SnacksEasyGluten-Free

Corn Chips with Queso

Silky cheese dip spiked with mild green chiles and cumin. All the Tex-Mex flavor with garlic-infused oil instead of onions, so you can enjoy queso without the FODMAP triggers.

Corn Chips with Queso
Total Time
15m
Servings
6
Calories
245
Fiber
1g
Protein
10g
Carbs
18g
Fat
16g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
RecoveringRemissionStricturePost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

cheesemild

Some people with IBD react to dairy proteins (casein) even when lactose is absent

Tip: Start with a small portion. Aged cheeses are generally well-tolerated.

fat contentmoderate

16g fat per serving may worsen diarrhea during active flares

Tip: Save for remission. Keep portions small if uncertain.

Ingredients

    Queso

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Serving

  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Toss the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack with the cornstarch in a medium bowl until evenly coated.

    Equipment: medium bowl
  2. Heat the garlic-infused oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.

    Equipment: medium saucepan
  3. Add the green chiles and cumin, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  4. Pour in the lactose-free milk and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

  5. Reduce the heat to low.

    Tip: High heat causes cheese proteins to seize and separate into stringy clumps
  6. Add the cheese mixture one handful at a time, stirring constantly in a figure-eight motion until each addition melts completely before adding more. The dip should become smooth and glossy.

    Tip: Adding cheese gradually prevents clumping and ensures a smooth texture
  7. Stir in the salt and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.

  8. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately with corn tortilla chips.

    Equipment: serving bowl
    Tip: Queso is best while still warm and flowing

Notes

Storage

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Queso will thicken when cold. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in 1-2 tablespoons of lactose-free milk to restore the smooth consistency.

Why cornstarch matters

The cornstarch prevents the cheese proteins from clumping together when heated, creating that signature smooth, pourable texture. Without it, you'll get a grainy, separated sauce.

Keep the heat low

Once you add the cheese, resist the urge to crank the heat. High temperatures cause the proteins to seize and separate into stringy clumps. Low and slow wins here.

Dairy-free alternative

Swap the cheese for dairy-free shredded cheddar and use almond or oat milk instead of lactose-free milk. The texture won't be quite as creamy, but it's a workable option if dairy is off the table entirely.

Spice variation

If you tolerate heat well during remission, add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce. Start small and taste as you go.

Make it a meal

Spoon queso over baked potatoes, use as a topping for simple tacos, or drizzle over steamed vegetables for added richness.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches