Mexican
⭐ Highly Rated
25 minmedium
MexicanAppetizer
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsQueso Fundido, meaning "melted cheese," is a beloved Mexican appetizer that transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible communal dish. This version features a blend of melted Oaxaca-style cheese enriched with flavorful Mexican chorizo, peppers, and onions. The cheese becomes stretchy and golden while the chorizo adds a smoky, spicy depth. Traditionally served in a cast-iron skillet or earthenware dish to keep the cheese molten, this dish is meant to be scooped up with warm flour tortillas. The combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors makes it an instant crowd-pleaser at gatherings. While queso fundido is often enjoyed at Mexican restaurants, making it at home is surprisingly simple and allows you to customize the heat level and cheese blend to your preference. The key is using good-quality Mexican chorizo and serving it immediately while the cheese is still bubbling hot.
Instructions
step by step0/7 done
Remove the chorizo from its casing and crumble it into small pieces. Heat a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Add the crumbled chorizo to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until fully cooked and browned. The chorizo will release its oils and develop a crispy texture.
Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet with the chorizo. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Reduce heat to low. Evenly distribute the chorizo mixture across the bottom of the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top in an even layer.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and cook for 5-7 minutes, checking occasionally, until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling. Do not stir during this time.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately in the skillet with warm flour tortillas on the side for scooping.
Queso Fundido with Chorizo
4.1 (86)
A bubbling hot skillet of melted cheese mixed with spicy chorizo, served with warm tortillas for dipping. This classic Mexican appetizer is perfect for sharing and brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table.
easy
35 min
6 servings
Ingredients
0 of 8 checked
Main Ingredients
- 300 grams italian-sausage, casings removed, crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups cheese-mozzarella, shredded
- 1 cups cheese-cheddar, shredded
Vegetables
- 1 pieces onions, diced
- 1 pieces bell-peppers, diced
Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
For Serving
- 12 pieces tortillas, warmed
Chef Tips
expert advice•Chef Notes: For authentic Mexican flavor, substitute the cheese blend with Oaxaca cheese (also called quesillo) if available at your local Mexican market.
•You can make this vegetarian by omitting the chorizo and adding sautéed mushrooms and poblano peppers instead.
•If you prefer more heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
•The key to perfect queso fundido is serving it immediately while still hot and melted - the cheese will begin to firm up as it cools.
•You can keep it warm by placing the skillet on a trivet over a small candle or portable burner.
•For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder.
•If the cheese mixture seems too thick, you can stir in a tablespoon of milk or beer to thin it slightly.
•Leftover queso fundido can be reheated, though it won't have the same stretchy texture as when freshly made.
