Melted Cheese with Chorizo (Queso Fundido)

Ingredients

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- 8 oz raw Mexican chorizo (not cured)

- 2 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella)

- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack (or mild cheddar)

- ½ small white onion, finely chopped

- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)

- 1 tbsp olive oil, if needed for sautéing

- Chopped cilantro or green onion (for garnish)

- Tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas, for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a broiler to finish, position a rack near the top and turn broiler on once the cheese goes into the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Chorizo

Place a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Remove the casing from the chorizo and crumble it into the pan.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula until fully browned and slightly crispy.

🧠 Tip: Some chorizo releases a lot of oil. You can spoon off excess fat, but leave a little for flavor and to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)

Once the chorizo is nearly cooked, stir in the chopped onion and jalapeño.
Sauté for another 2–3 minutes, just until the onions are soft and translucent and the jalapeño has mellowed.

🔥 For extra flavor, you can also add a clove of minced garlic or ¼ tsp smoked paprika.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese

If using the same skillet, spread the cooked chorizo mixture evenly across the bottom.
Sprinkle both the Oaxaca and Monterey Jack cheese over the top in an even layer. Make sure it fully covers the meat mixture.

💡 Don’t stir the cheese into the chorizo—let it sit on top so it melts into a bubbly golden layer.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling at the edges.

If you want that golden top, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (use oven mitts!).
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or green onions, and serve immediately with warm tortillas or tortilla chips.

⚠️ This dish cools fast, so serve it hot and gooey. You can place the skillet on a warming tray or insulated board for parties.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes