Creamy Copycat Cafe Rio Queso Recipe

The smooth, melty white queso dip from Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is a customer favorite. This copycat recipe reveals how to recreate Cafe Rio's secret queso using easy-to-find ingredients. With just a few steps, you can make this restaurant-quality dip at home for all your Mexican food needs.

About Cafe Rio's Addictive Queso

Cafe Rio's signature queso dip has reached legendary status with good reason. Here's what makes it so special:

Ultra Creamy and Smooth

It achieves an ultra creamy consistency without separating.

Melty White Cheese

A special blend of melted white cheeses gives it that addictive flavor.

Spicy Kick

It has the perfect hint of heat from peppers and spices.

Fresh Onions and Tomatoes

Diced onions and tomatoes mixed in provide freshness.

How to Make Copycat Cafe Rio Queso

Recreate this restaurant favorite queso with these steps:

Melt Butter

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Mix in Flour

Whisk in flour until a paste forms that bubbles slightly.

Gradually Add Milk

Very gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.

Add Cheeses and Spices

Stir in white cheeses, peppers, cumin, and cayenne pepper.

Finish with Onions and Tomatoes

Mix in fresh diced onions and tomatoes just before serving.

Key Queso Ingredients

Be sure to use these key ingredients:

• Butter - for the roux
• Flour - for thickening
• Milk - for creaminess
• Monterey jack - for melty cheese
• Queso fresco - for tang
• Green chiles - for mild heat

Serving Suggestions

This versatile queso dip is great with:

Tortilla Chips

Scoop with tortilla chips, nacho chips or fritos.

Vegetables

Use as a dip for fresh vegetables like jicama too.

Quesadillas

Add to quesadillas along with other fillings.

Enchiladas and Tacos

Ladle over enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and more.

Tips for the Best Queso

Follow these tips for smooth, creamy queso success:

• Gradually add milk to avoid clumping.
• Stir frequently while thickening.
• Use high-quality aged white cheeses.
• Add salt gradually to taste.
• Garnish with extra onions and peppers.

Conclusion

With its irresistible creaminess, melty cheese flavor, and spicy kick - it's easy to see why Cafe Rio's white queso dip has reached cult status. Now you can recreate this southwestern favorite at home. Your chips and veggies are about to get a major upgrade!

FAQs

What cheese works best in queso?

Aged Monterey or pepper jack for creaminess and bite. Queso fresco adds tang.

Can I prepare the queso in advance?

Yes, cook fully then cool and refrigerate up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What meat goes well with this queso?

Ground beef or chorizo make great additions. Refried beans also pair nicely.

Can I use all heavy cream instead of milk?

You can, but the queso may end up very thick. Half and half also works.

Should I add tomatoes and onions?

Yes, they provide freshness and texture that complements the rich dip.