If you love homemade cheese dip, but you're not a fan of recipes that use Velveeta, we've got the perfect queso dip recipe for you right here. This slow cooker queso is a winner for game day or parties where you need some fix it and forget it appetizers. So grab your Crock-Pot and let's make some queso.

This easy recipe happens mostly in your slow cooker, but you do need to start off by sautéing onion, diced jalapeños, garlic and tomatoes in a skillet. Once that's done, put the veggie mix in your slow cooker. Add the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, cream cheese (cut into 2-inch cubes) and milk.

Here's the great part. Put the lid on your Crock-Pot and go finish the rest of your party prep. The slow cooker queso needs to cook on low for a total time of 1 1/2 hours. Check on it from time to time and add a little extra milk if it gets too thick. Right before the party starts, garnish with a little bit of fresh cilantro and put out the tortilla chips. The queso will stay warm and the right consistency in the slow cooker for up to three hours, but we bet your guests will finish it before then!

No-Velveeta Slow Cooker Queso 

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 1 1/2 hours

servings

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 tbs butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 jalapeños, diced
  • 14 oz canned fired roasted tomatoes (Or use 2 cups fresh if they're in season!)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cut into 2 inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup milk (Use more as needed)
  • Chopped cilantro (Optional garnish)

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter then sauté the onion and jalapeño until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and tomatoes and cook for 1 minute more.

Transfer vegetable mix to the the slow cooker and add the shredded cheese, cream cheese, and milk. Cover and cook on low for 1 1/2 hours.

Check on the queso, stirring well. If it's too thick, add extra milk, about 1-2 tbs at a time.

Serve, topped with fresh cilantro if desired. Can stay warm in the slow cooker for about 3 hours without much change to consistency, but I doubt it'll last that long!

Nutrition Facts
No-Velveeta Slow Cooker Queso
Amount Per Serving
Calories 653 Calories from Fat 486
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 54g 83%
Saturated Fat 35g 175%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 5g
Cholesterol 89mg 30%
Sodium 984mg 41%
Potassium 95mg 3%
Total Carbohydrates 11g 4%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Sugars 4g
Protein 32g 64%
Vitamin A 28%
Vitamin C 8%
Calcium 38%
Iron 4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.