The rich, bubbling blend of melted Oaxaca and Monterey Jack cheeses in this Queso Fundido creates a stretchy, irresistible dip that’s made even better by spicy chorizo and zesty jalapeños. It’s the kind of dish that immediately steals the show at any gathering, served hot straight from the oven in a cast iron skillet. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta, prepping for game day, or just craving something ultra-comforting, this queso delivers big on flavor and fun. It’s best scooped with warm tortillas or crisp chips, and guaranteed to keep everyone dipping for more. Be warned there won’t be leftovers.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 ounces Mexican chorizo (casing removed)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
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1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
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8 ounces Oaxaca cheese, shredded
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8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
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Warm flour or corn tortillas, for serving
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Tortilla chips, optional
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. If the chorizo renders too much fat, drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
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Add the chopped onion and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh cilantro and set aside.
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In a cast iron skillet or oven-safe dish, layer the shredded cheeses. Spoon the chorizo mixture evenly over the cheese.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and fully melted.
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Remove from the oven and serve immediately with warm tortillas or tortilla chips.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Irresistible Allure of Queso Fundido: A Mexican Classic
If there’s one dish that instantly sparks joy and culinary anticipation, it’s Queso Fundido. Translating to “melted cheese” in Spanish, this comforting Mexican dip is everything its name promises warm, gooey, flavorful, and rich. Typically served as an appetizer, Queso Fundido combines the luxurious textures of melting cheese with the savory punch of seasoned chorizo, creating a dish that’s both rustic and indulgent.
Whether you’ve enjoyed it at a lively taquería or are trying it for the first time at home, Queso Fundido always delivers a memorable experience. It’s the perfect centerpiece for gatherings, celebrations, or simply an excuse to treat yourself and your guests to something truly satisfying.
A Cultural Staple With Deep Roots
Queso Fundido is more than just a delicious snack it’s a traditional Mexican dish with roots that trace back generations. It is especially popular in the northern regions of Mexico, where cheeses like Oaxaca and Chihuahua are frequently used in home cooking.
In Mexico, it is commonly served in molcajetes (stone mortars) or small cast iron pans and placed in the center of the table to be shared. Though it’s categorized as an appetizer, Queso Fundido’s richness and bold flavors give it a starring role at the table. It reflects Mexican cuisine’s broader themes community, flavor, and comfort.
The dish also has a strong presence in Tex-Mex cuisine, particularly in border states like Texas and Arizona, where it’s often served with tortillas, chips, or bread for scooping. Over time, Queso Fundido has evolved and adapted, integrating regional ingredients and cooking styles.
What Makes Queso Fundido So Unique?
Unlike the smooth and pourable “nacho cheese” dip commonly found in American fast-food chains, Queso Fundido has a thicker, stretchy texture more like a fondue than a sauce. It’s meant to be scooped rather than poured. This texture comes from the use of authentic Mexican cheeses like Oaxaca, Asadero, or Chihuahua, which melt beautifully but still maintain their structure.
Pair that with spicy, smoky chorizo, aromatic sautéed onions, garlic, and sometimes jalapeños, and you have a multi-layered flavor profile that hits every craving savory, spicy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.
Another signature trait of Queso Fundido is the oven or broiler finish, which creates a bubbly, golden-brown top and ensures the cheese reaches its maximum melty potential. Served piping hot and often sizzling, it’s a dish that appeals to all senses.
Best Ways to Serve Queso Fundido
While Queso Fundido shines on its own, how you serve it can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas:
1. With Warm Tortillas
Fresh corn or flour tortillas are the most traditional accompaniment. Spoon the melted cheese and chorizo mixture into a tortilla, fold it, and enjoy it taco-style.
2. Tortilla Chips or Tostadas
For a more casual or communal setting, sturdy tortilla chips are great for dipping. Choose thick-cut chips to support the weight of the dip.
3. Over Roasted Vegetables or Potatoes
Turn this appetizer into a heartier dish by pouring it over roasted potatoes, poblano peppers, or sautéed mushrooms.
4. As a Topping for Grilled Meats
Queso Fundido also works as a cheesy topper for grilled steak, chicken, or even burgers.
5. Breakfast-Style with Eggs
Leftover Queso Fundido? Heat it up and spoon it over scrambled or fried eggs for a spicy, cheesy breakfast dish.
Tips for the Perfect Queso Fundido
Want to take your Queso Fundido to the next level? Here are some pro tips:
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Use the right cheese: Authentic Mexican cheeses like Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or Asadero provide that signature stretch and flavor. If unavailable, Monterey Jack or mozzarella are good substitutes.
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Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and more evenly.
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Balance the heat: If you’re serving guests who are spice-sensitive, you can tone down the heat by using mild chorizo and omitting jalapeños or offer them on the side.
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Serve it immediately: Queso Fundido is best hot and fresh. The cheese starts to firm as it cools, so serve it straight from the oven in the dish you cooked it in.
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Use a cast iron skillet: It retains heat well and offers a rustic presentation that’s visually appealing and practical.
Delicious Variations to Explore
While traditional Queso Fundido with chorizo is a classic, there’s plenty of room for customization:
1. Vegetarian Queso Fundido
Replace the chorizo with sautéed mushrooms, poblano peppers, or spinach for a meat-free version that’s still hearty and flavorful.
2. Queso Fundido with Rajas
“Rajas” refers to strips of roasted poblano peppers. This adds a smoky flavor and mild heat, creating a more vegetal, earthy version.
3. Queso Fundido with Beer
Add a splash of light Mexican beer (like Modelo or Pacifico) before baking to deepen the flavor and loosen the texture just slightly.
4. Seafood Queso Fundido
In coastal regions, it’s not uncommon to see versions with shrimp or crab a luxurious twist that’s perfect for special occasions.
5. Sweet and Spicy Version
Add caramelized onions and a touch of honey or agave to balance the heat of the chorizo and jalapeño with a subtle sweetness.
Nutritional Considerations
Queso Fundido is undeniably indulgent. With its high fat and protein content, it’s rich and filling a little goes a long way. It’s best enjoyed in moderation or as a shared appetizer.
That said, you can make it a bit lighter by using lower-fat cheeses, reducing the chorizo amount, or swapping it for leaner proteins like turkey chorizo. If you’re going plant-based, skip the meat and cheese altogether in favor of vegan versions.
Why Queso Fundido Belongs on Your Table
There’s something universally appealing about molten cheese it speaks to comfort, flavor, and togetherness. Queso Fundido embodies all those elements and more. It’s deeply satisfying, endlessly customizable, and versatile enough to fit any occasion from casual hangouts to festive dinner parties.
Unlike many dips that feel like afterthoughts, this one commands attention. It’s a conversation starter, a showstopper, and most importantly, a culinary crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion:
Queso Fundido is the kind of dish that transforms any meal into a celebration. Its balance of melty cheese, spicy chorizo, and bold flavor makes it a timeless classic that deserves a spot in your appetizer rotation.
Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or returning to a beloved favorite, making Queso Fundido at home is a rewarding and simple way to bring a little Mexican flair to your table. With just a few quality ingredients and a short cook time, you’ll have a dip that’s guaranteed to disappear before your eyes.
So heat up that skillet, grab your favorite tortilla chips, and dip into this ooey-gooey masterpiece. You won’t regret it.