About the Recipe
Queso Fundido, a beloved traditional Mexican dish, literally translates to “melted cheese,” and that is exactly what makes it so irresistible. This warm, gooey appetizer is typically crafted by melting rich, flavorful cheeses—most commonly Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or Monterey Jack—until bubbly and golden. Traditionally, it is paired with savory crumbles of spiced chorizo, which infuse the cheese with a smoky, slightly spicy depth of flavor. In many variations, the dish also features sautéed vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, and mushrooms, adding layers of sweetness, earthiness, and a hint of heat.
Queso Fundido is always served piping hot, often straight from the skillet or small cast iron pan it was baked in. It’s best enjoyed with soft, warm tortillas or crisp tortilla chips, which act as the perfect vessels for scooping up the molten cheese. This communal dish is often shared at the start of a meal, inviting friends and family to gather around and dip together.
While its roots are in rustic Mexican kitchens, Queso Fundido has grown popular worldwide for its simplicity and rich flavors. Beyond the classic chorizo version, creative adaptations include vegetarian options loaded with grilled zucchini, roasted peppers, and meaty portobello mushrooms, as well as seafood versions or those topped with fresh herbs and salsas. No matter the variation, its comforting, melty texture and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 zucchini cut in half
1 pepper you choose which color you like cut in half
1 large portobello mushroom
Monterey or Oaxaca Cheese grated (2 ½ cups)
Preparation
Roast the vegetables on the barbecue or in an oven.
Place the queso Oaxaca cheese in a cast iron pan.
Season the cheese with your preferred Mexican seasoning.
Melt the cheese on the barbecue or in the oven, keeping a close eye on it.
Add the vegetables once the cheese has started to melt.
Notes