Name: Banana Pepper Queso Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
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; Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Banana Pepper Queso Dip is a creamy, flavorful twist on classic queso with a mild spicy kick from fresh banana peppers. This warm dip blends sharp cheddar and smooth Monterey Jack cheeses for a rich and tangy taste that’s perfect for game days, parties, or casual snacking.

The image shows a black cast iron skillet placed on a dark wooden board over a navy blue cloth, all set on a white marbled surface. Inside the skillet is a creamy egg base covered with a layer of melted yellow cheddar cheese that has browned spots, mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper and topped with chopped green onions scattered evenly across. Surrounding the skillet are slices of toasted bread with a golden crust and soft interiors, ready to be dipped into the cheesy egg mixture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

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

Tips & Variations

Drain the diced tomatoes well to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
For more heat, substitute some banana peppers with jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
To lighten the dip, use reduced-fat cheeses and milk.
For a dairy-free version, try plant-based cheeses and milk alternatives, though texture and flavor may vary.
Gradually melt the cheese over low heat to avoid clumping and create a smooth dip.

Storage

Store leftover queso dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat or use short intervals in the microwave, stirring frequently to maintain a creamy consistency. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore smoothness.

How to Serve

A black cast iron skillet filled with a melted cheesy dip showing a creamy yellow base mixed with white cheese, garnished with chopped red peppers and green onions scattered evenly on top, and specks of black pepper. The skillet sits on a wooden board over a dark blue cloth on a white marbled surface. Around the skillet, there are a few slices of toasted white bread with a golden-brown crust. In the background, a gray bowl contains extra green onions. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance and reheat it gently before serving. Just be sure to stir well and add a little milk if needed to keep it creamy.

What can I serve with Banana Pepper Queso Dip?

This dip pairs well with classic tortilla chips, crunchy vegetables like celery and bell peppers, or as a topping for nachos, baked potatoes, and tacos for a heartier option.