Queso Fundido with Chorizo and Tortilla Chips

Queso Fundido with Chorizo and Tortilla Chips is a classic Mexican appetizer that translates to “melted cheese.” It’s a bubbling, gooey dish made with a blend of melted cheeses, spicy chorizo, and a touch of peppers or onions for depth, served hot with crispy tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas. This dish is the ultimate comfort food — warm, rich, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying.

Originating from northern Mexico, Queso Fundido is often enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations. Unlike the smooth, pourable queso dips common in Tex-Mex cuisine, this traditional version is thicker, heartier, and baked until the cheese becomes stretchy and golden on top. When you dip a tortilla chip or a piece of tortilla into the hot, molten cheese, it’s pure bliss.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s indulgent, comforting, and an instant crowd-pleaser. The combination of spicy, smoky chorizo with creamy, melted cheese creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s simple to make yet feels like something special every time it hits the table.

What makes it even better is its versatility — you can enjoy it as an appetizer, a party snack, or even as a fun, shareable dinner with tortillas. Every time I make it, the rich aroma of sizzling chorizo and melting cheese fills the kitchen, creating that irresistible anticipation of comfort and flavor.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Queso Fundido with Chorizo is a must-try dish because it embodies everything people love about Mexican comfort food — bold flavors, creamy textures, and a communal spirit. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends or family, especially at parties or game nights.

The chorizo adds spice and richness, the cheese brings creamy indulgence, and together they create a dish that’s both rustic and luxurious. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple at Mexican restaurants and home gatherings alike.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 370 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Course: Appetizer / Snack

Ingredients

For the Queso Fundido:

• 8 oz (225 g) Mexican chorizo (remove casing if needed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed for frying)
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 2 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella as a substitute)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Warm tortilla chips or small flour/corn tortillas
• Lime wedges (optional)
• Salsa or pico de gallo (optional)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook chorizo and vegetables until browned.
2. Layer cooked chorizo and cheese in an oven-safe dish.
3. Bake until melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately with tortilla chips.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a small cast-iron skillet or oven-safe dish on the counter for assembly.

Step 2: Cook the Chorizo
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks (about 6–8 minutes). If the chorizo releases too much fat, drain the excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.

Step 3: Add Aromatics
Stir in chopped onion and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese and Chorizo
In your oven-safe skillet or baking dish, layer half of the shredded cheeses. Spread the cooked chorizo mixture evenly over the cheese, then top with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Queso Fundido
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Queso Fundido hot, directly from the skillet while it’s still bubbling. Use tortilla chips to scoop up the gooey cheese and bits of chorizo, or spoon it into warm tortillas for cheesy tacos. It pairs beautifully with salsa, guacamole, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.

This dish is best served family-style — everyone gathered around the skillet, dipping and sharing. It’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or as an appetizer before a Mexican feast.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture — pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t overbake — the cheese should be melted and gooey, not hardened.
• Cook chorizo properly — make sure it’s fully browned and cooked through before mixing with cheese.
• Serve immediately — queso fundido thickens as it cools, so enjoy it hot and fresh.
• Add flavor layers — a splash of tequila or roasted poblano peppers can elevate the taste.

Variations for This Recipe

1. Vegetarian Queso Fundido: Replace chorizo with sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions.
2. Chorizo and Poblano Version: Add roasted poblano pepper strips for a smoky twist.
3. Beer Queso Fundido: Mix in ¼ cup of Mexican beer before baking for a rich, malty depth.
4. Tex-Mex Queso Fundido: Add cooked ground beef, refried beans, or corn for a heartier version.
5. Queso Fundido Dip Style: Add ½ cup of heavy cream or milk before baking for a smoother, pourable dip.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until melted again, or microwave in 20-second bursts. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen if needed.
• Freezing: Queso Fundido is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as the cheese texture can become grainy upon reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

• Oven-safe cast-iron skillet or small baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese from a block)
• Oven mitts for handling hot cookware

Conclusion

Queso Fundido with Chorizo and Tortilla Chips is the ultimate indulgent appetizer — rich, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of melted cheeses and spicy chorizo creates a deeply satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something cozy and comforting, this recipe delivers every time.

It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Serve it bubbling hot with tortilla chips or warm tortillas, and watch it disappear in minutes — because there’s truly nothing like the irresistible pull of melted cheese and spicy chorizo together.