Introduction
I recently made this Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip for a family gathering, and it was an absolute hit. The rich and creamy cheese, combined with the flavors of chili and spices, made this dip so addictively good that everyone kept going back for more. My family was raving about it, and I quickly realized that this version of the beloved Chili’s queso dip tasted just as good—if not better—than the restaurant version. Whether served with crunchy tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos or nachos, this queso dip is sure to satisfy your cheese cravings!
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip
This Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip is perfect for anyone who loves indulgent, cheesy appetizers. The combination of Velveeta cheese, no-bean chili, and a mix of spices creates a flavor-packed, creamy dip that is the ultimate comfort food. The best part? You can make it in a slow cooker for easy, hands-off cooking, or you can whip it up quickly on the stovetop for a faster version.
Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or just craving a snack, this queso dip is sure to become a go-to recipe. The slow cooker method enhances the flavors as it simmers, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a rich and flavorful dip without the hassle. Plus, with optional garnishes like chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges, you can customize your dip to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
To make this creamy and flavorful Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Queso Dip:
- 32 ounces Velveeta cheese, chopped into chunks
- 2 (15-ounce) cans no-bean chili (e.g., Wolf brand or Hormel)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 tablespoons lime juice (juice from 3 limes)
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips (for dipping)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Slow Cooker Method:
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the chopped Velveeta cheese, no-bean chili, whole milk, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Cook: Set your slow cooker to high heat and cook for 1 hour. Make sure to stir halfway through the cooking time. Alternatively, you can cook the dip on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring once during the cooking time.
- Serve: Once the cheese has melted and all the ingredients are fully combined into a smooth, creamy dip, it’s ready to serve. Serve the queso dip with tortilla chips and optional garnishes like chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges for added flavor.
Stovetop Method:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add the chopped Velveeta cheese, no-bean chili, whole milk, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir the ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
- Cook: Heat the pot over low heat, stirring frequently until the cheese has melted and the dip is smooth. This should take about 5–10 minutes.
- Serve: Once the queso dip is fully melted and smooth, serve it warm with tortilla chips and optional garnishes for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 350 kcal
Other nutritional information (approximate per serving):
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Sodium: 830mg
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time (Slow Cooker): 1 hour (on high) or 2–3 hours (on low)
- Cook Time (Stovetop): 5–10 minutes
How to Serve
This Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip is perfect for serving with various dipping options. Here’s how you can serve it:
- With Tortilla Chips: The classic pairing for queso dip. Serve it with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping.
- As a Nacho Topping: Pour it over tortilla chips for a loaded nacho platter.
- With Veggies: Pair with fresh veggies like bell peppers, celery, or cucumber for a lighter snack.
- As a Taco Topping: Use the queso as a topping for tacos or burritos for extra creaminess and flavor.
- In Burrito Bowls: Drizzle over a burrito bowl filled with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings for a delicious and comforting meal.
Additional Tips
- Use Full-Fat Velveeta Cheese: For the creamiest and most flavorful queso, always use full-fat Velveeta. The lower-fat versions may not melt as smoothly.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dip, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also add more chili powder for extra flavor without the heat.
- Add Ground Beef or Sausage: For a heartier version, cook some ground beef or sausage and stir it into the dip for a meaty twist.
- Customize Your Garnishes: Top the dip with chopped onions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime to add some freshness and zest.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftover dip, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different type of cheese for this dip?
While Velveeta is recommended for its smooth melting texture, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Keep in mind that they may not melt as smoothly as Velveeta. - Can I make this dip in advance?
Yes, you can make the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the slow cooker, on the stovetop, or in the microwave before serving. - Can I freeze this queso dip?
Freezing is not recommended for this dip, as the texture may change once thawed. The cheese may separate, affecting the smoothness. - How do I make this dip spicier?
You can add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even hot sauce to increase the heat level. Adjust according to your taste preferences. - Can I use a different type of chili?
Yes, you can use any no-bean chili that you prefer, but we recommend using a brand like Wolf or Hormel for the best flavor. - Is this dip vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this dip is vegetarian as long as you use vegetarian-friendly chili. - How can I make this dip thicker?
If you prefer a thicker dip, you can reduce the amount of milk or let the dip cook longer to allow it to thicken up. - Can I use low-fat milk or cheese?
While you can use low-fat milk or cheese, the dip may not be as creamy or flavorful as with full-fat ingredients. - How can I make this dip less salty?
Opt for a low-sodium chili, or reduce the amount of salt you add during cooking. You can also rinse the chili before adding it to the dip. - Can I add vegetables to the dip?
Yes! You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions to the dip for extra flavor and texture.
This Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip is easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for sharing at parties or casual get-togethers. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate the restaurant’s iconic dip in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful dip with your favorite tortilla chips or as a topping for nachos and tacos!