There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a melty cheese dip to bring people together, and this Queso Fundido will do just that. Picture this: it’s game day, and the scent of roasted peppers and spicy chorizo wafts through your kitchen. As the cheese bubbles and stretches, the anticipation builds with every scoop. Made with rich Oaxaca cheese and a touch of heat, this creamy dip is perfect for kicking your gatherings up a notch.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this gluten-free, low-carb delight is a feast for the senses. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that is both indulgent and easy to make. So gather your favorite tortilla chips, and let’s get ready to dive into the joy of Queso Fundido!
Why is Queso Fundido irresistible?
Indulgence: This Queso Fundido is a cheesy dream come true, perfect for sharing.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Oaxaca cheese and spicy chorizo creates a mouthwatering experience.
Quick and Easy: With only a few simple steps, you can serve up this dip in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s ideal for parties or cozy nights, making it a sure hit with friends and family.
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb: Enjoy this delectable treat without any guilt, accommodating various dietary needs.
Queso Fundido Ingredients
For the Dip
• Poblano Pepper – Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor; swap for jalapeño for a spicier kick.
• White Onion – Brings sweetness and balance; yellow onion can be a good alternative.
• Serrano Pepper (optional) – Offers a bit of extra heat; omit for a milder version.
• Oaxaca Cheese – This melting cheese provides the classic, stretchy texture; mozzarella can be used if necessary.
• Queso Quesadilla or Monterey Jack Cheese – Adds creaminess; regular cheese works in a pinch.
• Mexican Chorizo – Delivers that savory, spicy flavor; swap with Italian sausage for a different taste.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; feel free to use sea salt instead.
For Serving
• Corn Tortillas – The perfect accompaniment for dipping; feel free to use tortilla chips or vegetable sticks if preferred.
This delightful Queso Fundido is not just a treat; it’s an experience waiting to happen!
How to Make Queso Fundido
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Preheat Oven: Begin by arranging the oven rack in the top third and preheating it to 400ºF. This will ensure your Queso Fundido gets that beautifully melted and bubbly finish.
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Prep Vegetables: While the oven is heating, thinly slice the poblano and onion. If you’re feeling adventurous, chop the serrano pepper for an extra kick, depending on your heat preference.
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Shred Cheese: Grab that Oaxaca cheese and shred or grate it, mixing it with the queso quesadilla or Monterey Jack cheese in a bowl. This combination is the secret to that stretchy, gooey texture!
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Cook Chorizo: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the chorizo until it’s nice and crispy—this should take about 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chorizo from the pan and set it aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: After removing excess fat, add the poblano, onion, and serrano (if using) to the skillet. Sauté these veggies until they soften and become nicely charred, which will take around 6 to 10 minutes.
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Combine & Bake: Return the crispy chorizo to the skillet, pouring in the cheesy mixture. Give it a gentle stir and then place the skillet in the oven, baking until the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 8 to 10 minutes.
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Serve: The moment you pull out that Queso Fundido from the oven, serve it warm with those corn tortillas! Enjoy the delightful experience of dipping into the melty goodness with family and friends.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Queso Fundido delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the poblano and onion, as well as shred the cheeses, up to 24 hours in advance; store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can pre-cook the chorizo and sauté the vegetables, keeping them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your cheesy dip, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the skillet, bake until bubbling (8-10 minutes), and serve with warm tortillas. This approach not only saves time but ensures your Queso Fundido is just as delicious when it’s time to gather and dip!
Queso Fundido Variations
Dive into the world of customization with your Queso Fundido! There are so many delightful twists you can add to elevate this creamy dream.
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Mild & Creamy: Replace Oaxaca cheese with cream cheese for a milder, super creamy dip that’s luscious and smooth.
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Spicy Kick: Swap in jalapeños for the poblano for a vibrant, extra spicy flavor blast that’ll awaken your taste buds!
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Meat-Free Delight: Use sautéed mushrooms or black beans instead of chorizo for a vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh cilantro or chives before baking for a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the dish wonderfully.
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Enhanced Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded pepper jack cheese into the mixture for an exciting, spicy, cheesy twist that everyone will love.
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Tomato Boost: Stir in diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and delicious sweetness to balance the creamy cheese.
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Savory Alternative: Swap chorizo with crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor that adds crunch and richness to your dip.
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Nutty Surprise: Incorporate some toasted pine nuts for a surprising texture and nutty flavor that complements the creamy cheese beautifully.
Explore these variations and make this Queso Fundido your own!
Expert Tips for Queso Fundido
• Perfectly Crispy Chorizo: Always cook the chorizo until very crispy; this not only enhances texture but adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy cheese.
• Cheese Choices: If you’re using Oaxaca cheese, be mindful that it may become firm when reheated. Mixing in some cream cheese can help maintain a creamy consistency.
• Vegetable Prep: Avoid overcooking the vegetables. Saute them until just charred and softened to retain their flavor and texture in the Queso Fundido.
• Heat Levels: Adjust the heat to your liking. If you’re a heat enthusiast, feel free to increase the amount of poblano or serrano peppers for a spicier dip!
• Serving Warm: For the best experience, serve your Queso Fundido immediately after baking, ensuring everyone enjoys the gooey, melty goodness.
• Dipping Options: While corn tortillas are traditional, feel free to offer an array of options like tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping, adding a fun twist!
How to Store and Freeze Queso Fundido
Fridge: Store leftover Queso Fundido in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy your delicious dip later.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Queso Fundido in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a 350ºF oven until warmed through and bubbly. This will help maintain its creamy texture, keeping your queso irresistible!
Room Temperature: If serving at a party, keep Queso Fundido out for no longer than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure it stays safe and delicious.
What to Serve with Queso Fundido?
A warm, cheesy dip like this stunner deserves the perfect entourage to elevate your gathering experience!
- Corn Tortillas: These warm, soft tortillas are perfect for scooping up the melty goodness of queso, adding a delightful texture.
- Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Salty and crispy, tortilla chips offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dip.
- Fresh Guacamole: A cool, smooth guacamole enhances the warmth of Queso Fundido while adding a burst of freshness to each bite.
- Chilled Salsa: The vibrant, zesty flavors of salsa complement the rich dip beautifully, making it a refreshing option on the side.
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy and savory, Spanish rice provides a hearty base, making your snack feel like a full meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, seasoned veggies add an earthy balance to the richness of the quesito, perfect for health-conscious guests.
- Beer or Margaritas: Choose a light, crisp beer or a tangy margarita for a festive touch, beautifully pairing with the cheese’s indulgence.
- Fresh Herbs: Top with cilantro or green onions to add an aromatic kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile while bringing in a fresh burst.
Queso Fundido Recipe FAQs
What type of peppers should I use for Queso Fundido?
Absolutely! A poblano pepper is ideal for adding a mild heat and depth of flavor to your Queso Fundido. If you prefer it spicier, you can easily swap it out for jalapeño. The optional serrano pepper adds an extra kick if you want to turn up the heat even more!
How should I store leftovers of Queso Fundido?
You can store leftover Queso Fundido in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a 350ºF oven until hot and bubbling.
Can Queso Fundido be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Queso Fundido! Pour it into a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place it in a 350ºF oven until warmed through and creamy again.
How can I troubleshoot if my Queso Fundido isn’t as creamy as I’d like?
If your Queso Fundido isn’t as creamy, here’s a step-by-step fix:
- Return it to a skillet over low heat.
- Add a splash of milk or some cream cheese to the mix.
- Stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly.
- Be patient, as low heat will help it come back together without separating.
Is Queso Fundido safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Great question! Since this Queso Fundido is made without gluten-containing ingredients and can be tailored for low-carb eating by serving it with vegetable sticks instead of tortillas, it fits well within many dietary needs. However, always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if you have guests with specific allergies or dietary preferences.
Can I adjust the spice level of Queso Fundido?
Definitely! If you’re after a milder version, simply omit the serrano pepper and use less poblano. On the other hand, if you want to spice it up, add more serrano or even some crushed red pepper flakes. The more, the merrier when it comes to flavor!
Irresistible Queso Fundido: Your New Favorite Cheesy Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Begin by arranging the oven rack in the top third and preheating it to 400ºF.
- Prep Vegetables: Thinly slice the poblano and onion. Chop the serrano pepper if you want extra heat.
- Shred Cheese: Shred Oaxaca cheese and mix it with the queso quesadilla or Monterey Jack cheese in a bowl.
- Cook Chorizo: Brown the chorizo in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 7 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add poblano, onion, and serrano (if using) to the skillet and sauté until soft and charred, about 6 to 10 minutes.
- Combine & Bake: Return chorizo to skillet, mix in cheese, and bake until melted and bubbly, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Serve: Serve warm with corn tortillas and enjoy dipping into the melty goodness!