Queso Fundido with Chorizo is a rich, savory Mexican appetizer perfect for sharing. This dish features melted cheeses like Queso Asadero and Monterey Jack, combined with flavorful Mexican chorizo and a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Baked to gooey perfection, it’s served with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for dipping. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this indulgent dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Queso Fundido with Chorizo
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon salted butter
1/2 onion, finely diced
1 jalapeño, finely diced
8 oz Mexican chorizo (ground)
2 cups queso Asadero or Oaxaca, grated
2 cups Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Garnishes:
Fresh cilantro
Tomatoes
Tortilla chips or tortillas
Instructions:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Warm a cast iron skillet over medium heat, then add the butter and allow it to melt and start sizzling.
Step 2:
Add the finely diced onions and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently until they begin to soften.
Stir in the diced jalapeño and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 3:
Stir in the ground chorizo, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
You may increase the heat to medium-high if necessary.
Cook until the chorizo is fully done, about 6-7 minutes.
Drain the grease from the chorizo by placing it on a paper-towel-lined plate.
Step 4:
Once drained, return the chorizo to the skillet (reserving a little for garnish).
Begin adding the grated cheeses, stirring gently as they start to melt.
Step 5:
Prepare a water bath by filling a roasting pan or baking dish halfway with hot water.
Place the skillet inside the water bath and transfer the whole setup to the oven.
Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 6:
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro and the reserved chorizo.
Serve immediately with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.
Notes:
Cheese Options: Queso Asadero and Oaxaca cheese are traditional choices for this dish, offering a smooth, stretchy texture. Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, but you can use Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder flavor.
Chorizo Substitutes: If you can’t find Mexican chorizo, any spicy sausage will work. However, be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain excess fat to avoid a greasy dip.
Cooking Method: Baking the cheese in a water bath helps it melt evenly and prevents it from burning. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any oven-safe dish will work.
Serving Tip: Serve immediately after baking for the best gooey texture. The cheese can harden as it cools, so keep it warm or reheat as needed.
Toppings: Fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes add a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the cheese and chorizo. You can also add sliced avocado or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.