Looking for an irresistible appetizer to kick off your next dinner party or game night? Chorizo Queso Fundido is a savory, cheesy delight that blends the smoky, spiced goodness of chorizo with gooey melted cheese. Scoop it up with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or crusty bread for a dip that’s as fun to eat as it is to make!
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) Mexican chorizo, casing removed
- 1 cup (250g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (250g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup (125g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or warm tortillas (for serving)
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe skillet (e.g., cast iron)
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Instructions
- Cook the Chorizo:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside, leaving a bit of the rendered fat in the pan. - Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the smoked paprika and cumin, cooking for another 30 seconds. - Layer the Cheese and Chorizo:
Reduce the heat to low. In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and cheddar cheeses. Spread half of the cheese mixture in the skillet, then layer with the cooked chorizo. Top with the remaining cheese. - Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. For a golden top, switch to the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality cheese that melts well for the best texture.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of beer or tequila while cooking the chorizo.
- Keep the queso warm by serving it in the skillet or transferring it to a small warming dish.
Chorizo Queso Fundido is the ultimate cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. Its bold flavors and gooey texture make it a standout at any gathering. Pair it with your favorite chips or tortillas and enjoy a dish that’s sure to have everyone coming back for more!
Chorizo Queso Fundido
Savor the rich, gooey, and flavorful Chorizo Queso Fundido, a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Loaded with melted cheese and spiced chorizo, it's a crowd-pleaser you can’t resist!
Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet (e.g., cast iron)
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225g Mexican chorizo, casing removed
- 1 cup 250g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup 250g shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup 125g shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño finely diced (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or warm tortillas for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chorizo:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside, leaving a bit of the rendered fat in the pan.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the smoked paprika and cumin, cooking for another 30 seconds.
- Layer the Cheese and Chorizo:
- Reduce the heat to low. In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and cheddar cheeses. Spread half of the cheese mixture in the skillet, then layer with the cooked chorizo. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. For a golden top, switch to the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.
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