Homemade Queso Fundido

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Homemade Queso Fundido for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chorizo adds a spicy, savory kick, while the gooey Monterey Jack cheese brings an indulgent creaminess that melts in your mouth. The fresh cilantro on top gives it a burst of brightness, and the optional addition of tequila or Mexican beer elevates the dish, adding depth to every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it solo, this recipe is a surefire way to make any occasion feel special.

Ingredients

1/2 pound chorizo, casings removed

1 small onion, diced

1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

1/4 cup tequila (or Mexican beer) (optional)

1 tomato, seeded and diced

1 clove garlic, chopped

1/2 pound Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sizzle with Flavor: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the chorizo, breaking it apart as it sizzles. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s richly browned and aromatic.

Aromatics Unite: Stir in the diced onion, jalapeno, and tomato, infusing the chorizo with layers of savory flavors. Cook this fragrant mix until tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Fragrant Essence: Add the chopped garlic to the pan, letting its aroma fill the air. Cook it until fragrant, which should take about a minute.

Spirited Addition (Optional): For an extra kick of flavor, pour in the optional tequila or Mexican beer. This step helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the dish. Let it cook for about 2 minutes until most of the moisture evaporates.

Melting Magic: Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the mixture, allowing it to melt and envelop the ingredients. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes creamy, usually in about 2-3 minutes.

Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted to perfection, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top. Transfer the queso fundido to a serving dish and serve immediately with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or your favorite dippers.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Serving Size: 4 servings

Variations

If you’re feeling creative or want to adjust the flavors, here are a few variations I like to try:

Add Veggies: I sometimes add bell peppers or mushrooms to the pan for an extra veggie boost.

Swap the Cheese: While Monterey Jack is perfect for its meltability, you can also use cheddar or Oaxaca cheese for a slightly different flavor.

Make it Spicy: For an extra fiery kick, I add extra jalapenos or even a pinch of chili flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I recommend serving this dish fresh, as the cheese is at its best when it’s hot and melted. However, if you need to store leftovers, let the queso fundido cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, I suggest gently warming it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to help restore the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Related Recipes:

• Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
• Corn Queso
• Homemade Queso Dip

FAQs

How can I make queso fundido without chorizo?

If I want a vegetarian version, I simply swap the chorizo for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some cooked beans for a hearty option. You can also add a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle for extra flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I find that queso fundido is best served immediately to maintain its meltiness, but you can prepare the chorizo and vegetable mix ahead of time, then add the cheese and heat it up when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While Monterey Jack is ideal for its meltability, you can substitute it with other melty cheeses like Oaxaca or even mozzarella for a more neutral flavor.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! To crank up the heat, I add extra jalapenos or include a spicy chili powder or cayenne pepper. You can even add a bit of hot sauce to taste for an extra layer of heat.

What should I serve with queso fundido?

I love serving queso fundido with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or even crunchy vegetables like carrot sticks and cucumber slices for a fresh contrast. It’s also perfect as a topping for tacos, nachos, or even grilled meats.

Conclusion

Homemade Queso Fundido is a delightful, indulgent dish that brings the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your table. With its rich combination of spicy chorizo, melted cheese, and fresh cilantro, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, allowing me to enjoy this cheesy goodness in no time. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen.