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Banana Pepper Queso Dip Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 34 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