Name: Copycat Chili’s White Spinach Queso Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tbsp canola oil; 2 cups baby spinach leaves; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp flour; ¾ cup whole milk; ½ tsp garlic powder; 8 oz white American cheese; 2 cups Jack cheese; pico de gallo salsa; queso fresco crumbles; Guacamole

This delicious copycat Chili's white spinach queso recipe brings the rich and creamy flavors of a restaurant classic right to your home. It's a perfect appetizer for any gathering, combining melted cheeses, savory spinach, and a touch of spice from pico de gallo salsa. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Photos of Copycat Chili’s White Spinach Queso Recipe

For this recipe, you may need to visit your local supermarket for a few ingredients that might not be commonly found in a typical home pantry. White American cheese and jack cheese can usually be found in the deli section or with other specialty cheeses. Pico de gallo salsa is typically available in the refrigerated section near other fresh salsas. Queso fresco is a type of Mexican cheese usually found in the dairy or specialty cheese section.

Ingredients For Copycat Chili's White Spinach Queso

Canola oil: Neutral-flavored oil used for sautéing the spinach.

Baby spinach leaves: Fresh, tender spinach leaves that will wilt quickly when cooked.

Butter: Adds richness to the queso and helps create the roux.

Flour: Used to thicken the queso.

Whole milk: Provides creaminess and helps to blend the cheeses.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the queso.

White American cheese: Creamy and mild, it melts smoothly into the queso.

Jack cheese: Adds a bit of sharpness and additional creaminess.

Pico de gallo salsa: Fresh salsa that adds a burst of flavor and a bit of spice.

Queso fresco crumbles: A mild, crumbly Mexican cheese used as a topping.

Guacamole: Optional, but adds a creamy and flavorful topping.

One reader, Eadie Atwood says:

This copycat Chili's white spinach queso recipe is amazing! The creamy, cheesy blend with spinach is perfect. The broiled top adds a delightful texture, and the toppings elevate the dish. It's a hit at every gathering!

Eadie Atwood

Techniques Required

How to wilt spinach: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add spinach, and cook until just wilted. How to make a roux: Melt butter in a pan, add flour, and stir continuously for about 20 seconds. How to broil: Set the oven to broil and cook the dish for 1 to 2 minutes until the top is golden brown.

How To Make Copycat Chili’s White Spinach Queso

If you’re a fan of chips and salsa, well you better try our version of Chili’s White Spinach Queso recipe, made with two kinds of cheeses and pico de gallo.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspcanola oil
2cupsbaby spinach leaves
2tbspbutter
2tbspflour
¾cupwhole milk
½tspgarlic powder
8ozwhite American cheese
2cupsJack cheese
pico de gallo salsaoptional
queso fresco crumblesoptional
guacamoleoptional

Instructions

Set the oven to broil.
In a cast iron skillet add the canola oil on medium high heat.
Add the spinach and cook until just wilted, then remove from the pan.
Add the butter to the pan, then the flour, stir and cook for 20 seconds before adding in the milk slowly.
Add in the garlic powder and whisk well before adding in the cheeses.
Stir the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until thick and bubbly then add in the spinach and stir.
Broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Top with salsa, queso and guacamole (optional).

Nutrition

Calories: 186.75kcal
Fat: 14.89g
Saturated Fat: 8.69g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.64g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.77g
Carbohydrates: 3.60g
Fiber: 0.08g
Sugar: 0.90g
Protein: 9.81g
Cholesterol: 38.29mg
Sodium: 322.81mg
Calcium: 277.80mg
Potassium: 119.36mg
Iron: 0.39mg
Vitamin A: 74.58µg
Vitamin C: 0.47mg

Technique Tip for Making This Queso

When making the roux with butter and flour, ensure you cook it just long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste but not so long that it browns. This will keep your queso smooth and creamy without any unwanted flavors.

How to Save Time on Making This Queso

Pre-wilt the spinach: Cook the spinach in advance and store it in the fridge to save time during preparation.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to cut down on prep time.

Microwave the milk: Warm the milk in the microwave before adding it to the pan to speed up the thickening process.

Ready-made pico de gallo: Purchase pico de gallo from the store instead of making it from scratch.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Copycat Chili’s White Spinach Queso Recipe

canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar cooking medium with a slightly richer flavor.
baby spinach leaves - Substitute with kale: Kale offers a similar texture and nutritional profile, though it has a slightly stronger flavor.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in place of butter for a similar texture and taste, especially in cooking and baking.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken sauces similarly to flour, though you may need to use slightly less.
whole milk - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half provides a richer, creamier texture, though it has a higher fat content.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more robust and aromatic flavor, though you may need to adjust the quantity.
white american cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor similar to white American cheese.
jack cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a similar melt and flavor profile, though it is slightly sharper.
pico de gallo salsa - Substitute with store-bought salsa: Store-bought salsa can provide a similar mix of tomatoes, onions, and spices, though it may be more processed.
queso fresco crumbles - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor, making it a good alternative.
guacamole - Substitute with smashed avocado: Smashed avocado provides a similar creamy texture and flavor, though it lacks the additional ingredients found in guacamole.

Best Way to Present This Delicious Queso

Serve in a cast iron skillet: Utilize a small, preheated cast iron skillet to maintain the warmth and rustic charm of the queso.
Layer the ingredients: Begin with a smooth layer of the white spinach queso, followed by a delicate sprinkle of queso fresco crumbles for texture.
Add vibrant toppings: Spoon a generous amount of pico de gallo salsa in the center, creating a colorful contrast against the creamy queso.
Garnish with guacamole: Place a dollop of guacamole atop the pico de gallo, adding a rich, creamy element to the dish.
Finish with microgreens: Scatter a few microgreens or finely chopped fresh herbs around the edges for a touch of elegance and freshness.
Serve with artisan chips: Accompany the dish with a side of artisan tortilla chips, arranged neatly around the skillet for easy dipping.
Use a decorative plate: Place the skillet on a larger, decorative plate to catch any drips and enhance the overall presentation.
Drizzle with infused oil: Lightly drizzle some chili-infused oil over the top for an added layer of flavor and a touch of sophistication.

Best Tools for Making This Queso

Cast iron skillet: Essential for cooking the spinach and making the cheese sauce, as it retains heat well and can go from stovetop to broiler.
Broiler: Used to achieve a golden brown top on the queso.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the spinach and cheese mixture.
Whisk: Necessary for mixing the flour and butter with the milk to create a smooth sauce.
Measuring spoons: Needed for accurately measuring the canola oil, butter, flour, and garlic powder.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk and cheeses.
Knife: Handy for chopping the spinach if needed.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the spinach.
Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot cast iron skillet when moving it to and from the broiler.
Serving dish: Ideal for presenting the finished queso with toppings.

How to Store / Freeze This Queso

Allow the queso to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the cheese sauce watery.
Transfer the queso to an airtight container. If you have a lot, consider dividing it into smaller portions to make reheating easier and more efficient.
Store the container in the refrigerator. The queso will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, place the queso in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Ensure you leave some space at the top as the queso will expand when frozen.
Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness. The queso can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the queso in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.
Reheat the queso gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning or separating. You can also use a microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring in between.
If the queso appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of whole milk or heavy cream to reach the desired consistency.
Top with fresh pico de gallo salsa, queso fresco crumbles, and guacamole just before serving to restore its original vibrant flavors and textures.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover white spinach queso in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through and bubbly. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Use a microwave-safe dish to reheat the queso. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the queso is hot and creamy.
Reheat the queso on the stovetop for a quick and even method. Place the queso in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Add a splash of whole milk if the queso seems too thick, and continue to stir until it's hot and smooth.
For a unique twist, use a slow cooker to reheat the queso. Set the slow cooker to the low setting and add the queso. Cover and heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect for keeping the queso warm during a gathering or party.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the queso. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the queso in an air fryer-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the queso is hot and bubbly.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this recipe is that white American cheese is often used in queso dips because it melts smoothly and creates a creamy texture, making it a popular choice for achieving that perfect, gooey consistency.

Is This Queso Economical for Home Cooking?

This recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of white American cheese and jack cheese can be a bit pricey, but the other ingredients like spinach, milk, and garlic powder are relatively inexpensive. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $15-$20. Considering the rich flavors and the restaurant-quality experience it provides, the overall verdict would be a solid 7 out of 10.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This copycat Chili's white spinach queso recipe is undeniably delicious but leans towards the unhealthy side. The primary culprits are the high-fat ingredients: butter, whole milk, and a substantial amount of cheese. These contribute to high levels of saturated fat and calories. While spinach adds a nutritional boost with vitamins and minerals, the overall dish is calorie-dense and high in fat.

To make this recipe healthier:

Use olive oil instead of canola oil for healthier fats.
Replace butter with a smaller amount of olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or skim milk to reduce calories and fat.
Opt for reduced-fat cheese or a blend of part-skim mozzarella and a smaller amount of white American cheese.
Increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for added nutrients and fiber.
Serve with baked tortilla chips or vegetable sticks instead of fried chips to cut down on unhealthy fats.

Editor's Thoughts on This Queso Recipe

This recipe for white spinach queso is a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors. The combination of white American and jack cheeses creates a rich, smooth texture, while the wilted spinach adds a fresh, earthy note. The broiling step ensures a beautifully golden top, enhancing both the appearance and taste. Topping with pico de gallo, queso fresco, and guacamole adds vibrant color and layers of flavor. Overall, this dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or as a comforting appetizer.

Enhance Your Copycat Chili’s White Spinach Queso Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Imagine pairing the creamy, cheesy goodness of the white spinach queso with succulent grilled shrimp skewers. The smoky, charred flavor of the shrimp complements the rich, velvety texture of the queso, creating a harmonious blend of seafood and cheese that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Roasted Red Pepper Soup: A bowl of roasted red pepper soup can be the perfect companion to your queso. The sweet, smoky notes of the roasted peppers provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy dip. Plus, the vibrant red color of the soup adds a visual appeal that makes the entire meal more inviting.

Mango Avocado Salad: For a refreshing and zesty side, consider a mango avocado salad. The sweetness of the mango and the creaminess of the avocado create a delightful counterpoint to the savory, cheesy queso. Toss in some red onions and a splash of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Spicy Chicken Wings: Turn up the heat with some spicy chicken wings. The fiery kick of the wings pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy queso, creating a tantalizing contrast that will keep you coming back for more. The crispy skin and tender meat of the wings add a satisfying crunch to the meal.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A side of cilantro lime rice can be the perfect way to round out your queso experience. The bright, citrusy notes of the lime and the fresh, herbaceous flavor of the cilantro provide a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy dip. The fluffy texture of the rice makes it an ideal vehicle for scooping up every last bit of queso.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Queso

Spinach Artichoke Dip: Dive into a creamy blend of spinach and artichokes, perfect for any gathering. This dip is a crowd-pleaser, served hot and bubbly with a side of crispy tortilla chips or crusty bread.

Loaded Nachos: Layered with melted cheese, jalapeños, black beans, and a generous dollop of sour cream, these nachos are the ultimate comfort food. Top with pico de gallo and guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.

Cheesy Garlic Bread: Transform your ordinary bread into a cheesy, garlicky delight. Perfect as a side dish or an appetizer, this garlic bread is loaded with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, and baked to golden perfection.

Buffalo Chicken Dip: A spicy, creamy dip that's a hit at any party. Made with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cream cheese, this dip is best served with celery sticks or tortilla chips.

Queso Fundido: A Mexican classic, this dish features melted cheese mixed with chorizo and poblano peppers. Serve it hot with warm tortillas for a delicious, gooey treat.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts for This Queso

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Chicken Alfredo: Elevate your pasta night with a creamy alfredo sauce made from scratch. Sauté tender chicken breasts until golden brown, then simmer them in a rich blend of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic. Toss with perfectly cooked fettuccine and garnish with fresh parsley for a luxurious meal that feels like dining out at a fine Italian restaurant.

Beef Stroganoff: Beef Stroganoff: Delight in the classic flavors of this hearty dish. Tender strips of beef are seared to perfection and then simmered in a savory sauce made with sour cream, mushrooms, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Serve over a bed of buttered egg noodles and sprinkle with fresh chives for a comforting and satisfying main course that brings a touch of Eastern European cuisine to your table.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes rich, velvety chocolate as you cut into it. This decadent dessert is perfect for those who crave an indulgent treat. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures. The warm, gooey chocolate combined with the cold, creamy ice cream creates a symphony of textures that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your guests with a lemon meringue pie that boasts a tangy lemon curd filling and a cloud-like meringue topping. The crisp, buttery pie crust provides the perfect base for the zesty lemon filling, while the meringue adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful, golden-brown finish. Serve this refreshing dessert chilled, and garnish with a few lemon zest curls for an extra burst of citrus flavor. It's a perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it an ideal end to any meal.

Why trust this Copycat Chili’s White Spinach Queso Recipe:

This recipe for white spinach queso is a must-try because it perfectly replicates the beloved Chili's dish. Using fresh baby spinach leaves and a blend of white American cheese and jack cheese, it delivers a creamy, rich flavor. The addition of pico de gallo salsa, queso fresco crumbles, and guacamole elevates the dish to restaurant-quality. Trust this recipe for its authentic taste and straightforward instructions.

Have you tried making this Copycat Chili's White Spinach Queso Recipe at home? Share your experience and discuss any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I keep the queso from getting too thick?

If the queso gets too thick, you can add a little more milk to thin it out. Just add it gradually and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While white American cheese and jack cheese give it that classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or even a bit of cheddar for a different twist.

How do I make pico de gallo salsa?

Pico de gallo is super easy to make. Just mix diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the ingredients to your taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the queso ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

What can I serve with this queso?

This queso is great with tortilla chips, but you can also serve it with veggies, pretzels, or even use it as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.