Qdoba-Style Three-Cheese Queso

This recipe substitutes industrial oils and processed ingredients with grass-fed cheeses and avocado oil, resulting in a rich, velvety texture.

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Ingredients

  • 8 oz organic sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 oz organic Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz organic Queso Fresco, crumbled
  • 1 tbsp arrowroot starch (or organic cornstarch)
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small jalapeño or poblano pepper, seeded and finely diced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 cups organic whole milk
  • 1 small tomato, seeded and diced (for garnish)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

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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 white cheddar and Monterey Jack with the arrowroot starch until evenly coated (this keeps the queso smooth without processed stabilizers).
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat the avocado oil over medium-low heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and diced jalapeño and sauté for 1–2 minutes until softened and fragrant but not browned.
  4. Stir in the cumin and smoked paprika, toasting for 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in the whole milk and bring to a very gentle simmer (do not let it reach a rolling boil).
  6. Reduce the heat to low and add the starch-coated cheddar and Monterey Jack in handfuls, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
  7. Fold in the Queso Fresco last and stir until just combined; season with flaky sea salt.
  8. Top with diced tomato and serve immediately with organic corn tortilla chips or cucumber slices.

FAQ

Can I use melted butter instead of avocado oil?

Yes, you can substitute avocado oil with melted butter if preferred.

Is there an alternative to evaporated milk for a vegan option?

For a vegan version, you can use coconut cream or unsweetened fortified plant-based milk like almond or soy.

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