This Queso Fundido is a classic Mexican appetizer made with sizzling chorizo, layers of melty Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, and creamy goat cheese, then finished with fresh tomatoes and jalapeños. Rich, gooey, and packed with bold flavor, it’s perfect for sharing with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Course: Appetizer, Snack
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
For the Queso Fundido
- 6 oz Mexican chorizo, divided
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 6 oz Oaxaca cheese, freshly grated
- 6 oz Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
- 3 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- ⅓ cup diced tomato
- 1 tablespoon minced jalapeño (optional)
Equipment Needed
- 8-inch cast-iron skillet (or oven-safe baking dish)
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place an 8-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Step 2 – Cook the Chorizo
Add the chorizo to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant and the chorizo is fully cooked.
Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Reserve ¼ cup of the cooked chorizo for topping.
Step 3 – Build the Layers
Spread the remaining chorizo evenly over the bottom of the skillet.
Layer in:
- Half of the Oaxaca cheese
- Half of the Monterey Jack cheese
- Half of the goat cheese
Repeat with the remaining cheeses.
Step 4 – Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Step 5 – Broil
Switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes until the top becomes lightly golden and blistered.
Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6 – Garnish & Serve
Top with:
- Reserved cooked chorizo
- Diced tomatoes
- Minced jalapeños (optional)
Serve immediately while hot and stretchy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Tortilla chips
- Warm flour tortillas
- Street taco tortillas
- Toasted baguette slices
- Soft pretzels
- Fresh salsa and guacamole
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in the oven or microwave until melted.
Freezing is not recommended because the cheese texture may become grainy.
Tips
- Freshly grate your cheese for the smoothest melt.
- Oaxaca cheese provides the signature stretchy texture.
- Don’t overbake or the cheese can become oily.
- Drain excess grease from the chorizo for a balanced dip.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and gooey.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute Oaxaca cheese?
Yes. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great alternatives for a similar stretchy texture.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the chorizo with sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or black beans.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes. Add extra fresh jalapeños, serrano peppers, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the skillet ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Loaded with spicy chorizo and layers of bubbling, melty cheese, this Queso Fundido is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating Taco Tuesday, or simply craving a warm, cheesy appetizer, this skillet dip is irresistibly rich, flavorful, and best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
