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Pappasito’s Queso

ByRestauFeed

Bring the flavor of an authentic queso dip to your table with this copycat recipe. Pappasito’s Queso is loaded with onions, garlic, green chilis, cheese, and fresh tomatoes, and it’s perfect with a huge bowl of tortilla chips.

Copycat Pappasito's queso dip and tortilla chips next to it.

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What makes Pappasito’s Queso so delicious? 

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that queso dip is just a version of standard nacho cheese – it is so much more. This take on the version served at Pappasito’s is packed with bold, robust flavors that can turn ordinary nacho chips into a standout meal.

The creamy cheese, fresh tomatoes and onions, and aromatic garlic and spice come together in a delicious dish that you will want to make again and again. 

Why you are going to love this recipe 

Skipping the jar and making queso from scratch has never been so easy. This Pappasito’s Queso recipe uses only common ingredients you can find in every supermarket and takes mere minutes to prepare. The result is a fresh, vibrant queso that is so much more delicious than anything you can find in a store.

Pappasito’s Queso is so much more than just a dip – you can use it in burritos and quesadillas or as a topping on nachos, burgers, hot dogs, baked potatoes, and steamed veggies. For taste and versatility, this Pappasito’s Queso recipe is a keeper. 

Pappasito’s Queso recipe ingredients

For this Pappasito’s Queso recipe, you’ll need:

  • Onion
  • Tomatoes
  • Garlic
  • Whole Milk
  • American cheese
  • Green Chilies with juice, canned
  • Garlic Salt
Copycat pappasito's queso dip ingredients on a tray.

How to queso like Pappasito’s

To prepare the Queso:

  1. Chop the onions and tomatoes into small dice. Discard the tomato seeds. Keep the chopped vegetables separate and save them for later.
  2. Mince the garlic and reserve. 
  3. Heat the milk in a saucepan over low heat.
  4. When the milk is warm, add the American cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts, and adjust the heat to prevent it from coming to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the chopped green chilies from the can, along with any juice.
  6. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pan.
  7. Cook until the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally.
  8. Stir in the garlic salt and cook for a minute more while continuing to stir.
  9. Turn off the heat and then add the chopped tomatoes just before serving. 
Making copycat pappasito's queso dip.

What to serve with Pappasito’s Queso

Queso dip is an excellent appetizer for any South-of-the-border-themed meal. Try pairing this dip with a few other Mexican-inspired recipes:

Guacamole. Since you already have the tortilla chips out, why not make this Chipotle Mexican Grill Guacamole copycat recipe?  This updated version adds a finely minced jalapeno pepper for just the right amount of heat. 

Chicken Quesadilla. Whether you are making these for a family meal or as a snack for a party, you won’t have to worry about what to do with the leftovers. Everyone loves these simple-to-make Chicken Quesadillas, especially when you serve them with a variety of toppings for customization. 

Spicy Potato Tacos. Spicy Potato Tacos inspired by the ones they sell at Taco Bell are packed with crispy seasoned potatoes, cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, and topped with creamy chipotle sauce.  A few make a good meal, while one is a perfect snack. 

Copycat Pappasito's queso dip with tortilla chips.

How to store and reheat the leftovers

For safety, throw away any of the Pappasito’s Queso dip that has been out of the fridge for longer than ten minutes. But you can save any dip you didn’t serve. Transfer the cooled dip into an airtight container and stick it in the refrigerator.

To reheat the dip:

  1. Put the dip into a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
  2. Since the queso will thicken up when it sits in the fridge, add a few tablespoons of milk or cream while reheating.
  3. Use a rubber spatula to continuously stir the dip until hot.

How long does the queso last?

The dip should stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. 

Copycat Pappasito's queso dip and tortilla chips on a platter.

Love queso? Try these recipes!

Be sure to check out more of my easy Mexican food recipes and the best copycat restaurant recipes here on CopyKat.com!

And, I would love to hear about your favorite queso dip – just drop me a line in the comments section. Be sure to follow us on Facebook!

Copycat Pappasito's queso dip and tortilla chips next to it.

Pappasito’s Queso

Make Pappasito’s Queso for a tasty appetizer with this easy copycat recipe. A creamy Mexican cheese dip with chiles, garlic, onion, and tomatoes.