Picture a sizzling hot skillet brimming with oohey, gooey cheese infused with chorizo’s rich, smoky flavors and a sprinkle of vibrant cilantro.
This is Queso Flameado, or as the cool kids call it, Queso Fundido, the ultimate dish to turn any party into a full-blown fiesta.
It’s a different kind of cheese dip. It’s not your typical chips and queso served in many Mexican restaurants. It’s melty and gooey but not creamy like typical queso. It’s more like the cheese on a quesadilla.
It’s not just about the melt; it’s a celebration of bold flavors that scream fun and fabulous, making it the ideal shareable dip for your next Super Bowl or Cinco De Mayo party!
In South Texas, the Queso Fundido recipe is a popular appetizer served in a hot cast iron skillet with flour tortillas at many Mexican restaurants, including La Fogata in San Antonio, Texas.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that’s all about cheese.
- Party Pleaser: It’s a crowd magnet at any event, from casual get-togethers to more festive celebrations.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Chorizo: Use fresh Mexican chorizo for authenticity, but you can also opt for beef or pork chorizo. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try mushrooms or soy chorizo.
- Cheese: I used Chihuahua cheese, queso asadero, or Oaxaca cheese are also traditional, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or other white cheese also works wonders for that perfect melt. Many restaurants in South Texas use melted Monterrey Jack or a combination of Mexican cheeses.
- Cilantro: For those who aren’t fans, you can substitute with parsley or omit.
- Chilies (Optional): For some spicy heat, try adding your favorite peppers, such as Japaleno peppers, poblano chiles, or green chiles.
How To Make Queso Flameado
- Cook chorizo until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Break it into crumbles and drain excess fat
- Transfer the chorizo to a casserole dish. Reserve 1/4 cup for garnish.
- Cover the chorizo evenly with shredded cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for 1-2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the queso flameado with cilantro (or your substitute) and extra chorizo. Serve immediately.
Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Top Recipe Tips
- Quality Counts: Use high-quality ingredients, especially the chorizo and cheese for the best flavor.
- Even Distribution: Make sure the chorizo and cheese are evenly spread for uniform flavor in every bite.
- Immediate Service: The magic of queso fundido is in its gooeyness, so don’t let it sit too long before serving.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chorizo with roasted veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, serrano peppers, or poblano peppers
for some extra flavor and heat. - Extra Cheesy: Blend different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
What To Serve with Queso Flameado
- Tortillas: Warm, soft tortillas for scooping.
- Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips for a different texture.
- Guacamole & Salsa: For those who love a bit of freshness with their cheese.
- Vegetables: Sliced red onion, chopped tomatoes, maybe some Pico de Gallo!
FAQs
It is best served fresh, but you can prep the chorizo and cheese mixture in advance.
Refrigerate in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain texture.
Queso Flameado, or Queso Fundido, is more than just melted cheese; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and the joy of sharing food.
With its versatility, you can adapt this recipe to suit any palate or occasion. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a fan of spicy Mexican cuisine, or just looking for a new dish to impress your guests, this recipe promises satisfaction.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate melty cheese experience.
If you made this recipe and loved it, please leave a comment and rating.
Recipe
Queso Flameado Recipe (Queso Fundido)
Ingredients
- 1 pound chorizo
- 16 ounces shredded chihuahua cheese (or Oaxaca, Monterrey Jack, or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro
- Optional sides: tortillas, chips, salsa, guacamole
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Chorizo:
- In a large oven-safe skillet (like cast iron), cook the chorizo over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Drain excess grease, leaving a small amount to keep the chorizo moist and flavorful.
Layer the Cheese:
- Spread the cooked chorizo evenly across the bottom of the skillet. You can reserve a tablespoon to add to the top before serving.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the chorizo, covering it completely.
Bake the Queso Flameado:
- Transfer the dish or skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Broil for a Golden Top (Optional):
- If desired, broil the queso fundido on high for 1–2 minutes to create a golden, bubbly top. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Garnish:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and spread the remaining chorizo over the cheese, then sprinkle with the cilantro for a fresh touch.
Serve:
- Serve the queso fundido immediately with warm tortillas, tortilla chips, guacamole, or salsa on the side.
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