rajas con queso recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best rajas con queso recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes: rajas con queso. This traditional Mexican dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason. The combination of roasted poblano peppers, onions, garlic, and melted cheese is absolute perfection.

It’s a recipe that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The story behind rajas con queso is that it originated in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. The name ‘rajas’ means ‘strips’ or ‘shreds’ in Spanish, which refers to the way the peppers are typically sliced before cooking.

And ‘queso’ simply means cheese, which is a key component of this delicious dish. One of the things I love most about rajas con queso is the way it makes our home smell. The aroma of roasting peppers and melting cheese is unmistakable and always gets everyone’s stomach growling with anticipation.

And when we serve it up with some crusty bread or tortillas, it’s like a little taste of heaven right here on earth. But what really sets rajas con queso apart is the technique involved in making it. It’s all about layering flavors and textures, starting with the charred peppers and onions that provide a deep, rich flavor.

Then you add in the creamy cheese, which melts perfectly and binds everything together. It’s a true masterclass in cooking, if you ask me. And let’s not forget about the health benefits of this recipe!

With all those roasted vegetables and healthy fats from the cheese, you can feel good about what you’re putting into your body. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins A and C from all those bell peppers.

Rajas con Queso

4.7 from 1353 votes

Rajas con queso is a classic Mexican dish featuring strips of roasted poblano peppers simmered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The smoky flavor of the peppers pairs beautifully with the richness of melted cheese, creating a comforting and versatile dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rajas

4 large poblano peppers
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium white onion, sliced into thin strips
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella, shredded
4 ounces queso fresco or Monterey Jack, crumbled
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Roast the poblano peppers directly over a gas flame or under a broiler, turning occasionally with tongs, until the skin is charred and blistered on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2Place the charred peppers in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes to loosen the skin.
3After steaming, peel off the blackened skin from the peppers using your fingers or a paper towel.
4Remove the stems and seeds, then slice the peppers into thin strips about 1/2 inch wide.
5Set the rajas aside.
6Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
7Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until softened and lightly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
8Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
9Then add the poblano strips, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream.
11Stir gently and let the mixture simmer until the cream thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes.
12The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
13Add the shredded Oaxaca cheese and crumbled queso fresco, stirring continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
14Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Gas stove or broiler
Large skillet
Tongs
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 14g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-fat cheese. Adjust the heat by adding a sliced jalapeno along with the poblano peppers. Rajas con queso can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Watch Video Of How Rajas con Queso Works

Rajas con queso is one of those recipes that never fails to impress – whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion gathering with friends and family.

It’s easy to make ahead and refrigerate until serving time too!

Just be sure to store any leftovers safely by freezing them at 0°F (-18°C) or below within 2 hours.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rajas con Queso

Q: What type of cheese should I use for rajas con queso?

In traditional Mexican cuisine, rajas con queso is typically made with a blend of cheeses including Oaxaca cheese (a type of stringy mozzarella), Asadero cheese (a mild white cheese), and Chihuahua cheese (a mild white cheese). However, you can also use other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Cheddar if you can’t find these specific cheeses.

Q: Can I make rajas con queso without roasting the peppers?

While roasting the peppers adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with sautéing or grilling, you can still make a delicious rajas con queso without them. Simply substitute in some sautéed onions and garlic instead.

Q: How do I store leftover rajas con queso?

Store leftover rajas con queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I reheat rajas con queso in the microwave?

No! Reheating rajas con queso in the microwave can result in a soggy mess. Instead try reheating it gently on your stovetop or oven until warmed through.

Q: What other ingredients can I add to my rajas con queso?

In addition to the classic ingredients listed above you can also add some diced cooked chicken or steak for added protein.

Q: Is rajas con queso gluten-free?

This recipe contains gluten only if using bread crumbs or pasta as an accompaniment but generally speaking this dish is safe for individuals following a gluten-free diet.

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