Mexican Restaurant Cheese Dip

I don’t know about you, but one of the reasons that I love going to Mexican restaurants is for the cheese dip. I fell in love with Mexican cheese dip from the first bite. There’s just something so satisfying about homemade Mexican cheese dip; I had to try my luck at it in the kitchen while cooking at home. Until recently, I had been unable to replicate the recipe to the point where it was just as satisfying as the restaurants I grew to love.

It was a combination of salty, savory, and cheesy that I could not get right. Boy, oh boy! I sure enjoyed trying to make the same dip!

One day, I finally got it right! And now, I’m sure this is the best Mexican restaurant cheese dip recipe you can make at home!

This recipe is the one that I settled on. It tastes as close as I can get to the combination of ingredients. I did get the right combination of salty and savory, and it delivers that creaminess we all love and crave.

I sure hope you like this recipe as much as I do. It is easy to make and even easier to eat!

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• I worked super hard trying to find the perfect combination and succeeded, at least I think so and so does the family. It is not hard to make this easy Mexican restaurant cheese dip for beginners.
• Basic ingredients make this simple Mexican restaurant cheese dip meal a breeze to put together in a few minutes!
• You can swap cheeses for your household’s preferred cheese. Just, keep in mind that if you’re searching for the perfect replica of Mexican cheese dip, I highly recommend sticking to the original ingredients!
• Set it and forget it by using a crockpot–even easier than standing over a hot stove!

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

I have not used any variations as of yet, however, I will be adding jalapenos to the cheese dip the next time I make it.

Cheese: You can swap cheese flavors, or you could add spinach to the dip. Cotija cheeses, pepper jack, and Monterey cheese are all recommended if you’re going for a creamy, yet spicier cheese dip, similar to a local Mexican restaurant.

Milk: Use almond milk (unflavored) for a non-milk substitution. You can also use heavy whipping cream, which results in a much creamier cheese dip. Keep in mind, however, that heavy whipping cream is much more caloric than the milk called for in this recipe.

Chopped green chilis: If you don’t have any fresh green chilis available, consider adding chili powder to this recipe. Using your own variations of spices can help you make your customized homemade Mexican restaurant cheese dip ideas come to life!

Chipotle powder: If you want to explore new spice ideas, try replacing the chipotle powder you intend to use with Cajun or Creole seasoning for a twist.

Ingredients

• Deli-sliced white American cheese
• Chopped green chilis
• Cumin
• Milk
• Chipotle powder, optional

How to Make It

Step 1. Layer your preferred cheese slices (or freshly grated cheese of your choice) in the bottom of a slow cooker.

Step 2. Add the milk, green chilis, cumin, and chipotle powder if using, on top of the cheese slices. Spread ingredients as evenly as possible over the cheese.

Step 3. Place the lid on the slow cooker, and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the cheese is completely melted. It’s best to cook this quick Mexican restaurant cheese dip recipe on low for best results. Cooking your cheese dip on high may cause the cheese to burn or stick to the bottom of your slow cooker, which can be difficult to clean.

Step 4. Stir to combine the ingredients well and serve with tortilla chips or homemade tacos using our taco meat recipe!

Tips for Success

Use blocks of cheese or fresh cheese slices without preservatives. Shredded cheese can be difficult to melt perfectly when preparing this family friendly Mexican restaurant cheese dip.

Avoid mixing too many cheeses or cheeses that are not typically found in Mexican dip. Stick with cheese types known for making dips for the best results!

Storage & Reheating

This Mexican restaurant cheese dip can be stored in an airtight container and in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure the dip is cooled completely.

This Mexican restaurant cheese dip can easily be reheated by placing it in a low-temp, preheated oven (300 degrees Fahrenheit should work). You can heat for 5-10 minutes. You can also reheat the cheese dip in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, per serving.

Can this dip be frozen?

Due to the possibility of separation when the cheese dip thaws, I do not recommend freezing this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

When making a healthy Mexican restaurant cheese dip version, serve the dip with a delicious Mexican sweet bread.

If you’re interested in a more robust dish to serve with your cheese dip, consider trying our Mexican tortilla casserole or Mexican street corn chicken tacos for a truly hearty and savory meal!

Notes

If you want to save a bit of the leftover quick mexican restaurant cheese dip recipe you’ve made, you can do so in airtight containers that are made for single servings. This will allow you to reheat each serving easily within 3-4 days while being stored in your refrigerator.

More Mexican-Inspired Dishes

Mexican Street Tacos – These would go great with the cheese dip!

Chicken Taco Soup – Warm up with a hot bowl!

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas – Delicious and simple!

Easy Beef Tacos – Another recipe that you could add the cheese dip too!