Queso Fundido with Chorizo

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 12 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Queso Fundido with Chorizo is an irresistible blend of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish brings the warmth of Mexican flavors to your table with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients for Queso Fundido with Chorizo

Olive oil adds a subtle richness, helping the chorizo to cook evenly without sticking. Chorizo, the star of the show, brings a spicy, smoky depth that defines the dish. Onion and garlic provide a savory base, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The jalapeño offers a gentle heat that complements the chorizo without overwhelming it. A dash of smoked paprika elevates the smokiness, tying all the flavors together. The combination of Oaxaca cheese and Monterey Jack cheese ensures a creamy, gooey texture that's hard to resist. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, making each bite vibrant and balanced.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapeño.
  • Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet for a one-pan approach.
  • For a smoother cheese melt, grate the cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines with freshly warmed corn or flour tortillas. For a lighter option, serve it with crunchy vegetable sticks like bell peppers or celery. You can also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos for a creative twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chorizo mixture ahead of time. When ready to serve, layer with cheese and bake.
What if I can't find Oaxaca cheese?
Substitute with mozzarella for a similar melt and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Queso Fundido with Chorizo Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's ready for the cheese to melt to perfection. While the oven is warming up, take a medium skillet and set it over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and slightly crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño. Stir them around with the chorizo, letting them soften and release their aroma. This step should take about 3 minutes, enough for the onion to look translucent. At this point, sprinkle in the smoked paprika and give everything a good stir for another minute to let the spices bloom.

Now, transfer the chorizo mixture to an oven-safe dish. It's time to layer the shredded Oaxaca and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top. Spread them evenly so every bite is cheesy goodness. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be bubbly and golden, a sign it's ready to enjoy.

When it’s done, carefully remove it from the oven and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve it right away with warm tortillas or crunchy tortilla chips, and watch it disappear.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it great for last-minute entertainment.
  • Packed with bold flavors from chorizo, jalapeño, and smoked paprika.
  • Rich and creamy cheese blend that melts perfectly.
  • Versatile serving options — enjoy with tortillas, chips, or even veggies.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
8 oz chorizo, casings removed and crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
8 oz Oaxaca cheese, shredded
4 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Warm tortillas or tortilla chips for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chorizo until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeño to the skillet, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the smoked paprika and cook for another minute. Remove from heat.
5. In an oven-safe dish, layer the cooked chorizo mixture, followed by the Oaxaca and Monterey Jack cheeses.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately with warm tortillas or tortilla chips.

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