Chili’s White Spinach Queso Copycat – Delish Diner

Few things in life are better than gathering around with friends and family, snacking on delicious bites while sharing stories. For me, nothing beats the fun of a cozy get-together complemented by the creamy goodness of queso. This white spinach queso, just like the one at Chili’s, sets the stage perfectly. 

Picture this: a vibrant bowl of cheesy goodness, loaded with spinach, surrounded by a plate of crispy tortilla chips. It’s the kind of appetizer that makes everyone feel welcome, and the conversations flow like the melted cheese.

What is Chili’s White Spinach Queso Copycat?

In simplest terms, Chili’s White Spinach Queso is a creamy, dreamy dip made primarily from cheeses, spinach, and a few secret spices. My copycat version captures that indulgent taste without needing to head out to that restaurant. 

It combines the richness of American cheese with the tangy essence of Monterey Jack, spinning it into a delightful blend that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s the kind of dip that has friends clamoring for more.

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The Ingredients

To create this irresistible dip, gather these ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness.
  
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the dip just right.
  
• 3/4 cup creamy whole milk – Brings creaminess to the mix.
  
• 8 ounces smooth white American cheese – The magic ingredient for meltiness.
  
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick) – Adds depth.
  
• 1 tablespoon light canola oil – For sautéing the spinach.
  
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves – The star feature, packed with nutrients.
  
• 1/2 teaspoon roasted garlic powder – Boosts that flavor profile.
  
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro – Adds zest and freshness.
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a subtle hint of smokiness.
  

Optional garnishes:

• Pico de gallo salsa – For a fresh contrast.
  
• Queso fresco crumbles – Adds tangy creaminess.
  
• Guacamole – For that luscious, creamy contrast.
  

How to Make Chili’s White Spinach Queso Copycat?

Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s get into the fun part: making the dip. This dish comes together easily; it’s all about layering flavors and textures.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, I always recommend gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Chop, measure, and lay them out. It makes cooking smooth and stress-free!

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach

• In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium heat.
  
• Add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the pan. Sauté until the spinach is wilted and vibrant green, about 2-3 minutes.
  
• Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside. Don’t skip this step—the sautéing intensifies the spinach flavor!
  

Step 3: Create the Base

• In the same saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
  
• Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly. This mix will base our queso and is called a roux. Cook for a minute to remove any raw flour taste. It should bubble nicely but not brown.
  

Step 4: Add Milk and Cheese

• Slowly whisk in 3/4 cup of creamy whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  
• Now, toss in the 8 ounces of white American cheese and 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted. Your patience will be rewarded with a velvety texture.
  

Step 5: Season and Finish

• Stir in 1/2 teaspoon roasted garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
  
• Finally, fold in the sautéed spinach. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
  

Step 6: Serve it Up

• Transfer your luscious queso into a warm serving bowl. You can garnish it with pico de gallo, queso fresco, and guacamole if desired.
  
• Serve immediately with tortilla chips or cut-up veggies.
  

Notes

Here are some handy tips for perfecting your queso:

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for good-quality cheese for the best melt and flavor.
  
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allow the spinach to cook until fully wilted to ensure flavor absorption.
  
• Adjust Thickness: To thicken your queso, add more cheese; for a thinner consistency, add a bit more milk.
  
• Serving Warm: This dip is best enjoyed warm. If it cools down, you can reheat it gently over low heat, stirring frequently.
  
• Personalize It: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preferences!
  

Storage Tips

Should you find yourself with leftovers (which is not likely!), here’s how to store them:

• In the Fridge: Place any leftover queso in an airtight container. It will last for 3-4 days.
  
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
  

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 220
  
• Protein: 10g
  
• Fat: 15g
  
• Carbohydrates: 15g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  

Please note that this may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

Let’s talk serving suggestions. Here are a few ways to enjoy this delightful dip:

1. Tortilla Chips: A classic choice! Crispy chips for scooping will always be a crowd pleaser.

2. Veggies: Fresh bell peppers, cucumbers, or celery sticks add crunch. It’s a guilt-free way to indulge in queso.

3. Quesadillas: Spread this queso onto tortillas filled with your favorite ingredients, grill it, and cut into wedges for a cheesy treat.

4. Baked Potatoes: Drizzle hot queso over baked potatoes. This combo makes for a delicious side dish.

5. Tacos: Add a generous scoop of queso to any taco for that creamy finish, bringing everything together beautifully.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Chili’s White Spinach Queso Copycat?

If you need variations in your recipe, consider these substitutes:

• White Cheddar: Swap white American for white cheddar for a sharper flavor.
  
• Cream Cheese: Add a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture. Just blend it in the melted cheese for smoothness.
  
• Greek Yogurt: For a healthier twist, replace some cheese with plain Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess without too many calories.
  
• Frozen Spinach: In a pinch, frozen spinach can be used. Make sure to thaw, squeeze out excess moisture, and chop before adding.
  
• Pepper Jack Cheese: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, use Pepper Jack instead of Monterey Jack for spicy goodness.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Chili’s White Spinach Queso Copycat is a delicious dip that makes every gathering a little brighter. With its cheesy richness and vibrant spinach, it’s hard not to fall in love with the flavors. Not only is it simple to make, but it also invites creativity. 

Whether you choose to stick strictly to the recipe or play around with your favorite ingredients, this dip will surely please both friends and family. So, gather your loved ones, have some chips ready, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite. Happy dipping!

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