Banana Pepper Queso Dip Recipe

Introduction

Banana Pepper Queso Dip is a creamy, flavorful cheese dip with a subtle kick from fresh banana peppers and a hint of smoky spices. Perfect for parties or a cozy snack, this queso dip pairs wonderfully with chips, veggies, or warm tortillas.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3–4 banana peppers, chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in the garlic and chopped banana peppers, cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Step 4: Mix in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
6. Step 6: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Step 7: Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
8. Step 8: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
9. Step 9: Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, include some of the banana pepper seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use low-fat milk for a lighter version, but the dip may be less creamy.
• Swap Monterey Jack with Pepper Jack cheese for a spicier twist.
• Serve with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, or warm pita bread for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover queso dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess. Add a splash of milk if the dip thickens too much during reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of peppers in this dip?

Yes, you can substitute banana peppers with other mild peppers like poblano or Anaheim. For more heat, use jalapeños but adjust quantity to taste.

Is this dip gluten-free?

The recipe uses all-purpose flour which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use about 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with cold milk before adding).

Banana Pepper Queso Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 56 reviews

A creamy and flavorful Banana Pepper Queso Dip made with sautéed onions, garlic, banana peppers, and cheeses, perfect for serving warm as a party appetizer or snack.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dip
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3–4 banana peppers, chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional

• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat to create the base for the dip.
2. Sauté Onions: Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent, releasing their sweetness.
3. Add Garlic and Banana Peppers: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped banana peppers, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors and soften the peppers.
4. Combine Tomatoes and Spices: Mix in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and salt, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw taste and help thicken the dip.
6. Incorporate Milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth, thickened sauce without lumps.
7. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until melted and the dip is creamy.
8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the queso dip and adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm with chips or veggies.

Notes

• Remove banana pepper seeds to reduce heat if you prefer a milder dip.
• Use full-fat cheeses and milk for the creamiest texture.
• Serve warm for the best flavor and consistency.
• This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: Banana Pepper Queso Dip, cheese dip, party appetizer, creamy dip, spicy cheese dip, warm dip