Creamy Roasted Poblano Queso Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Poblano Queso is a creamy, smoky cheese dip perfect for any gathering or game day. Roasted poblano peppers add a deep, rich flavor that elevates the classic queso to something special. Easy to make and irresistible to eat!

Ingredients
- 2 poblano peppers
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk (more if needed to reach desired consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Roast the poblano peppers by placing them over an open flame or under the broiler. Turn occasionally until the skin is charred and blistered, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and cover with a towel to steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove stems and seeds, then finely chop the peppers.
- Step 2: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant, avoiding burning. Stir in cumin and chili powder and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally for 3-4 minutes. Lower heat to medium-low and gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Step 4: Slowly add milk to achieve desired consistency, continuing to stir until fully combined and smooth.
- Step 5: Stir in the roasted chopped poblano peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
- Step 6: Let the queso simmer on low for 3-5 minutes to thicken and meld flavors. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed, and check seasoning.
- Step 7: Remove from heat, transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips or veggies.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño along with the poblanos before roasting.
- Use smoked paprika instead of chili powder for a deeper smoky flavor.
- Substitute half the Monterey Jack with pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
- If you prefer a thinner dip, add milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Storage
Store leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk to restore creamy texture as needed.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned or jarred roasted poblano peppers?
Yes, you can use jarred roasted poblanos to save time, but fresh roasted peppers will provide a smokier, fresher flavor.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping when melting?
Add the shredded cheese gradually over low to medium heat, stirring constantly. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from separating or clumping.
PrintCreamy Roasted Poblano Queso Dip Recipe
This creamy and smoky Poblano Queso recipe combines roasted poblano peppers with a rich blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, seasoned with cumin and chili powder for a flavorful cheese dip. Perfect for serving warm with tortilla chips or as a topping for Mexican dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups (serves 6–8 as a dip) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
For the Poblano Queso:
- 2 poblano peppers
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk (more if needed to reach desired consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Roast the Poblano Peppers: Place the poblano peppers directly over an open flame on your stovetop or under the broiler in your oven. Turn occasionally until the skin is charred and blistered on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off skins, remove stems and seeds, then finely chop the peppers.
- Cook the Garlic and Spices: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add cumin and chili powder, cooking for another 30 seconds while stirring to release aromas.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally for 3-4 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and gradually add shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to melt the cheese smoothly. Slowly add milk to achieve desired sauce consistency, stirring until smooth.
- Add the Roasted Poblano Peppers: Stir in the chopped roasted poblano peppers until evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste and combine well.
- Simmer and Adjust Consistency: Let the queso simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes to thicken and meld flavors. If too thick, add more milk to thin. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder as preferred.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and transfer queso to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro or extra cheese if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips or as a flavorful topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.
Notes
- Roasting the poblanos adds a smoky depth that is crucial for authentic flavor.
- Gradually adding cheese and stirring helps prevent clumping and ensures a smooth sauce.
- Adjust milk quantity to customize the dip consistency from thick to pourable.
- This dip is best served warm and can be reheated gently on low heat with occasional stirring.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños with the spices.
Keywords: poblano queso, queso dip, roasted poblano, cheese dip, Mexican appetizer, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, smoky cheese dip

