Air Fryer Queso is amazing and so easy to make. Today, I made this for my kids as a late snack, which they loved. They kept on eating until the plate was empty!

This is one of the most popular Tex-Mex Dips, made with layers of flavor and then all cooked to perfection in the air fryer!

Air Fryer Queso
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The Velveeta Cheese creates a smooth cheese dip; I missed a great and authentic flavor in jalapenos.

Are you looking for more appetizer recipes for the Air Fryer? Some of my favorites are BLACKSTONE LOADED GRILLED NACHOS, AIR FRYER DESSERT NACHOS, AIR FRYER BREADED EGGPLANT, and AIR FRYER LASAGNA EGG ROLLS.

Learn How To Make Air Fryer Easy Queso

What is Queso?

Queso is so good. Made with cheese with so many flavors, you can add whatever you want, but today, I added some authentic Tex-Mex add-ins.

Queso comes from the Spanish word, which means cheese. So, in theory, it’s just melted cheese.

Almost every Mexican American restaurant sells its version, but they all start with a base of creamy cheese, usually Velvetta. The add-ins can range from Jalapeno peppers to more cheese to diced tomatoes.

The cheese color will depend on what type of cheese you are using and your add-in. The add-ins might change the color of the cheese.

Can You Make Queso In Air Fryer?

Can You Make Queso In Air Fryer?

You can make queso (cheese dip) in an air fryer. The trick is to use a baking or disposable pan, so all the ingredients melt up amazing!

This might be the best queso recipe for your air fryer!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Queso

Air Fryer Queso is a creamy and flavorful cheese dip perfect for dipping tortilla chips or serving at parties. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

Air Fryer Queso

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Ground Chorizo: Uncooked ground chorizo adds flavor and texture to the dish.
  • Velveeta Cheese: Velveeta is known for its smooth and creamy texture, making it an ideal choice for queso. It melts easily and blends well with other ingredients.
  • Mexican Cheese: This cheese blend adds the cheesiness of the queso to the dish.
  • Canned Rotel Tomatoes and Green Chilies: Rotel tomatoes add a flavor and a hint of spiciness to the queso. You can choose the level of heat by selecting mild or hot varieties.
  • Milk: Milk helps to thin out the cheese and create a silky-smooth consistency in the queso.
  • Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory flavor to the dip.
  • Onion Powder: Onion powder contributes a subtle onion flavor to the queso without the texture of fresh onion
  • Optional Toppings: You can customize your queso with optional toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, diced jalapeños, or crumbled cooked bacon for added texture and flavor.

How To Make Queso In Air Fryer

Making Queso in an air fryer is quick and easy. Follow these steps to create a creamy and cheesy dip:

Air Fryer Queso (Mexican Cheese Dip) (3)

Dice up the Velveeta into 1-inch pieces—place in the bottom of a baking pan.

Air Fryer Queso (Mexican Cheese Dip) (3)

Add the rest of the ingredients on top of the cheese.

Air Fryer Queso (Mexican Cheese Dip)

Place the pan into the air fryer basket, and set the temperature to 350 degrees F, with the air fryer setting, set cook time for 8-10 minutes. Mix halfway.

Air Fryer Queso (Mexican Cheese Dip)

Recipe Variations

You can customize your air fryer queso with various ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences. Here are some recipe variations to consider:

  • Spicy Queso: Add some heat to your queso by mixing in diced jalapeños or green chilies. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
  • Loaded Queso: Make your queso more indulgent by topping it with cooked and crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro.
  • Beef Queso: Brown some ground beef or chorizo in a skillet separately and then stir it into the queso for a meaty twist.
  • Guacamole Queso: Top your queso with a generous dollop of guacamole for a creamy and flavorful combination.
  • Salsa Verde Queso: Instead of using Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, opt for salsa verde for a tangy and vibrant flavor.
  • Jalapeño Popper Queso: Add cream cheese and diced pickled jalapeños to your queso for a rich and spicy twist.
  • Black Bean Queso: Mix some canned black beans and corn kernels for added texture and flavor.
  • Veggie Queso: Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a savory, veggie-packed queso.
  • Seafood Queso: If you’re a fan of seafood, consider adding cooked shrimp, crab meat, or diced cooked lobster to your queso for a luxurious treat.
  • Mexican Queso Fundido: Create a queso fundido by adding cooked chorizo or crumbled Mexican chorizo and garnishing with chopped fresh cilantro and thinly sliced red onions.

Feel free to get creative with your air fryer queso, and don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. The possibilities are endless, and you can enjoy a different flavor every time you make it!

Making Queso in an air fryer is quick and easy. Follow these steps to create a creamy and cheesy dip:

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips to make the perfect Air Fryer Queso:

  • Use High-Quality Cheese: The quality of your cheese matters. Opt for high-quality cheddar, Monterey Jack, or other cheese varieties for the best melty and creamy texture.
  • Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your queso. Shred your cheese from a block for a smoother melt.
  • Add Cheese Gradually: When incorporating the cheese into your queso, add it gradually and stir continuously. This helps prevent clumping and ensures a smooth consistency.
  • Choose the Right Dairy: Use heavy cream and milk for a creamy texture. Whole milk works well, but you can adjust the cream-to-milk ratio.
  • Low and Slow: Cook your queso at a lower temperature setting in the air fryer. This helps prevent scorching and keeps the cheese from separating.
  • Stir Often: Stir your queso regularly as it cooks to maintain a consistent texture and prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
  • Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild or hot Rotel tomatoes and green chilies or by adding hot sauce to taste.
  • Thin with Broth: If your queso turns out thicker than you’d like, thin it with a bit of chicken or vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Keep It Warm: Once your queso is ready, transfer it to a serving bowl and keep it warm using a slow cooker, warming tray, or a microwave with a “keep warm” function if you plan to serve it over an extended period.

Following these pro tips, you can make a creamy, flavorful, and perfectly textured air fryer queso that everyone will love.

Air Fryer Queso

Faq’s

Can I make queso in an air fryer? Yes, you can make queso in an air fryer. It’s a convenient and efficient way to prepare this delicious cheese dip.

What type of cheese should I use for queso? You can use a combination of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any other melting cheese. Using high-quality cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent my queso from getting too thick or clumpy? To prevent thickening or clumping, add the cheese gradually while stirring continuously. If it does become too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of chicken or vegetable broth.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the queso? Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of your queso by choosing mild or hot Rotel tomatoes and green chilies or by adding hot sauce to taste.

How do I keep my queso warm for serving? You can keep your queso warm by transferring it to a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting, using a warming tray, or using a microwave with a “keep warm” function.

Can I add extra ingredients to my queso, like ground beef or chorizo? Absolutely! Queso is very customizable. Add ground beef, chorizo, or other ingredients to enhance the flavor.

What should I serve with air fryer queso? Air fryer queso pairs well with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, pretzels, or even drizzled over nachos.

Can I make a vegetarian or vegan queso in the air fryer? You can make a vegetarian or vegan queso using plant-based cheese and dairy alternatives. There are many dairy-free and vegan cheese options available.

How long does air fryer queso stay fresh? Air fryer queso can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or stovetop when ready to serve again.

Can I freeze leftover queso? Queso is not recommended to be frozen due to its dairy content. Freezing can alter the texture and consistency of the cheese dip.

Air Fryer Queso

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Air Fryer Queso

Air Fryer Queso

5 from 5 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Air Fryer Queso (Mexican Cheese Dip) is amazing and so easy to make. Today, I made this for my kids as a late snack, which they loved. They kept on eating until the plate was empty!

Ingredients 

  • 1 pound ground chorizo, raw
  • 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese, diced
  • 8 ounces Mexican Cheese
  • 15.5 ounces Rotel with Chiptoles
  • 1/2 cup sliced jalapeno peppers
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powde

Instructions

  • Dice up the Velveeta into 1-inch pieces—place in the bottom of a baking pan.
  • Add the rest of the ingredients on top of the cheese.
  • Place the pan into the air fryer basket, and set the temperature to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting for 8-10 minutes. Mix halfway.
  • Plate, serve, and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Baking Pan

Notes

Before removing the queso from the air fryer, ensure the chorizo’s internal temperature is 160 degrees F.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 355kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 21gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 1036mgPotassium: 259mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 906IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 379mgIron: 1mg

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