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Queso Fundido with Chorizo Recipe 🧀

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Get ready to indulge in low-carb deliciousness with our mouthwatering keto Queso Fundido with Chorizo recipe! Whether hosting a party, having a game night, or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, this queso fundido will always steal the show! So, let's fire up that oven and dive into this cheesy goodness that's both keto-friendly and bursting with pure joy. Let's do this!

Queso Fundido with Chorizo in a cast iron skillet

This Queso Fundido with Chorizo recipe is sponsored by our friends at Kiolbassa Smoked Meats. Thanks for supporting the brands that make Cast Iron Keto possible!

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Preparation and cooking overview

Making queso fundido with chorizo is a breeze! Cook the chorizo until it's nicely browned, and sauté the diced onions, jalapeño, and bell pepper until they're soft and flavorful. Layer on plenty of cheese, assemble in a skillet, and bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. In just 30 minutes, you'll have a tasty appetizer ready to enjoy!

Chef's note

For a toned-down version, choose a softer cheese mix or lessen the jalapeño.

Craving more kick? Go for a hotter chorizo and a touch of cayenne pepper.

This dish is a star as an appetizer, but it's equally winning as a filling breakfast. Enjoy it with scrambled eggs or roll it into a low-carb tortilla—what a tasty way to kick off your day! This queso skillet pairs wonderfully with low-carb tortilla chips or freshly sliced veggies. For another option, lay it over some grilled meat—chicken is excellent—and wrap it up in low-carb tortillas. So good!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 12 Servings

🌶️ Ingredients for this Queso Fundido with Chorizo recipe

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 6 ounces of cooked Kiolbassa Chorizo casing removed
  • 1 small white onion finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper finely diced
  • 1-2 jalapeño minced
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 pounds Monterrey Jack cheese grated
  • 1 cup pico de gallo
  • Cilantro for topping

Ingredient substitutions

Looking to switch things up in this recipe? Check out these ingredient swaps:

  • White onion: If white onions aren't your thing, swap them for red onions, shallots, or scallions for a different flavor profile.
  • Green bell pepper: For a twist, switch the green bell pepper with poblano pepper, or use any other low-carb vegetable like zucchini or diced tomatoes.
  • Jalapeño: If you're not a fan of spice, you can use a milder pepper like Anaheim or green bell pepper or skip it altogether.
  • Chili powder: Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by using less chili powder or substitute it with cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
  • Monterrey Jack Cheese: You can use keto-friendly cheeses such as cheddar, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique taste.
  • Cilantro: If you're not a fan of cilantro, use parsley or green onions as a fresh topping alternative.

Additional ingredients

Want to add an extra flair to this recipe? Try these optional ingredients that are keto-friendly!

  • Sliced black olives: These briny little delights add a savory flavor that complements the richness of the chorizo and cheese.
  • Diced avocado: Incorporate diced avocado to add a luscious, satisfying texture.
  • Sliced bell peppers: Amp up the color and crunch by adding some colorful sliced bell peppers to the mix.
  • Garlic powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder can work wonders for an extra punch of savory goodness.
  • Fresh lime juice: A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright and zesty note, balancing the richness of the cheese and chorizo.
queso fundido with chorizo being scooped up with a tortilla chip

Cooking tools required

To make this queso fundido recipe, you require the following tools:

Tools substitute options

  • Slotted spoons: You can use a regular spoon or a spatula to remove the cooked chorizo from the skillet, allowing any excess grease to drain.

How to make Queso Fundido with Chorizo: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Pan-frying
  • Baking

Preparation steps

  1. Gather all the ingredients.
  2. Mince the jalapenos, chop up the cilantro and dice the onion and bell peppers.
  3. Grate the cheese.

Cooking instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Heat the oil in a 10" cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo to the pan and cook, crumbling with the back of a wooden spoon, for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  3. Add the diced onion, jalapeno, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add chili powder and sea salt. Cook 30 seconds longer, then remove from the heat.
  4. Add about ⅓ of the cheese to the skillet along with half of the cooked chorizo. Stir to combine. Top with the remaining cheese and the rest of the chorizo in the middle.
  5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with pico de gallo and cilantro, and serve.

Chef's pro tip

Be mindful not to overcook the chorizo – a common mistake. Sear it for 4-5 minutes until just browned and heated through. This ensures a juicy and flavorful outcome, making your keto skillet creation a delight!

Queso Fundido with Chorizo in a cast iron skillet

What to serve with queso fundido with chorizo?

  • Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs the flavors of the skillet while adding a satisfying texture.
  • Zucchini Noodles: These "zoodles" bring a fresh crunch to the dish and soak up the delicious juices.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their hearty texture and slightly nutty flavor offer a delightful contrast to the queso fundido.
  • Low-carb tortilla chips: Serve a bowl of low-carb warm tortillas for a classic dipping goodness, scooping up that cheesy goodness with each bite.
  • Spicy jalapeño slaw: The heat of the slaw complements the chorizo's spiciness, while the crunch balances the dish.
  • Cabbage and Bacon Stir-fry: The crunch of cabbage and the smoky bacon add layers of flavor and texture.

How to make it healthier?

  • Go for reduced-fat Monterrey Jack cheese or a blend of reduced-fat cheeses to reduce overall calories and saturated fat without compromising the cheesy goodness.
  • Boost the veggie content by adding diced tomatoes, spinach, or grated zucchini to increase fiber and essential nutrients.
  • Pair the queso fundido with whole-grain tortilla chips or low-carb, high-fiber crackers for a healthier dipping option that adds nutrients to your snack.

Time-saving tips

  • Pre-shredded cheese: Go for pre-shredded Monterrey Jack cheese to skip the grating and get straight to melting that cheesy goodness.
  • Use store-bought pico de gallo: You can use store-bought pico de gallo for this recipe, making it a quick and convenient option to add a burst of fresh flavors to your queso fundido with chorizo recipe.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Pre-cook chorizo: Cook the chorizo ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it's time to make the queso fundido, you'll have the perfectly cooked chorizo ready.
  • Make pico de gallo: Making pico de gallo in advance is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld and develop over time. Combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and a bowl squeeze of fresh lime juice. Season with salt, mix well, and let the flavors marry for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Refrigerator: After cooking, allow the queso fundido to cool. Store the leftovers in an airtight container or cover the skillet tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Then refrigerate and consume the dish within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.
  • Freezer: You can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Place a portion of the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
  • Broiler: Place the refrigerated leftovers in an oven-safe dish, spread it evenly, and broil on high for 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Our delightful Keto Queso Fundido with Chorizo recipe is a winner, leaving you with smiles. From the ooey-gooey cheese to the savory chorizo, this low-carb appetizer is a flavor explosion that'll steal the spotlight.

So, let's get this cheesy party started and savor every moment of a healthier, happier lifestyle with this scrumptious dish. Enjoy and spread the cheesy love!

Queso Fundido with Chorizo in a cast iron skillet

Interested in trying more Mexican recipes? Explore these recipes now!

Frequently asked questions

Monterrey Jack cheese goes extremely well with chorizo. Its creamy and mild flavor perfectly complements the bold and spicy notes of the chorizo.

Queso fundido is best enjoyed as a warm and gooey dip. Simply scoop up the cheesy goodness with low-carb tortilla chips, fresh-cut veggies, or any other keto-friendly dippers of your choice.

Yes, queso fundido is keto-friendly! It's low in carbs and high in fats, making it a perfect choice for those following a ketogenic lifestyle.

"Queso fundido" translates to "melty cheese" in Spanish. The dish gets its name from the process of melting the cheese until it becomes beautifully gooey and irresistible.

To reheat queso fundido, place it in an oven-safe dish and broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes.

This recipe is curated keeping the ketogenic diet in mind, so it has low carbs. Check the recipe card at the bottom for comprehensive nutrition information, including carb count.

📖 Recipe

Queso Fundido with Chorizo in a cast iron skillet

Queso Fundido with Chorizo

This Keto Queso Fundido with Chorizo is a stellar low-carb appetizer that will be a party favorite! Serve with chips or veggies.
5 from 3 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: keto queso
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 349kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 6 ounces cooked Kiolbassa chorizo casing removed
  • 1 small white onion finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper finely diced (or poblano pepper 😍 )
  • 1 jalapeño minced
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 lbs Monterrey Jack cheese grated
  • 1 cup pico de gallo
  • Cilantro for topping
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Heat the oil in a 10" cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo to the pan and cook, crumbling with the back of a wooden spoon, for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  • Add the diced onion, jalapeno, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add in the chili powder and sea salt. Cook 30 seconds longer then remove from the heat.
  • Add about ⅓ of the cheese to the skillet along with half of the chorizo. Stir to combine. Top with the remaining cheese and the rest of the chorizo in the middle.
  • Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with pico and cilantro and serve.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Queso Fundido with Chorizo
Amount Per Serving
Calories 349 Calories from Fat 252
% Daily Value*
Fat 28g43%
Saturated Fat 16g100%
Cholesterol 76mg25%
Sodium 690mg30%
Potassium 92mg3%
Carbohydrates 5g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 21g42%
Vitamin A 820IU16%
Vitamin C 11mg13%
Calcium 567mg57%
Iron 1mg6%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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