Imagine a warm, vibrant evening filled with the flavors of Mexico, where the aroma of melted cheese and spices fills the air. Today, we’re focusing on a classic Mexican appetizer that combines the richness of cheese, the savory taste of chorizo, and the crunch of fresh tortilla chips: . This dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine, often served at gatherings and celebrations. It’s a skillet of melted cheese, chorizo, and peppers, perfect for dipping with tortilla chips. The combination of gooey cheese, spicy chorizo, and the slight sweetness of peppers creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a blend of cheeses like Cheddar and Mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (optional)
• 1/2 pound Mexican chorizo, casings removed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the Chorizo: Add the chorizo to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Onions and Peppers: Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the chorizo mixture.
6. Melt the Cheese: Transfer the skillet to the oven (preheated to 375°F) and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with cilantro if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips.

Top Tips

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Choose a blend of cheeses for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chorizo: It should be cooked until just done to retain moisture.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
• Experiment with Peppers: Use different colored peppers for a pop of color.
• Serve Immediately: Queso Fundido is best served hot and bubbly.
• Customize with Toppings: Consider adding diced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Queso: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra kick.
• Veggie Queso: Replace chorizo with roasted vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Seafood Queso: Add cooked shrimp or crab for a seafood twist.
• Mushroom Queso: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy flavor.
• Breakfast Queso: Add scrambled eggs and cooked sausage for a breakfast version.

Nutritional Guide

Additional nutritional notes: Queso Fundido is a rich and satisfying appetizer, high in fat and protein due to the cheese and chorizo. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with lighter options like salads or grilled vegetables to balance the richness.