Queso Flameado
Queso Flameado is a rich, cheesy Mexican dish featuring spicy sausage, tomatoes, and melted Monterey Jack, perfect for sharing as a flavorful appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chorizo in a small skillet; remove to paper towels with a slotted spoon.
- Drain all but 1 teaspoon of drippings from the skillet. Add chopped onion; cook until tender.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
- Add diced tomatoes and picante sauce; simmer for 15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated.
- In a 9-inch baking dish, arrange 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Top with the sausage mixture; cover with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with avocado slices and tomato slices.
- Serve immediately with warm tortillas or tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a hotter variety of picante sauce. If you prefer a leaner dish, substitute the chorizo with ground turkey or chicken sausage. You can also mix in black beans for added texture and flavor, making it a hearty option similar to other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Queso Flameado hot, garnished with avocado and tomato slices for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad or as part of a taco night, perhaps with some Turkey Taco Salad for a well-rounded feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the queso flameado in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to do so in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Queso Flameado contains roughly 154 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and vegetable mixture in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to store the components separately until ready to cook.
What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?
If Monterey Jack isn't available, you can use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar for a similar melt and flavor. Alternatively, for a sharper taste, try using Colby Jack or Pepper Jack cheese.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chorizo with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a flavorful vegetarian option. This will keep the dish hearty while making it suitable for non-meat eaters.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).