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The Ultimate Nacho Cheese Dip Recipe

Creamy, Spicy Nacho Cheese Dip

This ultra-creamy, spicy nacho cheese dip is a game-day essential! Made with real cheese, jalapeños, and smoked paprika, it’s miles better than store-bought. Serve it warm with chips or drizzle over loaded nachos!
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Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Dip
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 220kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp jalapeños finely diced (fresh or pickled)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: Hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra heat

Instructions

  • Toss shredded cheeses with cornstarch in a bowl.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream until steaming.
  • Reduce heat to low and gradually add cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
  • Stir in jalapeños, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
  • Adjust spice level with hot sauce if desired.
  • Transfer to a bowl and serve immediately with tortilla chips or veggies.

Notes

  • Cheese Matters: Always shred your own cheese for the creamiest texture.
  • Reheating: Add a splash of milk if the dip thickens upon standing.
  • Spice Swap: Replace jalapeños with roasted green chiles for milder heat.
  • Double Batch: This recipe scales up easily for larger crowds.
  • Make It Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and coconut cream (adjust flavors to taste).

Nutrition

Serving: 0.25cup | Calories: 220kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 250mg | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 250mg