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Creamy Queso Fundido with Spicy Chorizo

creamy queso fundido with spicy chorizo - featured image

A warm, melty cheese dip with spicy chorizo cooked in a cast iron skillet, perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare in about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces Mexican-style chorizo, casings removed
  • 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella as a substitute)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Corn tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  3. In the same skillet with the chorizo fat, add the chopped onion, jalapeño (if using), and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring frequently.
  4. In a bowl, combine shredded Oaxaca cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix lightly until well integrated but still a bit chunky.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add the cheese mixture to the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Stir carefully to mix, then evenly spread the cooked chorizo on top.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and edges start to turn golden and crisp.
  7. Remove skillet carefully using oven mitts. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and freshly ground black pepper over the top. Serve immediately with warm corn tortilla chips.

Notes

Preheat the cast iron skillet before cooking to avoid sticking and develop a crispy crust. Avoid shredding cheese too far in advance for better melt. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Serve immediately for best crispy edges. Leftovers can be reheated gently but will lose some crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso fundido, spicy chorizo, cheese dip, cast iron skillet, Mexican appetizer, easy dip recipe, party food