Cinco de Mayo Loaded Queso (Print Version)

Creamy cheese blend with spicy chorizo and fresh pico, served warm with crispy tortilla chips.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheese Sauce

01 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
03 - 1.5 cups whole milk
04 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
05 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
06 - 0.25 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 0.25 teaspoon chili powder
08 - 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 0.25 teaspoon salt
10 - 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper

→ Toppings

11 - 6 ounces fresh Mexican chorizo, casing removed
12 - 0.5 cup pico de gallo
13 - 0.25 cup sliced jalapeños
14 - 0.25 cup sour cream
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
16 - 0.25 cup sliced green onions
17 - 0.25 cup diced ripe avocado
18 - 1 bag tortilla chips for serving

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the cornstarch until smooth and bubbling, about 1 minute.
03 - Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper.
05 - Pour the hot queso into a serving dish or cast iron skillet.
06 - Top immediately with cooked chorizo, pico de gallo, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, green onions, and avocado if using.
07 - Serve warm with tortilla chips.

# Helpful Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Perfect for parties, game days, or any celebration
  • Features a creamy, silky cheese sauce made from scratch
  • Loaded with savory chorizo and fresh, colorful toppings
  • Easily customizable for different spice levels and dietary needs
  • Gluten-free when served with appropriate chips
02 -
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, creamiest texture
  • Keep the heat low when melting cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy or separating
  • Cook chorizo until crispy for the best flavor and texture contrast
  • Prep all toppings before starting the cheese sauce so you can assemble while it's hot
  • For parties, keep queso warm in a slow cooker on the lowest setting
  • Add a splash of milk if the queso thickens too much while sitting
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