Naturally Aged Queso

Overview

Ever wonder why queso ends in the word so? Obviously because it’s so a lot of things: mouth-watering, gooey, and delicious to name a few. And this version, which combines Tillamook Monterey Jack and Medium Cheddar with red onion, tomato, cilantro, and heat from three kinds of peppers, is no exception to the so-delicious rule.

“This Queso is easy to make, easier to love, and the hardest to share. You’ll be surprised how great queso can be with a natural cheese, like Tillamook, and will be rewarded with a burst of flavor that you and your guests (if you let them have it) will love!” – Hosea Rosenberg of Blackbelly Catering

Ingredients

2 cups (8 oz) Tillamook Monterey Jack Cheese, cubed
1 cup (4 oz) Tillamook Medium Cheddar Cheese, cubed
2 jalapeno chili peppers (stems and seeds removed), finely chopped
¼ red onion, diced
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
1 Roma tomato, chopped
1 dash of cayenne pepper
3 dashes Tabasco sauce

Preparation

Preheat oven to 450°F. Mix all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl, then arrange in a terracotta baking dish. Bake in oven until the cheese is thoroughly melted, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven and cool for 2-3 minutes, then enjoy immediately. Gather friends and family and serve as a dip with your favorite tortilla chips.