Chorizo Queso Fundido: A Sizzling, Cheesy Delight for the Bold and the Brave

When it comes to bold, flavorful appetizers that are sure to impress, few dishes hit the mark like Chorizo Queso Fundido. This sizzling Mexican favorite combines rich, melted cheese with the spicy, savory goodness of chorizo, all served bubbling hot and ready for dipping. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a treat, Chorizo Queso Fundido is a dish that will elevate any experience. It’s a dish that encourages sharing, pairing perfectly with tortilla chips, fresh tortillas, or even crisp vegetables for dipping.

But what makes this dish truly irresistible is the balance between the savory chorizo, the creaminess of the melted cheese, and the subtle heat from the spices. Served straight from the skillet, it offers an interactive, crowd-pleasing experience that will have your guests returning for more.

Why You’ll Love Chorizo Queso Fundido

• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: The melting cheeses form the heart and soul of this dish, offering an indulgent, gooey, cheesy experience.

• Savory and Spicy: The chorizo adds the perfect amount of spice and depth, complementing the richness of the cheese.

• Interactive & Fun: Perfect for sharing, this dish allows guests to dip at their leisure, creating a communal experience.

• Customizable: You can adjust the heat level, add extra toppings, or even make it vegetarian by swapping out the chorizo.

Ingredients for Chorizo Queso Fundido

• 1/2 lb Mexican chorizo (or any preferred type of chorizo)

• 8 oz Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella as an alternative)

• 8 oz Chihuahua cheese (or a mild, melty cheese like Monterey Jack)

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed to cook the chorizo)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

• Tortilla chips, fresh tortillas, or sliced vegetables for dipping

How to Make Chorizo Queso Fundido

Step 1: Cook the Chorizo

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned and cooked through. As chorizo can vary in fat content, you might need to add a tablespoon of olive oil if the sausage is too lean.

2. Once browned, remove the chorizo from the skillet and set it aside. Drain any excess fat if necessary, leaving just a little for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, add a little oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Melt the Cheese

1. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.

2. Gradually add the shredded Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a little more cream to loosen it up.

3. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Chorizo and Cheese

1. Stir the cooked chorizo back into the skillet, ensuring it’s well distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

2. Allow the mixture to cook together on low heat for 2–3 minutes so all the flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

1. Transfer the melted cheese and chorizo mixture to a hot serving dish or a cast-iron skillet, where it will continue to sizzle and bubble as it’s served.

2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a touch of color and freshness.

3. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or sliced vegetables for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• Tortilla Chips: The crispy crunch of tortilla chips perfectly complements the gooey, melted cheese and spicy chorizo.

• Warm Flour Tortillas: For a more substantial dipping option, serve with soft, warm tortillas that can be used to scoop up the cheesy mixture.

• Vegetables: Fresh vegetables such as cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or celery provide a refreshing and crunchy alternative to chips.

• Toppings: For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping your fundido with pickled jalapeños, roasted peppers, or a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese.

Make It Your Own

• Spicy: If you love heat, increase the chili powder or add chopped fresh jalapeños to amp up the spice level.

• Add Roasted Veggies: Roasted peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini can be mixed in for a smoky, veggie-packed twist.

• Cheese Variation: Swap Oaxaca for a mix of cheddar and pepper jack for a sharper, spicier flavor.

• Make it Veggie: For a vegetarian version, replace the chorizo with black beans, roasted mushrooms, or even a smoky chipotle-flavored vegan sausage.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for enjoying later, but you may need to reheat it with a bit more cream to restore the creamy texture.

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of cream to prevent it from drying out.

• Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the texture of the cheese may not hold up well after being frozen and thawed.

Final Thoughts

Chorizo Queso Fundido is the ultimate indulgence for those who crave bold, savory, and cheesy flavors. Whether served as a starter at a dinner party, the centerpiece of a game-day spread, or a decadent treat for yourself, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. The combination of spicy chorizo, melty cheese, and customizable toppings makes it a standout choice for any occasion. So, gather your favorite dipping partners, grab a skillet, and dive into this bubbling, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to become your new favorite appetizer!