Cheesy Mexican Dinner Queso Fundido for a Crowd

Queso Fundido is a delightful and cheesy Mexican dish that’s perfect for gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends, this recipe for Queso Fundido is sure to impress. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it's a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with tortilla chips, tortillas, or even fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of shredded cheese (a mix of Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheese works best)
  • 1 cup of chorizo, cooked and crumbled
  • ½ cup of diced onions
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
  • ¼ cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips or warm tortillas for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Queso Fundido will be bubbly and delicious when it’s time to serve.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they are translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using), and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the chorizo: Incorporate the cooked and crumbled chorizo into the skillet, mixing well with the sautéed vegetables. Offer some seasoning with salt and pepper, stirring everything together for about 2-3 minutes.

4. Combine with cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with the shredded cheeses and half of the chopped cilantro. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed.

5. Bake to perfection: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro on top for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while hot with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for dipping.

Tips for Success:

  • For a smoky flavor, you can use smoked cheese or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the mixture.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the chorizo and add more vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese! Blends of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can add unique flavors to your dish.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Mexican Dinner Queso Fundido is a fantastic way to bring people together. It’s simple to make, delicious, and sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So grab your ingredients and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with friends and family!