Chile Con Queso

Contributed By: EatingWell
Recipe by: Eating Well, Picture by: Ken Burris

Our healthier version of chile con queso will have ooey-gooey-cheese lovers celebrating. Now you can enjoy this Tex-Mex dip without all the fat and calories. We replaced some of the cheese with a low-fat white sauce and used sharp Cheddar plus a splash of beer to boost the flavor. Our version cuts the calories in half and reduces total fat and saturated fat by nearly 60 percent.

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Total Preparation Time: 15 to 30 minutes
Ingredients: Bean & Legume
Actual Cooking Time: 15 to 30 minutes
Number of Servings: More than 10
Origin: Mexican & Spanish
Special Features: Quick to Prepare (under 30 minutes)
Make Ahead
Vegetarian
Nutrition Content: Good Source of Calcium
Meal Type: Lunch
Entree
Appetizers
Snack

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Ingredients

2 teaspoons Extra-virgin olive oil
1 Medium onion, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1/2 cup Pale ale or other light-colored beer
1 1/2 cups Low-fat milk, divided
3 tablespoons Cornstarch
1 3/4 cups Shredded sharp Cheddar, preferably orange
1 10-ounce Can diced tomatoes with green chiles (see Note), drained, or 1 1/4 cups drained petite-diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons Lime juice
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Chili powder
Cayenne pepper to taste (optional)
1/4 cup Sliced scallions
2 tablespoons Chopped fresh cilantro
Note: We like the flavor of Rotel brand diced tomatoes with green chiles the best in this dip. Choose original or mild, depending on your spice preference.

Preparation

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until soft and beginning to brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Add beer and cook until reduced slightly, about 1 minute. Add 1 cup milk and bring to a simmer.

Meanwhile, whisk the remaining 1/2 cup milk and cornstarch in a small bowl. Add to the pan and cook, stirring vigorously, until bubbling and thickened, 1 to 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add cheese and cook, stirring, until melted. Stir in drained tomatoes, lime juice, salt, chili powder and cayenne (if using). Serve warm, garnished with scallions and cilantro.

Cook's Notes

To Make Ahead: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Slowly reheat on the stove over medium heat or on Medium in the microwave. Nutrition facts are for 1/4 cup serving.