Nothing beats the moment when melty cheese meets bold, savory flavors. That’s exactly what happens when making Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso Recipe—a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy dip that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether it’s for game night, a party, or just a comfort food fix, this recipe delivers that smooth, cheesy goodness with a touch of heat. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients, so every bite is packed with fresh, restaurant-quality flavor.
Quick & Easy Cooking Time
One of the best things about this Chili Con Queso recipe is how fast it comes together. No long prep times, no complicated steps—just cheesy goodness in minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
In just a quarter of an hour, you’ll have a restaurant-style queso ready to enjoy. Stay tuned for the step-by-step recipe that will make this your new favorite homemade dip!
Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso Ingredients
Creating your own Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso at home starts with gathering the right ingredients. Each component plays a key role in delivering that rich, creamy, and slightly spicy flavor you love.
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese (cubed) – Melts smoothly for a creamy texture.
- 1 cup canned chili (no beans) – Adds a meaty, savory depth.
- ½ cup diced tomatoes with green chilies – Bring a mild kick and fresh acidity.
- ¼ cup milk or heavy cream – Ensures a smooth, pourable consistency.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances savory flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a mild smokiness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances and enhances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Provides extra richness and silkiness.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll get that restaurant-quality queso without needing any special skills or hard-to-find items!
Ingredient Substitutes & Adjustments
Want to customize your queso? Here are some easy swaps and tweaks to match your taste preferences:
- Cheese Options: Swap Velveeta for Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses for a different texture.
- Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make It Milder: Use mild diced tomatoes without chilies or reduce the chili content.
- Thicker Consistency: Add more cheese or let the sauce simmer longer to thicken up.
- Thinner Consistency: Add extra milk or a splash of broth to loosen it up.
- Healthier Version: Use reduced-fat cheese and replace butter with Greek yogurt for creaminess.
These adjustments let you tailor the recipe to your personal preferences, whether you love bold spice or prefer a milder, creamier queso.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right kitchen tools to make the process smooth and easy:
- Saucepan or Skillet – For melting and combining ingredients evenly.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon – Helps prevent clumping and ensures a silky texture.
- Slow Cooker (Optional) – Keeps the queso warm for serving at parties.
- Serving Dish – Ideal for presentation and easy dipping.
Having these tools on hand will make your queso-making experience effortless, ensuring a smooth, creamy, and perfectly blended dip every time.
Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso Recipe – How to Make?
Making Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso at home is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to create a rich, cheesy dip that’s perfect for any occasion.
Step 1: Melt the Cheese
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter and add cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth consistency.
Step 2: Add Chili & Tomatoes
Once the cheese starts melting, stir in canned chili and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Keep stirring to combine all the flavors evenly.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency & Flavor
Pour in milk, followed by garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir thoroughly until the queso is completely smooth.
- Too thick? Add a little more milk to loosen it up.
- Too thin? Let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Once the queso reaches the perfect consistency, remove from heat and serve immediately! Pair it with tortilla chips, pretzels, or even fresh veggies for an irresistible snack.
Best Ways to Store Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso
If you’ve made extra queso (lucky you!), here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.
Refrigeration (Short-Term Storage)
- Transfer the queso to an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Stir well before reheating, as cheese may separate slightly.
Freezing (Long-Term Storage)
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tips:
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent clumping.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring in between for a smooth texture.
Best Ways to Serve Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso
This cheesy, flavorful dip is more than just a snack—it’s a game-changer for all kinds of dishes! Whether you’re hosting a party, making a quick snack, or looking to elevate your favorite meals, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Dip – Serve it with tortilla chips, pretzels, or pita chips for the ultimate appetizer.
- Nacho Topper – Drizzle it over tortilla chips and add jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole for loaded nachos.
- Burger or Sandwich Spread – Slather it onto burgers or grilled chicken sandwiches for a creamy, cheesy kick.
- Baked Potato Topping – Spoon over baked potatoes for an indulgent, savory twist.
- Mexican Dishes – Use it as a sauce for tacos, enchiladas, or burritos to enhance their bold flavors.
- Mac & Cheese Upgrade – Stir into macaroni and cheese for an extra level of gooey, cheesy goodness.
What Does Chili Con Queso Taste Like?
This iconic Buffalo Wild Wings dip is packed with bold flavors that keep you coming back for more. Here’s what makes it so irresistible:
- Rich & Cheesy – The Velveeta base melts into a smooth, creamy consistency that coats every bite.
- Savory & Slightly Spicy – The chili and green chilies add a mild heat that complements the cheese perfectly.
- Smoky & Bold – A touch of smoked paprika deepens the flavor profile, giving it that signature restaurant-quality taste.
Pro Tips for the Best Chili Con Queso
Want to make the best homemade Chili Con Queso? Follow these expert tips to ensure your dip turns out perfectly creamy and flavorful every time:
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chili, diced tomatoes, and high-quality cheese make a huge difference in taste.
- Low & Slow Melting – Heat the cheese gently to prevent it from becoming grainy or clumpy.
- Keep It Warm for Parties – Use a slow cooker on the “warm” setting to keep the queso smooth and dippable for hours.
- Customize the Spice Level – Adjust the heat by adding extra green chilies, jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper to match your preference.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Even though Chili Con Queso is an easy dish to make, a few simple mistakes can affect its texture and taste. Here’s what to avoid:
- Overheating the Cheese – High heat can cause the cheese to separate, making it grainy instead of smooth. Keep the heat low and stir frequently.
- Not Stirring Enough – Regular stirring helps prevent clumps and ensures a creamy consistency.
- Using the Wrong Cheese – Hard cheeses like cheddar don’t melt as smoothly as Velveeta. Stick with Velveeta or blend it with Monterey Jack for a better texture.
- Skipping Seasoning Adjustments – Always taste the queso before serving and adjust the salt, spice, or acidity to match your preference.
How to Make a Restaurant-Style Chili Con Queso?
Want to take your Chili Con Queso to the next level? Here are some pro tips to make it taste just like the one from Buffalo Wild Wings—or even better!
- Add a Splash of Beer – A little Mexican lager can enhance the depth of flavor and add a slight tang that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
- Incorporate Fresh Jalapeños – Instead of relying solely on canned green chilies, fresh jalapeños give a more vibrant heat and crisp bite.
- Blend for Extra Smoothness – If you want a silky, restaurant-quality queso, use an immersion blender to mix everything to perfection.
- Top with Fresh Cilantro & Scallions – Garnishing with fresh herbs adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby contrast to the rich cheese sauce.
Final Thoughts
Making Buffalo Wild Wings Chili Con Queso at home is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. You get all the cheesy, savory goodness without the extra cost, preservatives, or waiting for takeout. Plus, you can customize it exactly how you like—whether that means extra spice, a richer texture, or a completely new twist!
So why not give it a shot? Try this recipe, make it your own, and let us know how it turns out. Your perfect, homemade Chili Con Queso is just a few steps away!
