If you’re looking for a delightful dip that balances creaminess with a touch of spice, look no further than this White Spinach Queso. Perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or just a cozy evening at home, this queso is a crowd-pleaser that combines the gooey goodness of cheese with the freshness of spinach and a hint of heat from jalapeños. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your cheese cravings but also sneaks in some greens, making it a win-win for any cheese lover.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This White Spinach Queso is a keeper for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep and cooking time. Second, it’s versatile; you can serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, use it as a topping for tacos, or even drizzle it over grilled chicken or veggies. Lastly, the combination of white American cheese and pepper jack creates a rich and flavorful experience that will have your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, this queso will not disappoint.

Ingredients at a Glance

To make this delectable White Spinach Queso, you will need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced white onion
1 seeded and diced jalapeño
12 ounces shredded white American cheese
4 ounces shredded pepper jack cheese
1 cup half and half
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
2 cups chopped fresh spinach
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment Breakdown

Before diving into the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need:

Medium saucepan: Ideal for melting the cheese and combining all the ingredients over medium heat.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and ensuring the cheese melts evenly without sticking.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for dicing the onion and jalapeño and chopping the spinach and cilantro.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of your ingredients.

Build White Spinach Queso Step by Step

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In your medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced white onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the seeded and diced jalapeño, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Add the Creamy Base

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the half and half. Gradually add the shredded white American cheese and pepper jack cheese, stirring continuously until everything is melted and creamy. Be patient; this step may take a few minutes, but the result will be worth it.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spinach

Once the cheese is melted, fold in the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles. Then, add the chopped fresh spinach and stir until the spinach wilts and is well combined with the cheese mixture.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Cilantro

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. This adds a wonderful freshness that elevates the flavor of the queso.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the White Spinach Queso to a serving bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips or your choice of dippers. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make some adjustments for a healthier version of this White Spinach Queso, consider the following:

Use low-fat cheese: Substitute with low-fat shredded cheese to reduce calories.
Swap half and half: Use almond milk or a low-fat milk option for a lighter cream base.
Add more veggies: Sneak in additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Use less cheese: Reduce the amount of cheese and increase the spinach for a greener dip.

Pro Perspective

From my experience, the secret to a smooth and creamy White Spinach Queso lies in the cheese. Using a combination of white American and pepper jack not only gives it a great flavor but also ensures a velvety texture. Be sure to stir continuously while melting the cheese to prevent clumping. And remember, the addition of fresh cilantro right at the end is key; it brightens the dish and takes it to the next level. For those who love a heartier meal, try pairing this queso with Steak And Queso With Rice for a complete experience.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your White Spinach Queso:

Store: Keep the queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: This queso can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be mindful that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheat: Gently reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of milk or water to get it back to the desired consistency.

That’s a Wrap

This White Spinach Queso recipe is more than just a dip; it’s an experience that brings people together. With its creamy texture, zesty flavor, and nutritious greens, it’s a dish that fits perfectly into any gathering or casual night in. The combination of cheeses creates a delightful balance, while the spinach and cilantro add freshness that elevates each bite. Whether you are a queso connoisseur or a casual diner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every gooey, cheesy moment!