This Chorizo Queso Fundido is a rich, cheesy, and flavorful dip made with perfectly melted cheese and spicy, savory chorizo. Served bubbling hot, it’s the ultimate party appetizer, perfect for scooping with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Cheesy – A gooey, melty cheese dip that’s ultra-indulgent.
- Spicy & Flavorful – Mexican chorizo adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Perfect for Sharing – Great for parties, game nights, or Taco Tuesday.
- Easy to Make – Ready in just 20 minutes with a few simple ingredients.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a dip, taco filling, or over nachos.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Queso Fundido:
- Mexican chorizo (casing removed)
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella, shredded)
- Cheddar cheese (optional, for extra depth)
- Jalapeño (diced, optional for heat)
- Olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
For Serving:
- Warm flour or corn tortillas
- Tortilla chips
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Chorizo
- Heat a Skillet – In a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Chorizo – Add chorizo and cook, breaking it apart, until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Sauté Onion & Garlic – Stir in onion, garlic, and jalapeño (if using) and cook for 2 more minutes.
Step 2: Melt the Cheese
- Preheat Oven – Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Add Cheese to the Skillet – Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, and cheddar cheese evenly over the chorizo.
- Bake Until Melted – Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and fully melted.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with Cilantro – Sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve Hot – Scoop onto warm tortillas or dip with chips.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Extra Spicy – Add diced serrano peppers or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Loaded Fundido – Mix in sautéed mushrooms or roasted poblano peppers.
- Beer Queso Fundido – Stir in ¼ cup of beer for extra depth of flavor.
- Tex-Mex Style – Top with pico de gallo or crumbled queso fresco.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cheese may become grainy.
FAQs
What’s the best cheese for queso fundido?
Oaxaca and Monterey Jack melt smoothly, but mozzarella or cheddar work well too.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chorizo in advance and assemble just before baking.
What’s the difference between queso fundido and queso dip?
Queso fundido is thicker and made with real cheese, while queso dip is often made with Velveeta or a creamy base.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook chorizo first, then add everything to a slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours.
What’s the best way to keep queso fundido from hardening?
Serve in a warmed skillet and eat immediately.
Can I use Spanish chorizo instead of Mexican chorizo?
No, Mexican chorizo is soft and crumbly, while Spanish chorizo is firm and cured.
What can I serve with queso fundido?
Warm tortillas, chips, or veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers make great additions.
How do I make a milder version?
Use mild chorizo and skip the jalapeños.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of the oven?
Yes! Melt the cheese over low heat, stirring until fully combined.
Conclusion
This Chorizo Queso Fundido is a cheesy, spicy, and utterly delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether scooped onto warm tortillas or enjoyed as a dip, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality queso at home!
Print
Chorizo Queso Fundido
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: Stovetop & Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Queso Fundido is a hot, melty cheese dip loaded with spicy chorizo and gooey, stringy cheese, served bubbling straight from the oven. It’s bold, smoky, and irresistibly delicious, perfect for dipping with warm tortillas or crispy chips!
Ingredients
For the Queso Fundido:
- 1/2 lb Mexican chorizo, casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for spice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 cups shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese (for that stretchy pull!)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar (for extra flavor)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- Sliced jalapeños (for extra heat!)
For Serving:
- Warm flour or corn tortillas
- Tortilla chips
- Salsa or guacamole
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chorizo
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat.
- Add chorizo and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and crispy (5 minutes).
- Stir in onion and jalapeño, cooking until soft (2-3 minutes).
- Add garlic and cumin, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Melt the Cheese
- Turn off the heat and spread the cooked chorizo evenly in the skillet.
- Sprinkle shredded cheeses on top, covering the chorizo.
Step 3: Bake Until Bubbly
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Step 4: Serve Immediately!
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños.
- Serve hot and melty with warm tortillas or tortilla chips.
- Enjoy by scooping the queso into tortillas or dipping chips straight in!
Notes
✔ Want it spicier? Add extra jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
✔ More flavor? Mix in smoked paprika or a splash of beer for depth.
✔ No chorizo? Use crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or black beans.
✔ Make it ahead? Assemble everything, refrigerate, then bake just before serving.