Kickin Queso Fundido with Chorizo and a Tequila Twist
Recipe Introduction
Ever have one of those days where only cheese can fix it? Honestly, me too! That's where this Kickin' Queso Fundido with Chorizo and a Tequila Twist comes in.
It's the best cheese dip you'll ever make, packed with flavor and guaranteed to turn any frown upside down.
This recipe is inspired by classic Queso fundido recipe from Northern Mexico. The queso cheese is a cultural staple, often enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations.
It elevates the classic with spicy chorizo and a cheeky splash of tequila. This is a medium difficulty recipe. It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
It is perfect for sharing with 6-8 friends as an appetizer.
Craving something truly comforting? This Queso Homemade is your answer. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it's also a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to all that glorious cheese! This Queso Blanco cheese dip is ideal for game day, a casual get-together, or even just a cozy night in front of the telly.
What makes it special? Well, the combination of spicy chorizo, smooth tequila, and the ultimate blend of melty cheeses is simply divine.
It’s an easy queso recipe , even if you are not an expert.
Ready to dive in?
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Cheese Dip
Alright, let's talk ingredients for our Kickin' Queso Fundido . Honestly, getting these right is half the battle. This queso homemade goodness is all about the cheese.
I had one experience when I bought preshredded and it didn't melt right.
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific
Okay, pay attention, my friend. Here's what you'll need.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml). Any good quality oil will do.
- Mexican Chorizo: 1 pound (454 g) , removed from casings. Look for chorizo that's fresh, not too greasy.
- White Onion: 1/2 medium, finely chopped.
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced. Add more if you like it hot.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh is best.
- Tequila: 1/4 cup (60 ml). Blanco or reposado is fine. Trust me. Tequila queso dip is the way to go.
- Fresh Cilantro: 1 tablespoon, chopped, plus more for garnish.
- Oaxaca Cheese: 8 ounces (227 g) , shredded. This is key for that melty, stringy texture. Try to find a good brand. If not, Monterey jack works.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: 4 ounces (113g) , shredded.
- Asadero Cheese: 2 ounces (57g) , shredded.
- Milk or Cream: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). This helps with the melting.
- Salt: Pinch, if needed. Taste as you go!
- Black Pepper: Pinch, freshly ground.
I cannot stress enough that cheese quality matters. Crappy cheese = Crappy queso cheese . Period.
Seasoning Sensations: Spice It Up
Now, for the flavour party.
- Essential Spice Combination: The chorizo is doing most of the heavy lifting here. The jalapeño adds heat. Don't be shy!.
- Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics: Garlic and onion are our base. They add depth. Trust me, they are key.
- Quick Substitution Options: No tequila? A little chicken broth will do.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Right, onto the gear. Nothing fancy needed for easy queso recipe .
- Oven Safe Skillet: A 10 inch cast iron is ideal.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Grater
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
If you don't have a cast iron, any oven safe skillet will do. No stress! I hope you can appreciate this Queso Blanco Cheese Dip recipe.
Let's get cooking!. It's going to be the best cheese dip you've ever had.
Kickin' Queso Fundido: Let's Get Dippin'!
Oh my gosh, you have to try this queso fundido recipe ! Honestly, it’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a night in with friends or just, you know, when you need a cheese fix.
We're talking seriously melty, bubbly, and packed with flavour. Forget that jarred stuff, this is the real deal, baby! It is the best cheese dip to bring out your inner chef.
Prep Like a Pro
Before we dive in, let’s get our mise en place sorted. Chop that onion, mince the garlic, and shred your cheeses.
Honestly, grating your own Oaxaca cheese dip cheese makes a huge difference. I know, it's a bit of a faff, but trust me, pre-shredded cheese just doesn’t melt the same.
Got your queso cheese ready? Right, let’s roll!
step-by-step Queso Homemade Goodness
Follow these simple steps, and you'll have bubbling, cheesy goodness in no time:
- Sauté 1 pound of chorizo in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Break it up nice and good.
- Add 1/2 cup chopped onion and 1 minced jalapeño. Cook until soft.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute .
- Carefully pour in 1/4 cup of tequila and let it simmer for 1 minute . Ooh, fancy!
- In a bowl, mix 8 ounces of Oaxaca, 4 ounces of Monterey Jack and 2 ounces of Asadero cheese with 2 tablespoons of milk.
- Layer the chorizo mixture in an oven safe skillet, then top with the cheese.
- Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20 minutes or broil until bubbly.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.
Pro Tips and Tricks for Queso Blanco Cheese Dip
Want to take your queso game to the next level? Here are a couple of my favourite tricks. Want to be faster, you can use an easy queso recipe.
- Don't overcook! Overcooked cheese gets greasy. Aim for melty and bubbly, not scorched.
- Spice it up! Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick. I sometimes add a dash of hot sauce for a bit of zing.
If you are up to a Mexican cheese dip with chorizo , then experiment with different types of chorizo.
I hope this gets you on the path to creating a divine Blanco Dip you'll be excited to share. So, are you ready to try the tequila queso dip ?
Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for Kickin' Queso Fundido
Right, let's talk Queso Fundido . Honestly, mastering The Best Cheese Dip is all about the details. It's not just throwing cheese in a pan.
Here's the lowdown on making it amazing .
Get Your Dip On: Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key! I love serving my Homemade Queso Cheese bubbling hot in the cast iron skillet it was baked in.
It looks rustic and inviting, you know? A scattering of fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
For sides, think beyond just tortilla chips. Warm tortillas are a must for scooping up all that cheesy goodness. I also like to offer a platter of crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, and cucumber.
Cold beers or margaritas are the perfect drinks to wash it all down.
Storing Secrets: Keepin' it Fresh
Leftover Queso cheese , I hear you ask? Rare, but it happens! Pop it in an airtight container and into the fridge. It will keep for about 3-4 days .
Reheating is easy. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Or, warm it up in a skillet over low heat.
You can also add a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
Freezing the Queso Homemade it's not really recommended, as the texture can change. Cheese can get a bit grainy when thawed. Better to just eat it all now, right?
Twist It Up: Variations on a Theme
Feeling adventurous? Try adding roasted poblano peppers for a smoky kick. Or, swap out the chorizo for some spicy Mexican sausage. Yum!
For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and black beans work a treat! Just make sure to season them well.
Dietary adaptations? Use reduced fat cheeses for a lighter version. And for gluten-free, just be sure to serve with corn tortillas or veggies.
Nutrition Nuggets: The Good Stuff
Okay, let's be real: This is Mexican cheese dip with chorizo . It’s not exactly health food. But cheese has calcium, and chorizo has protein... so there's that!
Each serving has about 350-450 calories. Keep portions reasonable, and remember to balance it out with plenty of veggies. Everything in moderation, darlings! It’s great for that Oaxaca cheese dip craving.
So there you have it! All my insider tips for making the best tequila queso dip . Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with it.
Honestly, this easy queso recipe is foolproof. Now go forth and create some cheesy magic with Queso Blanco Cheese Dip you’ve got this! It will be the best Blanco Dip you've ever made!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cheese is best for queso cheese, and can I mix it up a bit?
Absolutely! For a classic melt, Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, and Asadero cheeses are fantastic in this queso cheese recipe. But feel free to get creative! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a bit of provolone can add interesting flavors and textures. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for that lovely, gooey consistency.
My queso cheese turned out greasy. What did I do wrong?
Oh dear, nobody likes a greasy queso! This usually happens when the cheese is overheated. Try reducing the heat source and avoid over baking or broiling. Also, using pre-shredded cheese can contribute to greasiness due to the cellulose added to prevent clumping.
Go for freshly shredded next time you'll be glad you did!
Can I make this Kickin' Queso Fundido with Chorizo and a Tequila Twist ahead of time?
You can prep some of the components ahead of time. The chorizo base can be cooked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it's best to assemble and bake the queso cheese right before serving to ensure that perfect, melty texture. Nobody wants a cold, congealed queso that's just not cricket!
I'm trying to be healthy ish. Any tips for making a lower fat version of this queso cheese?
Good on you for thinking about a lighter version! You can use reduced fat cheeses and substitute the milk/cream with skim milk. Alternatively, you could bulk up the chorizo base with more vegetables like peppers and onions, which means you can use less chorizo overall. Every little helps, as they say!
I don't have tequila! Is there anything else I can use in the recipe?
While the tequila adds a unique flavor dimension, you can certainly substitute it. Chicken broth or even a bit of water can be used to deglaze the pan after cooking the chorizo. However, it won't have the same oomph.
If you have any other liquor on hand, like a splash of white wine or even a bit of beer, that could also work in a pinch.
Help! My queso cheese is too thick. What can I do to thin it out?
No worries, a bit of extra liquid is your friend here! Gently stir in a tablespoon or two of warm milk or cream until the queso reaches your desired consistency. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of beer can also add a nice flavor.
Just add a little at a time and stir until it's just right - you'll be singing "Cheese, glorious cheese!" in no time.
Kickin Queso Fundido With Chorizo And A Tequila
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |
