If you’re craving a dish that’s bubbling with cheesy goodness, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for sharing, the Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. This vibrant Mexican-inspired skillet brings together savory chorizo, layers of melty cheeses, and a touch of spice for a comforting appetizer or snack that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just indulging in a night where only ooey-gooey cheese will do, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s super easy to make and endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe means using simple, fresh ingredients that each play a special role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the spicy chorizo to the creamy cheese blends, these essentials come together seamlessly for a rich and irresistible dish.
- Chorizo (1/2 lb, bulk): The star protein with smoky, spicy notes that flavor the entire skillet beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Helps to sauté if your chorizo is very lean, adding smoothness.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and tender bite that balances chorizo’s intensity.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses a fragrant depth and aromatic zing for a well-rounded flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Provides that stretchy, gooey texture every cheese lover dreams of.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Brings a sharp, tangy note to cut through the richness.
- Mexican cheese blend (1/2 cup): Oaxaca, Asadero, or Monterey Jack add a creamy, melty regional authenticity.
- Fresh cilantro (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): Offers a fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish.
- Pickled or fresh jalapeños (1-2 tablespoons, optional): Kick in extra spice and tang to your liking.
- Tortilla chips or flour tortillas (for serving): Perfect for scooping up that irresistibly cheesy goodness.
How to Make Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chorizo
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat—cast iron works like a charm here. Add the chorizo and break it up with a spoon as it cooks, letting it brown and release those wonderful aromas for about 5 to 7 minutes. When it’s cooked through and beautifully browned, drain any excess grease so the dish doesn’t feel too oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Next, toss in your finely chopped onion. Cook it alongside the chorizo for 2-3 minutes or until it softens and starts to get a little translucent. This layer adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the spicy meat perfectly.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Minced garlic joins the party now, but keep it moving in the pan to avoid burning. Just 30 seconds is enough to release that fragrant garlic flavor without turning bitter. This tiny touch takes the whole flavor profile up a notch.
Step 4: Layer the Cheeses
Lower the heat to medium-low and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Mexican cheese blend evenly over the chorizo and onion mixture. This combination creates layers of melty texture and complementary flavors that really make the dish sing.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Cover your skillet with a lid to trap heat and allow the cheese to melt thoroughly. After about 3 to 4 minutes, you want to see a bubbling, gooey layer of cheese that invites dipping. This is the signature moment for the Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe—when all those ingredients come together beautifully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and pickled jalapeños if you like a bit of fresh herbal zing and extra heat. Then serve piping hot alongside tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas. Prepare for everyone to reach for seconds immediately!
How to Serve Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you add fresh pops of color and flavor. Bright cilantro leaves bring a refreshing contrast, and spicy pickled jalapeños add a tangy kick that perfectly complements the rich, melty cheese. Feel free to also add a squeeze of fresh lime for a citrusy lift.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bright tomato salsa. These lighter elements balance out the richness of the cheese and spice from the chorizo, making the entire meal well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe as a topping for grilled bread or stuffed into warm pita pockets. You can even present it as a festive dip during game day or a casual party—everyone loves scooping up cheesy goodness straight from the skillet!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover queso fundido can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness, but be prepared for the cheese to firm up as it cools.
Freezing
Although freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze only the cooked chorizo mixture without the melted cheese to preserve texture and flavor. You can thaw and reheat the meat base later, adding fresh shredded cheese for melting when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to evenly melt the cheese again. Avoid overheating to keep the cheese from breaking or getting rubbery—slow and steady wins here!
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage instead of chorizo?
Absolutely! While chorizo adds a distinct smoky and spicy flavor, you can substitute with spicy Italian sausage or even ground beef for a milder version. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift.
What cheeses work best in queso fundido?
Mexican cheese blends like Oaxaca or Asadero are ideal for their meltability and mild flavor. Pairing them with sharper cheeses like cheddar and stretchy mozzarella gives the perfect gooey texture and balanced taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the chorizo and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted poblano peppers, or seasoned beans for a hearty vegetarian queso fundido. Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder to mimic some smoky heat.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The heat depends on the chorizo and amount of jalapeños you use. If you prefer less spice, omit the jalapeños and pick milder chorizo. You can always add more spice with fresh or pickled jalapeños to taste.
Is this recipe suitable for a party or game day?
Definitely! The Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe is a fantastic shareable dish that’s quick to make and always a hit with crowds. Serve it with chips or tortillas, and you’ve got an effortless appetizer everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a skillet filled with sizzling chorizo and melted cheese, and the Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe captures that magic perfectly. It’s one of those recipes that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, bringing warmth and joy to your table every time. Trust me, once you try it, this cheesy masterpiece will become a favorite for gatherings or a cozy night in. So grab your skillet, get that cheese melting, and treat yourself to an unforgettable cheesy indulgence!
Print
Queso Fundido Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Queso Fundido Skillet is a gooey, cheesy Mexican appetizer featuring spicy chorizo and a melty blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Mexican cheeses. Cooked on the stovetop and served hot, this dish is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings or game day.
Ingredients
Chorizo and Aromatics
- 1/2 lb chorizo (bulk, not in casings)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for cooking)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Mexican cheese blend (such as Oaxaca, Asadero, or Monterey Jack)
Garnishes and Serving
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1–2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños or fresh jalapeños (optional, for extra spice)
- Tortilla chips or flour tortillas (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Chorizo: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess grease from the skillet to prevent greasiness in the final dish.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the chorizo and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, blending aromatics with the meat.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds more, stirring frequently to prevent burning and release the garlic’s aroma.
- Add the Cheese Blend: Lower the heat to medium-low to prevent burning. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Mexican cheese blend over the chorizo mixture, creating an even layer of cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes gooey, bubbly, and fully melted into a luscious topping over the chorizo.
- Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the queso fundido with fresh chopped cilantro and pickled or fresh jalapeños according to your spice preference.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas for dipping and scooping up the cheesy, savory mixture.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and the best melting texture.
- Removing excess grease from cooked chorizo yields a less oily dish.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity to control spiciness according to your taste.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the cheese at its melty peak.
- For a spicier variation, add diced green chilies or hot sauce before adding the cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop, but texture may change.
