Chipotle-Style Queso Blanco

This version swaps industrial seed oils and processed flavorings for organic, artisan cheeses and avocado oil, delivering a richer, minimally processed experience.

↓ Jump to Recipe 0 cooked this Pin

Ingredients

  • 1 lb organic Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup organic white cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tbsp tapioca starch
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced (rinsed and patted dry)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/4 cups organic whole milk
  • Sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links are affiliate links — if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Shop the clean pantry

Reorder the shelf-stable staples for this recipe.

What you'll need

  • Half-sheet pan — Bake, broil, or roast appetizers on a flat, rimmed surface.
  • Small ramekins — Individual portions for dips, baked eggs, and small bites.
  • Pastry brush — Brush egg wash or oil on dough without tearing it.

Instructions

  1. Toss the shredded Monterey Jack and white cheddar with the tapioca starch until evenly coated — this keeps the queso smooth and prevents it from seizing.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the avocado oil over medium-low heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds to release the spices' aroma.
  5. Pour in the whole milk and warm gently, whisking to combine — do not let it boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low and add the starch-coated cheese one handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition melts smoothly before adding the next.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper and remove from heat as soon as the texture is creamy. Serve warm with organic corn chips or sliced vegetables.

FAQ

Can I substitute the avocado oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can use alternative seed oils like olive oil (ensure extra virgin) or coconut oil if you prefer, but they should be organic and preferably not refined.

What kind of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce should I choose?

Select jarred chipotle peppers in adobo sauce that are labeled organic. Avoid those with added sugars or preservatives.

More from Chipotle

Also try

Cooked it?

Tap to add it to the count of cooks who made this.