If you’re in search of a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is both effortless to prepare and satisfies a large group, give this recipe for indulgent Queso Fundido a try. This uncomplicated Mexican dip, made with melted cheese and sausage, has the power to quiet even the most boisterous gathering, as everyone will be too occupied indulging to do anything but express their approval through satisfied grunts.
What’s The Difference Between Queso and Queso Fundido?
Do not mistake the traditional Mexican comfort food, Queso Fundido, with its Tex-Mex counterpart, Queso, despite the translation of its name to “melted cheese.” Queso is merely a dish consisting of melted yellow cheese, while Queso Fundido involves the melting of white cheese over a second prominent ingredient: chorizo.
Ingredients for Queso fundido
To create a classic Queso Fundido, simply gather two essential ingredients: Mexican Chorizo and white Mexican melting cheese. Enhance its flavors by adding a topping of green onions, tomatoes, or cilantro. Accompany this delightful dish with soft tortillas or thick tortilla chips. In case Mexican Chorizo doesn’t appeal to you, feel free to swap it with any other type of sausage. For a vegetarian option, opt for soy-based chorizo and still enjoy the same delicious taste.
What cheese can I use to make Queso Fundido?
For this dish, the recommended cheeses are Queso Asadero, Queso de Oaxaca, Queso Quesadilla, or Queso Chihuahua also known as Menonita. Additionally, you can opt for shredded Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella. It is advisable to avoid using Queso Fresco, Cotija, or Ranchero as they do not melt well.
How to Store Leftover Queso Fundido
To preserve any remaining food, transfer it to a tightly sealed container. Ensure there is some space in the container, then gently press a plastic sheet onto the dip’s surface before sealing it. This step is important to prevent the formation of a thick layer. Store in the refrigerator for a maximum of three days or freeze for up to three months.
How To Reheat Queso Fundido
If you need to reheat the Queso Fundido from frozen, it is recommended to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply place the Queso Fundido in a non-stick pan and heat it over medium heat. Stir the cheese until it warms up and becomes more fluid. Although it may separate, resulting in a pool of water on the surface of the dip, there is no need to worry. Just continue stirring. If the consistency is too thick for your liking, you can add a few tablespoons of heavy cream or whole milk to thin it out.
How to Make Queso Fundido – Step by Step Photos
To begin, set the oven temperature to 300°F. Next, take out the chorizo from its casing (if applicable) and proceed to grate the cheese using the largest holes of a box grater.
Place an oven-safe skillet on the stove over medium heat and pour in the tablespoon of oil. Allow the chorizo to cook for approximately 7 to 8 minutes until the fat is rendered and the sausage becomes bubbly. Due to its tendency to stick, it is advised to frequently stir the pan and avoid increasing the heat.
Remove the excess fat from the skillet, ensuring to keep approximately 3 tablespoons of chorizo for garnishing purposes. In case the chorizo contains excessive fat, absorb it by placing the chorizo on paper towels before returning it to the skillet. Lastly, sprinkle the grated cheese over the chorizo.
To achieve a perfectly melted and bubbly cheese, carefully place the skillet in the oven and cook for approximately 5 to 7 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the cheese to prevent clumping. Once done, transfer the skillet to a heat-proof surface and adorn it with the reserved chorizo for added flavor. Serve the dish promptly. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or chopped cilantro leaves.
