This Dairy Queen Zesty Queso Recipe brings the bold, creamy flavor of your favorite dipping sauce right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for pairing with fries, chicken strips, or tortilla chips—ready in minutes using simple ingredients!
If you love the creamy, spicy kick of Dairy Queen’s Zesty Queso, this easy homemade version is going to be a new favorite!
Made with a handful of pantry staples and melty cheese, this dip delivers bold Tex-Mex flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you’re craving that signature cheesy heat without heading to the drive-thru. Serve it warm with tortilla chips, veggies, or drizzle it over nachos—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Bold, cheesy flavor – Just like the classic Dairy Queen queso you love.
- Quick and easy to make – Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep.
- Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients you already have.
- Perfect for any occasion – Ideal for parties, game day, or a cozy night in.
- Customizable heat level – Easily adjust the spice to match your taste!
Dairy Queen Zesty Queso Ingredients
- Butter – Rich, creamy base for melting all ingredients.
- All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the queso to perfect consistency.
- Whole milk – Creamy liquid that forms the queso sauce base.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp, melty cheese for bold, cheesy flavor.
- Diced tomatoes with green chiles – Adds tangy flavor with a mild kick.
- Garlic powder – Brings savory depth without overpowering the cheese.
- Onion powder – Subtle sweetness to balance and enhance flavors.
- Ground cumin – Warm spice for authentic Tex-Mex-style queso.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential final seasoning for perfect flavor balance.
How To Make Dairy Queen Zesty Queso Recipe
Step One: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and starts to bubble slightly—this helps eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step Two: Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens into a creamy base.
Step Three: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well combined and heated through. Pour into a bowl and serve with tortilla chips, pretzels, or as a cheesy dip for fries or veggies.
Dairy Queen Zesty Queso Recipe Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly it melts. Freshly shredded cheese results in a creamier texture.
- Don’t overheat the cheese – Once the cheese is added, lower the heat and stir constantly. Overheating can cause it to become grainy or separate.
- Add milk slowly – Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps and help the sauce thicken evenly.
- Spice it up – Want more kick? Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Serve immediately – Queso is best served warm. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of warm milk to loosen it up.
Storing Instructions
To store leftover queso, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often to maintain its creamy texture. If the sauce thickens too much, just add a splash of milk to loosen it back up. This queso doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
What To Serve Dairy Queen Queso Recipe
Dairy Queen’s Zesty Queso pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips for a classic snack or appetizer. It also makes a delicious topping for tacos, nachos, baked potatoes, or even steamed veggies, adding a creamy, spicy kick to your favorite dishes.
Serve it alongside soft pretzels or use it as a dip for fresh-cut veggies to elevate your snack game with bold, cheesy flavor.
Dairy Queen Zesty Queso Recipe Faqs
Can I make this queso recipe dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk and cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
How can I make the queso spicier? Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to boost the heat to your liking.
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Dairy Queen Zesty Queso Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter,
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour,
- 1 cup whole milk,
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese,
- ½ cup diced tomatoes with green chiles,
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder,
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder,
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin,
- 2 teaspoon salt,
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
- Reduce heat; add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Mix in diced tomatoes with green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips or your favorite dish.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Nutrition
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