If you’re craving a dish that combines the rich comfort of melted cheese with the bold, savory flavors of chorizo and sausage, then this Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Sausage, and Melted Cheese Recipe is going to become your new go-to appetizer or party favorite. Imagine gooey, bubbling cheese layered with perfectly seasoned meats and a touch of fresh veggies and herbs to brighten every bite. This recipe is the ultimate fiesta starter that’s as fun to make as it is to devour!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe requires simple but essential ingredients that really shine when combined. Each element brings something special to the table, whether it’s the spicy kick of jalapeño, the creamy blend of cheeses, or the fresh punch from tomatoes and cilantro.
- ½ pound chorizo: Provides smoky, spicy depth that defines the dish’s flavor.
- ½ pound breakfast sausage: Adds a savory, slightly peppery balance to the chorizo’s richness.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and earthiness to the sausage mixture.
- ½ cup diced onion: Softens and sweetens when cooked, layering more texture and taste.
- 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and ribs removed, diced): Adds a fresh, mild heat without overpowering the dish.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Introduces aromatic depth that awakens every bite.
- 3 tablespoons tequila (optional): Gives a subtle brightness and complexity when deglazing.
- 1 tablespoon canola oil: Perfect for brushing the skillet to prevent sticking and crisp edges.
- 1 pound grated cheese (Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella blend): The star ingredient that melts into a luscious, gooey base.
- 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes: Adds juicy freshness and vibrant color on top.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Imparts an herbal brightness that contrasts the rich cheese and meat.
- Crumbled Queso Fresco cheese: Offers a crumbly, salty finish that lifts the entire dish.
- Tortilla chips: Serve as the perfect crunchy vehicle to scoop up all the melty goodness.
How to Make Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Sausage, and Melted Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F. This ensures it’s the perfect temperature to get the cheese bubbly and golden brown by the time your Queso Fundido is ready to serve.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large oven-safe skillet, crumble the chorizo and breakfast sausage into the pan over medium heat. Cook until beautifully browned and fragrant. Add kosher salt and pepper to season, then transfer the cooked meat to a bowl, reserving 2 tablespoons of the flavorful rendered fat in the skillet. This mixture forms the hearty, savory foundation of your queso.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies and Deglaze
Using the reserved fat, toss in the diced onions and jalapeño pepper and cook until softened and tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more to keep it from burning but release its aromatic charm. Remove the skillet from heat and pour in the optional tequila to deglaze, scraping up all those delicious browned bits. Stir thoroughly, then combine this aromatic mix back into your sausage bowl.
Step 4: Layer the Cheese and Sausage
Lightly brush the skillet with canola oil to prevent sticking. Spread a third of the grated cheese across the bottom, then top with half of the sausage and veggie mixture. This layering technique ensures every bite will have a perfect balance of cheese and rich meat.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Add another third of the cheese followed by the remaining sausage mixture. Finish by sprinkling the last of the cheese evenly on top. These layers make the queso irresistibly melty and gooey once baked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the skillet in your preheated oven and keep a close eye after 10 minutes, checking every 2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly, melty, and just starting to turn golden on the edges. This precise timing helps you avoid firm or rubbery cheese, celebrating all the best textures.
Step 7: Add Fresh Toppings
When your queso fundido comes out hot and bubbling, sprinkle the top with juicy diced Roma tomatoes and freshly chopped cilantro. Finish with a generous scattering of crumbled Queso Fresco for that salty, tangy kick that brightens every spoonful. A small bowl of chili seasoning on the side lets guests add an extra layer of flavor if they want.
Step 8: Serve Immediately with Chips
This dish is best enjoyed straight from the oven while the cheese is still soft and molten. Serve with a bowl of crunchy tortilla chips perfect for scooping up that cheesy, meaty goodness.
How to Serve Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Sausage, and Melted Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh toppings like diced tomatoes and cilantro brighten the heavy richness and add inviting pops of color and flavor. Don’t miss the final dusting of crumbled Queso Fresco—it gives a subtle tang and melt-in-your-mouth contrast that’s essential to making your Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Sausage, and Melted Cheese Recipe sing.
Side Dishes
You can keep it simple with tortilla chips, but this dish also loves to be paired with warm flour tortillas, a fresh green salad with lime dressing, or even grilled veggies for a heartier meal. The versatility invites you to customize your feast to match your mood and company.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your queso fundido in a rustic cast-iron skillet or a colorful ceramic dish to bring out that festive vibe. For a fun twist, offer an array of dippers beyond just chips, like crunchy jicama sticks, blanched asparagus, or even warm pita wedges. Making it interactive lets everyone build their perfect bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cool the queso completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it keeps well for up to 3 days, though it’s always best fresh for maximum gooey goodness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe because the texture of melted cheese and sausage tends to change once thawed, potentially becoming grainy or watery. For best results, enjoy your queso fundido fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a microwave or in a skillet over low heat until the cheese melts and is hot again. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore some of the original creaminess if it feels a bit dried out.
FAQs
Can I make this Queso Fundido with different types of sausage?
Absolutely! While chorizo and breakfast sausage offer a perfect flavor combo here, feel free to experiment with spicy Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. Just make sure to adjust seasoning to balance the flavors.
Is it necessary to use tequila in this recipe?
Tequila adds a special brightness and deglazing effect to the pan, lifting those browned bits into the sauce. However, if you prefer not to use alcohol, simply skip it or substitute with a splash of chicken broth or water.
What cheeses work best for this Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Sausage, and Melted Cheese Recipe?
The key is to use cheeses that melt smoothly and stretch beautifully. Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, and a bit of sharp cheese create the perfect blend of creamy, gooey texture and flavor depth.
Can I prepare this ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the sausage and veggie mixture a day ahead and assemble the queso just before baking. This cuts down on last-minute prep without sacrificing freshness and flavor.
What are good alternatives to tortilla chips for dipping?
Tortilla chips are classic, but you can also offer warm flour tortillas, crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots or celery, or even pita chips to mix things up and keep everyone happy.
Final Thoughts
This Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Sausage, and Melted Cheese Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors with irresistibly melty cheese for a memorable experience. Whether you’re gathering with friends or simply craving a comforting treat, this recipe brings warmth, spice, and a whole lot of joyful eating. Give it a try and get ready to see it disappear in record time!
Print
Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Sausage, and Melted Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Queso Fundido is a delicious Mexican appetizer featuring melted cheese combined with spicy chorizo and breakfast sausage, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic tequila. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and crumbled Queso Fresco, this warm, gooey dish is perfect for serving with crunchy tortilla chips at any gathering.
Ingredients
Sausage and Meat
- ½ pound chorizo (or hot breakfast sausage, casings removed)
- ½ pound breakfast sausage (casings removed)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and ribs removed, diced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 pound grated cheese (a combination of Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, and Mozzarella)
- Crumbled Queso Fresco cheese (for topping)
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons tequila (optional)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- Tortilla chips (store-bought or homemade, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare it for baking the queso fundido.
- Cook Sausage: In a large, oven-safe skillet, crumble and brown the chorizo and breakfast sausage over medium heat. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, stirring well. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a bowl, reserving only 2 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the skillet and discarding the rest.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and jalapeño pepper to the skillet with the reserved fat and cook until soft. Add the minced garlic, reduce heat to low, and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove skillet from heat and deglaze it with tequila if using, stirring well. Combine this onion mixture with the cooked sausage and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Layers: Lightly brush the skillet with canola oil. Spread one-third of the grated cheese evenly on the bottom of the skillet. Top this layer with half of the sausage mixture.
- Add More Layers: Add another one-third of the cheese over the sausage, followed by the remaining sausage mixture. Finish by sprinkling the last third of cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is bubbly and gooey, approximately 10 minutes initially, then check every 2 minutes to avoid overcooking. The cheese should not become firm but remain melted and stretchy.
- Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven and immediately top the queso fundido with the diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and a generous sprinkling of crumbled Queso Fresco cheese. Optionally, provide a small bowl of chili seasoning for those who want extra spice.
- Serve: Serve the queso fundido hot and fresh from the oven accompanied by tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- Using an oven-safe skillet is essential for browning the sausage and baking the cheese without transferring between dishes.
- Tequila adds a subtle flavor to the dish but can be omitted if preferred.
- Be careful not to over-bake the cheese; it should be bubbly and gooey, not dry or firm.
- Mix different types of melting cheeses like Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, and Mozzarella for best texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately as queso fundido is best enjoyed hot and melty.
