Queso? Yes-o, please!

My kiddos practically jump up and down with excitement anytime they sense that I'm about to make a batch of queso. And, with all its creamy, cheesy goodness, I can hardly blame them. So, when nachos (perfect with our chorizo or seasoned ground beef or turkey) are on the menu, this is my go-to. Made with just a few, simple ingredients (nothing funky that you can't pronounce here!), that comes together in a cinch, you'll be digging in before you know it!

Ingredients:

• 2 TBSP butter
• 2 TBSP all-purpose flour
• 2 c milk
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• few cranks of freshly ground black pepper 
• 1/2  tsp dried mustard
• 2 c Mexican-style shredded cheese (ideally freshly shredded from a block of cheese)
• around 1/3 c of your favorite salsa, add a little more, if desired
• optional: few slices of finely diced jalapenos, if more heat is desired

Directions:

1. In a small sauce pan, melt the butter over low-medium heat; add in the flour and whisk until smooth and bubbly (about 1-2 minutes).  Add in the milk gradually, whisking as you pour.  Bring to a gentle boil, continue to whisk, and add the salt, pepper, and dried mustard.
2. Remove the pan from the heat and add in the cheese, whisking until smooth. Then stir in the salsa. Add any additional salt needed, to taste.