Queso Fundido is an addictive and crowd-pleasing appetizer! Packed with ooey-gooey cheese and layers of savory chorizo sausage, onions, and bell peppers, it’s a recipe that will become a staple at all your gatherings! If you like dips, make sure to check out our Jalapeño Corn Dip too!

What is Queso Fundido?
The name “queso fundido” literally translates to “melted cheese,” is a popular Mexican appetizer that consists of gooey, melted cheese often mixed with flavorful ingredients like chorizo, peppers, and onions. Traditionally served in a skillet, this dish is typically baked or broiled until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly. It is usually accompanied by warm tortillas or tortilla chips, making it ideal for dipping and sharing!
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Chorizo Sausage: You can use breakfast sausage as a substitute.
- Onions: Yellow onions are standard, but red onions add a bit more sweetness and color.
- Green Peppers: Substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Cheese: Go for a melty cheese, like mozzarella or even queso cheese.
- Chili Powder: Adjust to taste or swap with smoked paprika for a smokey kick.
- Tomatoes: Any type of tomato will work just as well.
- Jalapeños: If you don’t like a spicy kick, these can be omitted.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to enhance your cooking experience:
To save time and ensure your skillet is ready for immediate use, preheat your oven to 400°F before you start cooking. When layering cheese, it helps meld the flavors together, guaranteeing that every bite is cheesy and delicious. Be cautious not to over bake your queso fundido; bake it just long enough for the cheese to melt, typically 10-12 minutes, to avoid a greasy texture. Lastly, add garnishes like tomatoes and cilantro after baking to preserve their fresh flavor and vibrant appearance.
Storage Instructions
Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake in a covered dish for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated.
Skillet Queso Fundido
Ingredients
- 1 pound chorizo sausage
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 large green pepper, seeded and finely diced
- 3 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- Cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Tortilla Chips, for serving
- jalapeños, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chorizo sausage. Use the back of a wooden spoon to break up the meat into crumbles as it cooks.
- Once fully cooked, drain the fat and transfer the cooked chorizo to a clean plate.
- In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion and green bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked onions and peppers to a plate. Use a paper towel to wipe out the skillet.
- In a medium bowl, combine both cheeses. Mix well.
- In the empty skillet, sprinkle 1 cup of the cheese blend evenly on the bottom.
- Top with half of the cooked chorizo sausage.
- Add another cup of the cheese over the sausage.
- Sprinkle on half of the cooked onions and bell peppers.
- Add the remaining chorizo sausage on top of the vegetables.
- Sprinkle another cup of the cheese over the sausage.
- Add the remaining onions and bell peppers.
- Finish by covering everything with the remaining cup cheese.
- Sprinkle the chili powder evenly over the top.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- For a golden, bubbly top, switch your oven to broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Once out of the oven, top the dip with tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapenos.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping.
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Recipe inspired by iamhomesteader.com