This delicious queso fundido with chorizo combines creamy melted cheese with the rich, savory flavors of spicy chorizo sausage. Perfect as an appetizer or a dip for your favorite tortilla chips, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz chorizo, casing removed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips or warm tortillas for serving

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it starts to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Gradually add the milk to the cheese mixture, stirring constantly to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Stir in the chili powder and smoked paprika, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the queso fundido to a serving dish and serve immediately with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.

Nutritional Information 

• Calories: 300
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 3g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 20g

The History of Queso Fundido

Queso fundido, a beloved Mexican dish, has deep roots in the country’s culinary heritage. The name “queso fundido” translates to “melted cheese,” capturing the essence of the dish — a savory, gooey cheese experience often paired with various meats and spices. Though its precise origins are debated, it’s widely believed that queso fundido comes from northern Mexico, a region with a rich tradition of cheese-making. Over time, this dish evolved, gaining popularity in Mexican restaurants worldwide and becoming a staple at gatherings.

What Makes Queso Fundido So Popular?

The popularity of queso fundido has soared in recent years, especially as a shared appetizer. Its charm lies not only in the creamy melted cheese but also in the bold flavors that come from mixing it with savory chorizo. This dish provides a fun, interactive eating experience, with guests scooping up the cheese with tortilla chips or tortillas. Whether at a casual gathering or a festive event, queso fundido is a crowd-pleaser that promises to delight.

The Role of Chorizo in Queso Fundido

Chorizo, a spiced sausage, is a key ingredient in queso fundido. It brings a robust flavor, contributing depth and richness to the melted cheese. Chorizo’s spicy kick and fatty texture complement the cheese perfectly, making it the ideal addition to the dish. Though other meats can be used, chorizo remains the classic choice, offering the perfect balance of heat and savory goodness.

Different Types of Cheese for Queso Fundido

While Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese are popular choices for queso fundido, the type of cheese used can alter the dish’s texture and taste. Mexican cheeses such as Oaxaca, known for its stretchy texture, or queso blanco, which melts into a creamy consistency, are often favored for their smooth melting properties. The key to perfect queso fundido is selecting cheeses that melt well, ensuring a rich, creamy dip that combines seamlessly with the chorizo.

The Best Pairings with Queso Fundido

Queso fundido pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Tortilla chips and warm tortillas are the classic accompaniments, but fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy dip. For added flavor, toppings like chopped cilantro, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime can help balance the richness of the cheese, adding a zesty kick.

Why Queso Fundido is Perfect for Sharing

The communal nature of queso fundido makes it ideal for social occasions. Served in a large skillet or bowl, it encourages sharing among guests, fostering a sense of connection. The interactive element of dipping into the melted cheese creates a fun, engaging experience that brings people together over a delicious meal.

How to Customize Your Queso Fundido

Queso fundido can easily be customized to suit different tastes. While chorizo is the traditional meat, other options such as bacon, sausage, or grilled chicken can be substituted for a different flavor profile. Vegetarians can opt for a mushroom or roasted pepper filling, while adding heat through jalapeños or chipotle peppers can elevate the spice level. The versatility of queso fundido allows for endless experimentation with flavors and ingredients.

How to Make Queso Fundido Ahead of Time

Preparing queso fundido in advance can make hosting much easier. While the cheese is best enjoyed fresh, the chorizo and vegetables can be pre-cooked and stored separately. When ready to serve, simply combine the ingredients, melt the cheese, and heat everything through. This ensures that the dip is fresh and hot without requiring last-minute preparation.

The Importance of Using the Right Cooking Tools

The right tools are essential when making queso fundido. A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for cooking the chorizo and melting the cheese, as it ensures even heat distribution. Cast iron skillets are especially beneficial, as they retain heat and keep the cheese warm for longer periods. If you’re serving queso fundido directly from the skillet, make sure it’s oven-safe, allowing you to achieve the perfect melt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Queso Fundido

To achieve the perfect queso fundido, avoid overcooking the cheese, as it can become too stringy or tough. Also, be sure to use quality cheese that melts well—low-quality cheese can result in a less smooth, clumpy texture. By following these simple tips, you can ensure your queso fundido is rich, creamy, and delicious.

Serving Queso Fundido at a Party

Queso fundido makes an excellent addition to any party or gathering. Its interactive, shareable nature makes it perfect for both casual and festive occasions. Serve it with chips, tortillas, and a selection of other sides like salsa, guacamole, or tacos. This dip is a crowd-pleaser and will undoubtedly be a highlight of your event.

Pairing Drinks with Queso Fundido

Pairing the right drink with queso fundido can enhance the experience. A cold beer or a refreshing margarita complements the richness of the melted cheese and spicy chorizo. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water or an agua fresca with lime provides a zesty contrast that balances the dish’s richness.

Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Queso Fundido

While traditional queso fundido is indulgent, there are ways to make it healthier. Using reduced-fat cheeses or swapping the chorizo for leaner meats like turkey or chicken can lower the fat content. For a vegetarian option, try sautéing vegetables like mushrooms or using plant-based sausage. You can also serve it with fresh vegetables for dipping instead of chips to add a lighter, healthier touch.

Queso Fundido Variations Around the World

Though queso fundido is most closely associated with Mexico, variations of this dish can be found around the world. In Spain, for example, melted cheese is often served as a tapa, with manchego being a popular choice. In the United States, Tex-Mex restaurants have embraced queso fundido, often adding beef, pico de gallo, or guacamole for extra flavor. While the dish may vary in different regions, the central concept of melted cheese remains the same.

The Best Type of Chorizo to Use for Queso Fundido

The right type of chorizo is crucial for the success of queso fundido. Mexican chorizo, made from fresh pork and flavored with chili, garlic, and paprika, is the preferred choice due to its rich, fatty texture that adds depth to the cheese. Spanish chorizo, which is cured and dry, lacks the moisture and fat content needed for the dish, making it a less suitable choice for queso fundido.

Making Queso Fundido Vegetarian-Friendly

Queso fundido can easily be adapted for vegetarians. Instead of chorizo, sauté a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Adding beans such as black or pinto beans can provide heartiness, while spices like cumin and chili powder ensure the flavor remains bold and savory. These substitutions create a flavorful, satisfying dish that even non-meat eaters will enjoy.

Storing Leftover Queso Fundido

If you have leftover queso fundido, store it properly to maintain its freshness. Allow the queso to cool before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency. Although reheated queso may not be as smooth as when freshly made, it can still be enjoyed as a dip or topping.

Conclusion

Queso fundido with chorizo is a versatile, comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of melted cheese and spiced sausage. Its ability to be customized with different meats, cheeses, and seasonings ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether served at a casual gathering or a festive party, queso fundido continues to be a crowd favorite that’s perfect for sharing and savoring together. The warmth and richness of this dish make it an ideal choice for any occasion, and its versatility ensures that it can be enjoyed by people with varying tastes and dietary preferences.