Queso Fundido Chorizo: 15-Min Speedy Melt

Name: Queso Fundido Chorizo: 15-Min Speedy Melt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound Mexican chorizo; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice); 8 ounces Oaxaca cheese, shredded; 8 ounces Chihuahua cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt, to taste; Tortilla chips, for serving; Warm tortillas, for serving

by Manar Jota

September 13, 2025

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Queso Fundido Chorizo has a way of making any gathering feel instantly more festive. I remember the first time I made this for a party, the aroma of spicy chorizo and melting cheese filled my kitchen, and everyone gravitated towards the skillet. It’s more than just a dip; it’s an experience! The rich, gooey texture combined with the savory, spicy notes of the chorizo is simply irresistible. This homemade chorizo queso fundido is my go-to for game nights and holidays because it’s so incredibly satisfying and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Queso Fundido Chorizo

Incredible flavor explosion: Savory chorizo, creamy melted cheese, and a hint of spice make this the best chorizo queso dip.
Super speedy prep: You can whip up this easy chorizo queso recipe in just 15 minutes.
Budget-friendly deliciousness: Uses common ingredients that are easy on the wallet.
Family favorite: Even picky eaters will devour this cheesy goodness.
Versatile appetizer: Perfect for game days, parties, or just a weeknight treat.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: This authentic chorizo queso fundido always disappears fast.
It’s an easy chorizo queso recipe that tastes gourmet!

Ingredients for Queso Fundido Chorizo

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this amazing chorizo cheese dip. Here’s what you’ll need to create this authentic Mexican appetizer:

1 pound Mexican chorizo – This is the star, so use a good quality one for the best flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Just a touch to help sauté the aromatics.
1 small onion, finely chopped – About 1/2 cup, adds a nice sweetness and texture.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that savory depth.
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness.
1/4 teaspoon cumin – A warm, earthy spice that complements the chorizo.
1/4 teaspoon chili powder – For a gentle warmth.
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a lovely smoky undertone.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice) – If you love heat, add this for a real kick!
8 ounces Oaxaca cheese, shredded – This is a traditional melting cheese that gives it that signature gooey stretch.
8 ounces Chihuahua cheese, shredded – Another fantastic melting cheese that adds creaminess.
1/4 cup heavy cream – Helps create that luxuriously smooth and creamy texture for your chorizo and melted cheese dip.
Salt, to taste – To enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Queso Fundido Chorizo

Creating this amazing chorizo cheese dip is surprisingly simple, and the results are incredibly rewarding. You’ll have a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece ready to impress in no time!

Step 1: Start by cooking the Mexican chorizo in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. As it sizzles and browns, use your spoon to break it apart into smaller crumbles. Cook until it’s fully cooked through, usually about 7-10 minutes. Carefully drain off most of the rendered grease, leaving just about a tablespoon in the skillet – this fat adds amazing flavor to the chorizo queso fundido.
Step 2: Toss the finely chopped onion into the skillet with the cooked chorizo. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent. The sweet aroma will start to fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Now, add the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous!). Stir everything together and cook for just 1 minute more until those spices become wonderfully fragrant.
Step 4: It’s time for the magic to happen! Add the shredded Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheeses to the skillet. Stir gently, allowing the heat to start melting the cheeses. You’re building the foundation for your delicious chorizo and melted cheese dip.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and continue stirring. Keep mixing until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and luxuriously creamy. This is the point where your chorizo queso fundido transforms into a truly irresistible dip.
Step 6: Taste your creation and season with salt as needed. Remember, chorizo can be salty, so taste before adding too much.
Step 7: For that classic bubbly, golden top, place the skillet under a preheated broiler. Broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a very close eye on it to prevent burning. You want it lightly golden and bubbling, not charred.
Step 8: Serve your spectacular chorizo queso fundido immediately while it’s hot and gooey, accompanied by plenty of tortilla chips and warm tortillas for scooping this amazing chorizo and melted cheese dip.

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Pro Tips for the Best Queso Fundido Chorizo

Elevating your chorizo cheese dip from good to absolutely unforgettable is easy with these little tricks. Follow these tips for a truly amazing appetizer.

Use good quality Mexican chorizo. The flavor of the sausage is the backbone of this dish, so don’t skimp!
Don’t overcook the chorizo. You want it browned and crumbly, but not dry.
Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often have anti-caking agents that can make your dip less smooth.
Watch the broiler carefully! It only takes a minute or two for the cheese to get perfectly bubbly and golden.

What’s the secret to perfect Queso Fundido Chorizo?

The secret to a truly perfect authentic chorizo queso fundido lies in the cheese blend and the proper melting technique. Using Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheeses provides that signature stretchy, smooth texture. Also, don’t skip the heavy cream; it ensures a creamy, luxurious consistency. For more delicious recipes, check out our recipes page.

Can I make Queso Fundido Chorizo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chorizo and onion mixture ahead of time. Cook the chorizo and onions, then let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture, then add the cheeses and cream, and proceed with the recipe.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Queso Fundido Chorizo?

A common pitfall is using cheese that doesn’t melt well, leading to a greasy or separated dip. Also, be careful not to burn the chorizo or the cheese under the broiler. Always drain most of the chorizo grease before adding other ingredients for a cleaner flavor. For more tips on cooking, you can refer to this guide on cooking chorizo.

Best Ways to Serve Queso Fundido Chorizo

Once your bubbling skillet of chorizo queso fundido is ready, the real fun begins: serving it up! The absolute classic pairing is with crispy, salty tortilla chips. I love using a variety of textures, from thick, sturdy ones perfect for scooping to lighter, crispier ones. This chorizo cheese dip is also divine served with warm, soft corn tortillas – perfect for making mini quesadillas. For a more complete appetizer experience, consider adding some pico de gallo or a dollop of sour cream on top to balance the richness and spice. It’s truly the best way to enjoy this vibrant Mexican chorizo appetizer.

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Nutrition Facts for Queso Fundido Chorizo

This delicious chorizo cheese dip is a treat, and understanding its nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy it mindfully. Here are the estimated values per serving in this easy chorizo queso recipe:

Calories: 350
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your homemade chorizo queso fundido.

How to Store and Reheat Queso Fundido Chorizo

Leftover chorizo queso fundido is a rare but happy occurrence! To store it properly, let your chorizo and melted cheese dip cool down completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This prevents condensation, which can make it watery. You can keep this delicious chorizo cheese dip in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option; wrap the cooled dip tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it should keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. This makes having a quick appetizer on hand super easy!

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored chorizo queso fundido again, the best reheating method is on the stovetop. Gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. You might need to add a splash of milk or cream to help it regain its creamy consistency, especially if it seems a bit stiff. If you prefer, you can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. Either way, your chorizo cheese dip will be as delightful as when it was freshly made! For other great appetizer ideas, consider our coconut chicken meatballs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Queso Fundido Chorizo

What is Queso Fundido Chorizo?

Queso Fundido Chorizo is a warm, bubbling Mexican appetizer made with melted cheese and crumbled chorizo sausage. It’s essentially a rich, savory cheese dip that’s incredibly satisfying. The combination of melty cheese and spicy chorizo creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for dipping.

Can I use a different type of cheese for my Queso Fundido Chorizo?

Absolutely! While Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheeses are traditional for their excellent melting properties, you can certainly experiment. Monterey Jack, Muenster, or even a good quality sharp cheddar can work. Just ensure they are good melting cheeses to achieve that gooey texture for your chorizo cheese dip.

How spicy is this chorizo cheese dip?

The spice level of your chorizo cheese dip largely depends on the chorizo you use and whether you add cayenne pepper. Mexican chorizo typically has a good amount of spice. If you prefer it milder, look for a less spicy chorizo or omit the optional cayenne pepper. If you love heat, feel free to add a bit more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes! For more information on spice levels, you can check out this guide to pepper heat.

What’s the best way to serve Queso Fundido Chorizo?

The best way to serve this chorizo queso fundido is piping hot, straight from the oven or skillet. Offer plenty of sturdy tortilla chips for dipping, or serve alongside warm corn tortillas for a more authentic experience. It’s also fantastic with fresh vegetable sticks like bell peppers or jicama.

Variations of Queso Fundido Chorizo You Can Try

While this classic chorizo cheese dip is fantastic on its own, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Trying a queso fundido with spicy sausage is a great starting point.

Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, omit the chorizo and sauté some finely diced mushrooms or plant-based chorizo crumbles in olive oil with the onions and garlic. You’ll still get a delicious, cheesy dip!
Spicier Kick: If you love heat, amp up the spice by adding an extra pinch of cayenne pepper, a diced jalapeño (seeds and all) along with the onions, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Enhance the smoky notes by adding a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a finely chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce when you add the other spices. This gives your chorizo queso fundido an extra layer of complex flavor.
Lighter Option: While not traditional, you can try using a reduced-fat cheese blend and a bit less heavy cream, or even substitute half-and-half for a slightly lighter take on this Mexican chorizo appetizer. For another light option, try our Chinese-style mango chicken stir-fry.