Name: Banana Pepper Queso Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/3 cup diced banana peppers (pickled or fresh); 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional); 1/4 cup finely chopped onions; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro or green onions

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Banana Pepper Queso Dip is a creamy, tangy twist on the classic Tex-Mex favorite. Featuring shredded cheddar and the mild heat of banana peppers, this dip is perfect for game days, parties, or casual snacking. It’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with chips and fresh veggies.

A black cast iron skillet holds a two-layered baked dip: the bottom layer is creamy with bits of red and green vegetables mixed throughout, topped by a golden-brown melted cheese layer with browned spots giving a bubbly texture. At the center, there is a pile of halved bright red cherry tomatoes and chopped green onions scattered over the cheese. The skillet sits on a wooden board on a white marbled surface, surrounded by large, triangular yellow corn chips. A white bowl filled with more yellow corn chips is partially visible in the upper right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/3 cup diced banana peppers (pickled or fresh)
1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped onions
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the cream cheese and sour cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and the dip is smooth.
Step 3: Stir in the diced banana peppers, tomatoes if using, chopped onions, and minced garlic.
Step 4: Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors evenly.
Step 5: Cook the mixture on low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened.
Step 6: Remove from heat and transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or crackers.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier dip, substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese.
Add cooked ground chorizo or black beans for a heartier version.
Use reduced-fat cheeses and replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Fresh herbs like cilantro brighten the flavor and add a fresh touch.
Serve with a variety of dippers such as pretzels, baguette slices, or colorful vegetable sticks.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of preparation. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid separation. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore a creamy texture.

How to Serve

This image shows a cast iron skillet filled with a creamy, golden-brown baked dip with browned cheese all over the top. The dip has layers of white and light yellow melted cheese with scattered bits of red and green, likely vegetables. On top, there is a pile of bright red sliced cherry tomatoes and finely chopped green onions, adding fresh color. The skillet sits on a dark wooden board surrounded by triangular light brown tortilla chips, with more chips in a round white bowl above the skillet, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh banana peppers instead of pickled?

Yes, fresh banana peppers will work and provide a milder, less tangy flavor. If you prefer a tangier dip, pickled banana peppers are the better choice.

What can I serve with this queso dip?

Classic tortilla chips are ideal, but fresh vegetable sticks, pretzels, crackers, or toasted bread slices all make excellent dippers that complement the creamy, spicy dip.