Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe
If you’ve never experienced the molten delight of a Queso Fundido Skillet, you’re in for an unforgettable treat. This irresistible dish brings together spicy chorizo, tender vegetables, and a blanket of gooey, bubbling cheese—all broiled to golden perfection in a single skillet. Fresh herbs, a hit of jalapeño, and the crunch of tortilla chips create a blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for sharing (or secretly savoring yourself). Gather your friends, because this is the kind of crowd-pleaser that disappears in minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Queso Fundido Skillet is all in its thoughtful simplicity. Each ingredient shines, creating a dish that’s both comforting and surprisingly bold. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Chorizo sausage: Bold, smoky, and spiced just right—chorizo forms the savory foundation of this skillet and infuses the cheese with incredible depth.
- Finely diced onion: The mild sweetness and crunch of onion balances the richness of the sausage and cheese, adding aromatic complexity.
- Jalapeño (optional): For those who love a little heat and added freshness, jalapeño invigorates every bite with a lively kick.
- Minced garlic: Just a clove, but totally transformative—garlic’s warm undertones make the whole skillet more irresistible.
- Shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese: Oaxaca melts divinely, creating a stretchy, ultra-creamy texture; mozzarella is a fantastic, mild substitute if you can’t find Oaxaca.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Its dreamy melt pairs perfectly with Oaxaca or mozzarella, and brings a gentle hint of sharpness.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: A shower of cilantro right before serving adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal lift.
- Lime wedges: Squeeze over the finished skillet for a bright, tangy finish that cuts through the richness.
- Warm tortillas or tortilla chips: The ultimate vehicles for scooping—choose soft tortillas for wrapping or crunchy chips for dipping.
How to Make Queso Fundido Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure everything bakes evenly and achieves that lovely, golden cheese crust. Use a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet for the best heat distribution, as this will help your Queso Fundido Skillet stay warm and gooey at the table. Gather all your ingredients before you begin—things move fast!
Step 2: Cook the Chorizo
Add your chorizo to the skillet set over medium heat. Break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula, letting the fat render as the sausage browns. After about 5 to 6 minutes, you’ll have sizzling, deeply flavorful bits that give the Queso Fundido Skillet its hearty base. If you prefer a less spicy version, you can swap in mild sausage or even a vegetarian alternative.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Jalapeño
Add the diced onion and jalapeño (if using) directly into the skillet with the chorizo. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent, soaking up all those savory flavors. The jalapeño elevates the Queso Fundido Skillet with just the right amount of spice, so adjust to your taste!
Step 4: Add Garlic for Aroma
Sprinkle in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds. This brief sauté gently blooms the garlic, infusing the skillet with irresistible fragrance. It’s a subtle addition, but one that deepens the flavor and adds another layer of comfort to the dish.
Step 5: Layer the Cheese
Off the heat, evenly sprinkle the Oaxaca (or mozzarella) and Monterey Jack cheeses over the chorizo mixture. It might seem like a lot, but as it melts, this blanket of silky, stretchy cheese forms the heart and soul of the Queso Fundido Skillet. Make sure the top is fully covered so you get gooey cheese in every scoop!
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling
Slide the whole skillet into your preheated oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling with tempting golden spots across the top. Watching it transform is half the fun, and your kitchen will smell unbelievable.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven (careful—it’ll be piping hot!), then sprinkle a generous amount of chopped cilantro on top for freshness and color. Set the skillet directly on the table with stacks of warm tortillas or crunchy chips and lime wedges. Your Queso Fundido Skillet is meant to be enjoyed immediately, so dig in while it’s melty!
How to Serve Queso Fundido Skillet
Garnishes
Top your bubbling Queso Fundido Skillet with a handful of chopped fresh cilantro. For even more zing, add extra jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce. A squeeze of fresh lime right before eating brightens the whole dish, tying together the bold and rich flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Queso Fundido Skillet pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, like a citrusy jicama slaw or crisp lettuce cups. If you want a true fiesta, whip up some guacamole and pico de gallo for the table. Refried beans or black beans on the side can help make this appetizer a more substantial meal, too.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Queso Fundido Skillet in the very pan it was baked in for maximum wow-factor. For a party, try spooning the cheesy mixture into mini cast-iron skillets or even hollowed bread bowls. You can also turn it into loaded nachos by pouring it over a mountain of chips, or roll it up in tortillas for unforgettable mini quesadillas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and that’s a big if!), let the Queso Fundido Skillet cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheese may solidify but don’t worry—it’ll come back to life when reheated.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooled Queso Fundido Skillet in a well-sealed container for up to one month. The texture may change slightly once thawed, but it still makes for a decadent, cheesy treat when you need it most!
Reheating
Reheat leftover Queso Fundido Skillet gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and melty, about 10 minutes. For a quick fix, you can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring often to ensure even heating. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick.
FAQs
Can I make Queso Fundido Skillet vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chorizo for sautéed mushrooms and add some black beans for a hearty, savory base that’s entirely meat-free. The richness of the cheese makes this vegetarian version just as satisfying.
What’s the difference between queso fundido and regular queso dip?
Queso Fundido Skillet is made with real, meltable cheeses and typically includes savory add-ins like chorizo, while many queso dips are made with processed cheeses and stay runnier. Fundido is thicker, stretchier, and baked until bubbling—it’s more indulgent and hearty!
Can I use different cheeses in my skillet?
Yes! While Oaxaca and Monterey Jack are classic, you can experiment with other great-melting cheeses like asadero, Muenster, or even fontina. Just steer clear of cheeses that don’t melt smoothly.
How spicy is this dish with jalapeño and chorizo?
The heat level can be adjusted to your taste. Use mild chorizo and skip the jalapeño for a gentler version, or add extra jalapeño if you love spice. Taste as you go, and remember the cheese mellows out the heat.
What’s the best way to keep Queso Fundido Skillet warm at a party?
Serve it in the cast-iron skillet set on a trivet, or keep it warm with a small, low heat source like a warming tray or slow cooker on low. Give it a quick stir now and then to keep the cheese soft and scoopable.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to fall in love with a piping hot Queso Fundido Skillet—this recipe is pure comfort, packed with flavor, and a total showstopper for any gathering. Don’t wait for a special occasion; treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy, cheesy delight soon. Every bite is a celebration!
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Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the gooey, cheesy goodness of this Queso Fundido Skillet, a flavorful blend of chorizo, melted cheeses, and aromatic spices. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a cozy night-in treat.
Ingredients
Chorizo Mixture:
- 8 ounces chorizo sausage, casings removed
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Cheese Blend:
- 8 ounces shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Additional:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Warm tortillas or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Chorizo: In a skillet, cook chorizo over medium heat until fully cooked. Add onion, jalapeño, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Add Cheeses: Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle Oaxaca or mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheeses over mixture.
- Bake: Transfer skillet to oven and bake until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with cilantro. Serve with tortillas or tortilla chips and lime wedges.
Notes
- You can substitute chorizo with spicy Italian sausage or make it vegetarian with mushrooms and black beans.
- Best served hot and fresh. Reheat gently if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 skillet
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 590 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
