Queso Fundido Recipe

Introduction

Queso Fundido is a warm, gooey, and cheesy delight that is the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. Originating from Mexico, this dish features melted cheese combined with savory ingredients like chorizo, sautéed peppers, and onions, all served in a bubbling skillet for an irresistible, indulgent treat. The rich, creamy texture of the cheese paired with the savory toppings creates an unforgettable flavor experience that’s perfect for dipping with tortilla chips, soft tortillas, or even crusty bread.

Queso Fundido is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it at a festive gathering, as part of a casual dinner, or just because you’re craving something cheesy, this dish is sure to satisfy. The best part? It comes together quickly and easily, making it a perfect last-minute appetizer for a party or a simple yet delicious treat for yourself and your family.

This article will walk you through the steps of making the ultimate Queso Fundido, offer tips for perfecting the dish, and provide several fun variations you can try. From using different types of cheese to adding additional toppings, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love Queso Fundido

• Rich, Gooey Cheese: The highlight of Queso Fundido is the perfectly melted cheese that becomes irresistibly gooey and creamy. The cheese’s texture is rich and indulgent, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.
• Flavorful and Versatile: Queso Fundido can be customized with a variety of ingredients such as chorizo, roasted vegetables, or even shrimp. You can make it as simple or as elaborate as you like, depending on your preferences.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual meal, or just craving something cheesy, Queso Fundido is perfect for sharing. It’s a communal dish that’s great for gathering around and dipping with your favorite snacks.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great option when you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack with minimal effort.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a Mexican-themed dinner, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Queso Fundido fits the bill. It’s a versatile dish that can be served for almost any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 4-6g
• Protein: 12-14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Queso Fundido:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1/2 lb chorizo (Mexican or Spanish, casing removed and crumbled)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or a combination of Oaxaca cheese, Monterey Jack, and Cheddar)
• 1/4 cup of milk (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
• Tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or crusty bread (for serving)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 small jalapeño, diced (for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup of roasted poblano peppers, chopped (for additional smoky flavor)
• 1/2 cup of sautéed mushrooms (for a rich, earthy taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chorizo

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the crumbled chorizo to the pan. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes, or until the chorizo is browned and cooked through. The chorizo should release its flavorful oils during the cooking process.

Once the chorizo is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. Be sure to leave any leftover fat in the skillet, as this will add flavor to the vegetables.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet with the leftover fat from the chorizo, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and become slightly caramelized.

Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. If you like your queso with a little extra spice, you can also add a diced jalapeño at this stage for heat.

3. Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Once the vegetables are soft and fragrant, return the cooked chorizo to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Then, add the shredded Mexican blend cheese (or your preferred cheese combination) to the skillet, distributing it evenly over the chorizo and vegetable mixture.

If you want your queso to be extra creamy, you can add about 1/4 cup of milk at this stage. The milk will help melt the cheese and create a smoother, more velvety texture. Stir the mixture continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the queso becomes creamy and smooth.

4. Serve the Queso Fundido

Once the cheese has melted into a creamy, bubbling sauce, it’s time to serve the queso. Transfer the skillet to the table or a serving dish, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve immediately with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or crusty bread for dipping. The queso will be hot and gooey, so make sure you have plenty of napkins on hand as everyone digs in.

Tips for Perfect Queso Fundido

• Use a Combination of Cheeses: While Mexican blend cheese is a common choice, a combination of Oaxaca cheese (known for its meltiness), Monterey Jack, and Cheddar will create a more complex, flavorful queso.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker queso, skip the milk. If you like a creamier texture, add milk or even a splash of cream to achieve your desired consistency.
• Cook the Chorizo First: Cooking the chorizo before adding the vegetables ensures that it gets nice and crispy and releases all its flavor into the skillet.
• Add Roasted Vegetables for Extra Flavor: Roasted poblano peppers or sautéed mushrooms are great add-ins that enhance the depth of flavor in your queso.
• Don’t Overheat the Cheese: Keep the heat on low when melting the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy or separating. Stir continuously to help the cheese melt evenly and smoothly.
• Serve Immediately: Queso Fundido is best enjoyed while it’s hot and gooey. Serve it as soon as the cheese has melted to get the full experience.

Variations of Queso Fundido

• Queso Fundido with Shrimp: For a seafood twist, add cooked shrimp to the queso before serving. The delicate flavor of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the rich cheese.
• Vegetarian Queso Fundido: Skip the chorizo and opt for a variety of vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, roasted poblano peppers, or grilled zucchini. This creates a flavorful vegetarian version of the classic queso.
• Queso Fundido with Bacon: For added smokiness and crunch, crumble crispy bacon into the queso before serving. Bacon’s salty richness complements the creamy cheese perfectly.
• Spicy Queso Fundido: If you enjoy extra heat, add more jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to the queso. You can also mix in some chipotle peppers for a smoky kick.
• Queso Fundido with Sausage: Substitute the chorizo with your favorite sausage, such as Italian sausage or spicy sausage, for a different flavor profile. The sausage’s savory notes will pair wonderfully with the cheese.

Storage and Shelf Life

Queso Fundido is best enjoyed fresh and hot, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the queso gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a bit of milk or cream to restore its smooth texture.

While you can freeze Queso Fundido, keep in mind that the texture may change once it’s thawed and reheated. The cheese may separate or become a bit grainy, so it’s recommended to enjoy it fresh whenever possible.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Queso Fundido

• Tortilla Chips: The classic pairing for Queso Fundido, crispy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping into the creamy cheese. Opt for thick, sturdy chips to avoid breakage.
• Soft Tortillas: Warm flour tortillas or corn tortillas are great for scooping up the queso and creating a cheesy, delicious bite.
• Grilled Vegetables: Pair Queso Fundido with a side of grilled vegetables, such as corn, bell peppers, and onions, for a balanced meal.
• Mexican Rice: Serve Queso Fundido alongside a side of flavorful Mexican rice to complement the richness of the cheese.
• Guacamole and Salsa: For a well-rounded Mexican feast, serve Queso Fundido with fresh guacamole and salsa. The acidity from the salsa and the creaminess of the guacamole balance the richness of the queso.

Print

Conclusion

Queso Fundido is a cheesy, flavorful dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or just indulging in something cheesy for a snack, Queso Fundido is the perfect choice. With its rich and gooey cheese, savory chorizo, and customizable ingredients, this dish is both comforting and indulgent.

By following the steps and tips provided, you can make the best Queso Fundido every time, whether you stick to the traditional version or experiment with fun variations. So grab your favorite tortilla chips, warm

tortillas, or crusty bread, and enjoy this mouthwatering Mexican classic that will have everyone asking for more!