White Queso using Monterey Jack Cheese

Ingredients

• 4 cups Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup half-and-half cream
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed

Directions

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in half-and-half cream, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the cheese and cream cheese. Stir until cheese is melted.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve warm with chips or crackers.

Interesting Facts

• Monterey Jack cheese is a mild, semi-hard cheese that is well-suited for melting.
• This cheese was first produced in Monterey, California in the late 19th century.
• Adding a bit of cream cheese helps to make this queso dip creamy and smooth.