Description: Indulge in the ultimate cheesy, spicy, and utterly irresistible Queso Fundido. This bubbling skillet of melted cheese, savory Mexican chorizo, and flavorful toppings is the perfect appetizer for any gathering or a satisfying meal for a cozy night in. Prepare to be transported to a world of cheesy bliss!
Ingredients:
- 8-9 oz. Mexican chorizo, removed from casing
- 1/2 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 serrano chile pepper, seeded and finely diced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups freshly grated Monterrey Jack or Oaxaca cheese (8 oz)
- 1 cup freshly grated mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese (4 oz.)
- 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (4 oz.)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz. can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained (such as Rotel)
Toppings:
- 2 Roma tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Preparation:
Before you even think about turning on the stove, let’s get everything organized. Mise en place, as the French say, is key to a smooth cooking experience. That means having all your ingredients measured, chopped, and ready to go. There’s nothing worse than scrambling for an ingredient while something is burning on the stove! The initial preparation is quick but essential for the perfect layering of flavor.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Ensuring the oven is hot before baking prevents it from drying the cheese and allows it to melt evenly and maintain its creamy texture.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the freshly grated Monterrey Jack/Oaxaca cheese, mozzarella/Oaxaca cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese. Toss the cheese mixture with the all-purpose flour. This step is crucial because the flour helps the cheese melt smoothly and evenly, preventing it from clumping or becoming greasy. The small amount of flour creates a light coating that stabilizes the cheese.
Step 3: Heat a large, oven-safe cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. The cast iron skillet is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and can withstand the oven’s high temperature. Add the Mexican chorizo to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for about 5 minutes, or until it is nicely browned and slightly crisp. Add the diced yellow onion and serrano pepper to the skillet with the chorizo. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the chorizo is fully cooked, the onion is softened and translucent, and the serrano pepper has released its aroma. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Drain off any excess fat from the skillet after cooking the chorizo mixture. This step is essential to prevent the Queso Fundido from becoming overly greasy. Remove the chorizo mixture from the skillet and set it aside in a separate bowl. Do not wipe out the skillet – the remaining flavorful bits in the skillet will add depth to the dish.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to the lowest setting under the skillet. Add the low-sodium chicken broth to the skillet. Using a whisk, slowly incorporate the cheese mixture a little bit at a time, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and smooth. The slow addition and constant stirring prevent the cheese from clumping and ensure a creamy consistency. Stir in the rinsed and drained pinto beans and the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles.
Step 6: Add the cooked chorizo mixture back into the skillet with the melted cheese, beans, and tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined. Ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
Step 7: Carefully transfer the cast iron skillet to the preheated oven. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is hot, bubbly, and slightly browned on top. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from becoming hardened. The goal is to achieve a melted, gooey, and slightly browned cheese topping.
Step 8: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with the chopped Roma tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Queso Fundido recipe is more than just a melted cheese dip; it’s an experience. The combination of the savory chorizo, the slight kick from the serrano pepper, and the creamy, melty cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The addition of beans and tomatoes adds texture and substance, making it a satisfying and complete appetizer or even a light meal. It’s incredibly versatile – you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and bubbly with a generous pile of warm tortilla chips.
- Offer a variety of toppings, such as pickled jalapeños, black olives, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce, to customize each serving.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas for a cheesy twist.
- Pair with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer for the ultimate fiesta experience.
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality cheese: The quality of the cheese will greatly impact the flavor and texture of the Queso Fundido. Opt for freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking: If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the serrano pepper or remove the seeds and membranes before dicing. For a spicier kick, add more serrano peppers or use a hotter variety, such as jalapeño or habanero.
- Don’t overbake: Overbaking can cause the cheese to become hardened and oily. Keep a close eye on the skillet in the oven and remove it as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Keep it warm: If you’re serving Queso Fundido at a party, use a chafing dish or a small slow cooker to keep it warm and melty throughout the evening.
- Customize the ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables to create your own unique Queso Fundido variation. Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian option.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the chorizo mixture and cheese mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine the mixtures in the skillet and bake as directed.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 800-1000 mg per serving
Conclusion:
Queso Fundido is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its blend of savory chorizo, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings, it’s the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving a cheesy indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. So grab your cast iron skillet, gather your ingredients, and prepare to dive into a world of cheesy, spicy bliss!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I make this recipe without chorizo?
A: Absolutely! If you’re vegetarian or simply prefer a different flavor profile, you can easily omit the chorizo. To maintain the savory element, consider using cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure a flavorful result.
Q2: Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of freshly grated?
A: While it’s possible to use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, I highly recommend using freshly grated cheese whenever possible. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose or other additives that can prevent it from melting as smoothly as freshly grated cheese, resulting in a less creamy and more grainy texture.
Q3: How do I prevent the Queso Fundido from becoming too oily?
A: The key to preventing oily Queso Fundido is to drain off any excess fat after cooking the chorizo. Additionally, using a flour to coat the cheese also will help absorb excess fat and allow for a smother melt. Choose cheeses that melt well and don’t release too much oil. Also, don’t overbake the dish; remove it from the oven as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Q4: Can I prepare this Queso Fundido ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chorizo mixture and cheese mixture separately ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the mixtures in the skillet and bake as directed. This is a great way to save time when hosting a party or preparing a meal in advance.
Q5: What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet? Can I use something else?
A: If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, you can use any oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Just make sure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients and can withstand the oven’s high temperature. A ceramic baking dish or a stainless-steel skillet would work well.
