Queso Fundido
Creamy, spicy, and cheesy queso fundido combines chorizo, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and chili peppers for a flavorful dip perfect for sharing with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. chorizo sausage ⓘ
- 8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 4 oz. shredded Monterey Jack cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 c. dairy sour cream ⓘ
- 1 can (4-oz.) chopped green chili peppers, drained ⓘ
- 1 to 2 Tbsp. finely chopped canned chipotle chili peppers in adobo sauce ⓘ
- chopped green bell pepper
- chopped seeded tomato ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the chorizo sausage in a small skillet until no longer pink, then drain well on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cheeses, sour cream, drained green chili peppers, and chopped chipotle chili peppers.
- Stir in the cooked chorizo into the cheese mixture.
- Spread the mixture in a 1-quart baking dish.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, stirring once during baking.
- Top with chopped green bell pepper, chopped seeded tomato, and sliced ripe olives.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using pepper jack cheese for extra heat or adding some sautéed onions and garlic for depth of flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute low-fat sour cream or cream cheese. You can also try adding black beans to the mix for added texture, similar to what you might find in Hot Bean-Venison Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the queso fundido hot, accompanied by tortilla chips for dipping. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh guacamole and salsa for a complete appetizer spread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Turkey Quesadillas or as a topping for tacos. This dish is perfect for gatherings and game days.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover queso fundido can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F until bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Queso Fundido contains roughly 134 calories, with 7g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (200% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and 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 queso fundido ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply spread it in a baking dish and bake as directed. This makes it perfect for parties or gatherings where you want to save time.
What can I use instead of chorizo?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chorizo with sautéed mushrooms or black beans for a hearty alternative. Additionally, turkey sausage or other meat alternatives can also work well while keeping the dish flavorful.
Is queso fundido gluten-free?
Yes, queso fundido is naturally gluten-free as it primarily consists of cheese and other ingredients that do not contain gluten. However, always check the labels of any packaged ingredients, such as sour cream and chipotle peppers, to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
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).