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Ultimate Loaded Nacho Bar with Creamy Queso: Easy 15-Min Dip

Ultimate Loaded Nacho Bar with Creamy Queso - featured image
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A quick and easy creamy queso dip made with a classic roux base, perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Served as a loaded bar with toppings like seasoned meat, beans, and fresh veggies.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 large bag tortilla chips (10–12 oz)
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey, browned with taco seasoning
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced
  • Fresh or pickled jalapeños, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into crumbles. Drain excess fat, stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, and simmer for 2 minutes. Set aside.
  2. Rinse and drain black beans. Chop lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions. Place all toppings into small bowls.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne. Whisk constantly for 2 minutes until the mixture smells nutty.
  4. Slowly pour in milk, 1/2 cup at a time, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and simmers gently.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese a handful at a time, stirring gently until melted. Do not boil.
  6. Stir in diced green chiles and lime juice. Taste and add salt as needed.
  7. Spread tortilla chips on a serving platter. Pour warm queso over chips and arrange topping bowls around the platter for guests to assemble.

Notes

Avoid pre-shredded cheese as anti-caking agents can cause graininess. Shred cheese yourself for best results. Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: nacho bar, queso dip, cheese dip, game day food, easy appetizer, loaded nachos, creamy queso, party dip

Find it online: https://tomyumy.com/ultimate-loaded-nacho-bar-with-creamy-queso-easy-15-min-dip/