Introduction
Have you ever dipped a chip into a bowl of hot, gooey cheese and thought, “Wow, this is amazing!”? If yes, then you’ll love Queso Fundido. This dish is all about melted cheese and delicious flavor. It’s a Mexican favorite that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or just when you’re craving something warm and cheesy.
“Queso Fundido” means “melted cheese” in Spanish. It’s usually made with melted cheese, spicy sausage (like chorizo), and sometimes peppers or onions. People eat it with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or even straight from the bowl with a spoon (we won’t judge!).
Today, we’ll show you how to make homemade Queso Fundido in a simple and easy way. You don’t need to be a fancy chef. All you need are a few ingredients, a skillet, and a big appetite!
Ingredients – Queso Fundido
Let’s gather everything you need to make Queso Fundido at home.
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (you can use more mozzarella if you don’t have this)
- 1/2 pound chorizo sausage (remove the casing if it has one)
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 small jalapeño or green chili, chopped (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any cooking oil
- Tortilla chips or warm tortillas, for serving
Step-by-Step Process – Queso Fundido
Step 1: Cook the Chorizo
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add the chorizo and cook it for about 5-7 minutes.
- Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, like you would with ground beef.
- Once the chorizo is browned and fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Leave some oil in the pan for extra flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Jalapeño (optional)
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and jalapeño.
- Cook them for 3-4 minutes or until they’re soft and slightly golden.
- If you’re not using onion or jalapeño, you can skip this step.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Spread the shredded mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheese evenly in the skillet.
- Stir gently to help the cheese melt evenly.
Step 4: Add the Chorizo
- Once the cheese starts to melt and bubble, sprinkle the cooked chorizo on top.
- You can stir it into the cheese or leave it on top for a nice look.
Step 5: Bake or Broil (Optional but Recommended)
- To make it extra gooey and bubbly, you can place the skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes.
- Or place it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Take it out carefully (use oven mitts—it’s hot!).
- Serve it right away with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.
That’s it! You’ve just made homemade Queso Fundido like a pro.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make Queso Fundido without meat?
Absolutely! Just skip the chorizo or replace it with cooked mushrooms, beans, or veggie sausage for a vegetarian version.
Q2: What kind of cheese melts best for Queso Fundido?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or Asadero cheese are great because they melt smoothly and taste amazing.
Q3: Can I reheat Queso Fundido?
Yes, but it’s best when fresh. If you reheat it, warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave and stir well to keep it smooth.
Q4: Is Queso Fundido the same as queso dip?
Not exactly. Queso dip is usually creamy and made with milk or cream. Queso Fundido is just melted cheese (and sometimes sausage), so it’s thicker and stringier.
Q5: Can I make it in the oven instead of on the stove?
Yes! Just cook your chorizo first, then mix it with the cheese in an oven-safe dish and bake at 400°F (200°C) until bubbly.
Final Thoughts
Queso Fundido is the kind of dish that brings people together. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something cheesy on a cold evening, this dish is always a hit.
The best part? It’s super easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a skillet, you can whip up something that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.
So next time you’re in the mood for something cheesy and comforting, give this homemade Queso Fundido recipe a try. You might just find yourself making it again and again. And don’t forget the chips—because every great cheese deserves a crispy partner!
