10 Things to Do with Queso Besides Make Dip
Updated: Jan. 18, 2023Dip's great, but you'll be so glad you know these other amazing ways to use Mexican cheese, courtesy of chef Aarón Sánchez.
Whether it’s crumbled, wedged or melted, cheese appears in almost every type of cuisine. And, of course, Mexican food is no exception. Take your pick from queso blanco, cotija, queso fresco and so much more.
“There’s something user-friendly about cheese,” says Aarón Sánchez, award-winning Latin chef, restaurateur, TV personality and lifetime cheese lover. Sure, you can melt a soft cheese to become an amazing dip, but there’s so much more these cheeses can do!
Chef Aarón teamed up with Cacique and Taste of Home to show you how to get creative with that package of Mexican cheese in your fridge.
Use It Like Salt
“I love to use Mexican cheese as a seasoning,” says the chef, “just like you would salt.” It’s what makes this street corn taste so irresistible.
Amp up Tacos
A rich, meaty dish—like these short rib tacos—only gets better when it’s complemented with a creamy cheese like queso fresco, or a bolder one like cotija.
Shred It over Sopes
In this sopes recipe, swap the cheddar for a Mexican blend—and make sure to use plenty of creamy, luscious crema, too, says the chef.
Toss It on a Griddle
Try mixing cheese in with the fritter batter here for a caramelized, melty treat.
Make Mac 'n' Cheese
Here’s a childhood favorite all grown up. Add chorizo for even more Mexican flare.Find out what Chef cooks for his own son. The chef says, “He loves cheese so much, I call him my little raton,” which means mouse!
Melt It into Enchiladas
Mexican cheeses are beautiful to melt, says the chef. Add them to the enchilada filling and layer some on top, too. (Enchilado cheese would be a shoo-in for this!)
Stir It into Chili
Cheddar’s a classic chili topper (especially if you’re from Cincinnati). Mix it up a little with a Mexican cheese instead.
Sprinkle It on Heirloom Tomatoes
It’s hard to improve on a fresh-picked tomato, sliced and sprinkled with a little salt—until you try it with queso fresco. Not only does the cheese add saltiness, you get some creaminess, too.
Spotlight It on a Cheese Board
Pile a platter with soft cheeses like Oaxaca and firmer choices, such as Manchego. Then mix in bite-sized pieces of citrus, nuts, cherry tomatoes and big hunks of bread for a gorgeous snack tray. Follow our pro tips for an amazing cheese board, anytime.
