dairy ingredients such as white American cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, whole milk, and half-and-half, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The dip also contains mild diced green chilies and spices, which might cause sensitivities in some people prone to spice allergies. Your best option is to consult ingredient lists carefully if you have any food allergies before enjoying this snack.
Why this recipe?
White Queso Dip & Chips from Applebee's restaurant appeals due to its creamy texture and bold blend of melted cheeses with mild spices, creating a comforting and flavorful appetizer. The freshly made tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch, perfectly complementing the rich, cheesy dip. Your attempt to make a copycat version allows for customization of spice levels and ingredient quality, making it potentially fresher and tailored to personal taste preferences. Replicating this popular menu item offers a cost-effective and fun way to enjoy the beloved flavor at home.