Queso Fundido With Red And Green Chile

Indulge in the rich flavors of Mexico with our Queso Fundido, a savory delight that combines the smoky heat of Hatch green chiles and the sweetness of red bell peppers, all blanketed in melted Monterey Jack cheese.

This dish is a celebration of textures and tastes, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, our Queso Fundido with Red and Green Chile promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Queso Fundido With Red And Green Chile

Ingredients:

1/2 cup Hatch green chile small diced

1/2 cup Red bell pepper small diced

3/4 cup monterey jack cheese small cubed (as little as 1/2 cup can be used. Cubed cheese is preferred.)

3 tsp olive oil

1/4 cup Onion small chopped

1 clove Garlic minced

3/4 tsp sea salt

1/4 cup water

Instructions:

Step 1:

Wash and prep all ingredients; starting with the vegetables first and the cheese cutting last.

Refrigerate the cheese after its been cut.

Step 2:

Heat oil for 2 minutes on medium heat.

Add onions, and saute for a 3 minutes then add the garlic and red pepper.

Continue to saute for additional 6-8 minutes until bell pepper is tender.

Step 3:

Add hatch green chile and water to the pan and gently stir it into the mixture.

Once evenly mixed turn stove off.

Step 4:

Layer 2 cup baking dish with cheese; pepper mixture; cheese.

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 10 minutes at 375 degree.

Step 5:

If baking at later time.

Covered baking dish in the refrigerator.

Baking instructions: 375 degree for 15 minutes, then uncover for last 5 minutes.

Notes:

Cheese Selection: Opt for high-quality Monterey Jack cheese for the best melting and flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for added depth.

Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of Hatch green chiles or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Consistency Control: Adjust the amount of water added in Step 3 to control the consistency of the queso. More water will create a thinner, pourable queso, while less will result in a thicker, dip-like consistency.

Enhance Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of ground cumin or smoked paprika during sautéing for extra depth of flavor.

Serve with Accompaniments: Offer tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or crusty bread alongside the queso for dipping. Sliced avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream can also complement the dish.

Use a Broiler: After baking, broil for a minute or two to achieve a golden brown crust on top for added texture and flavor.

Variations: Experiment with different types of peppers or cheeses to suit your taste preferences. For example, roasted poblano peppers can add a smoky flavor, or a blend of cheeses can create a more complex profile.

Presentation: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving to enhance both the visual appeal and taste.

Keep Warm: If serving at a gathering, transfer the queso to a small slow cooker or fondue pot set on low to keep it warm and gooey throughout the event.

Leftovers: Store any leftover queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain a creamy consistency.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can customize the cheese according to your preference.

While Monterey Jack is traditional, other options like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can work well too.

I can’t find Hatch green chiles. What can I substitute them with?

If you can’t find Hatch green chiles, you can substitute them with other varieties of green chiles like Anaheim or poblano peppers.

Alternatively, you can use canned green chiles.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cheese after cutting?

Yes, refrigerating the cheese after cutting helps to maintain its texture and prevents it from melting too quickly during the baking process.

It’s a good practice to keep the cheese chilled until ready to use.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.

Simply cover the baking dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to bake, follow the baking instructions provided.

I’m trying to reduce my sodium intake. Can I omit the sea salt?

Yes, you can omit the sea salt if you’re trying to reduce your sodium intake.

However, keep in mind that the cheese already contains some saltiness, so you may not miss it much.

You can always adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Can I use frozen green chiles instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen green chiles if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them before using and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is it necessary to use olive oil, or can I substitute it with another oil?

While olive oil adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with other cooking oils like vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe, like cooked ground beef or chorizo?

Absolutely! Queso fundido is quite versatile, and you can customize it by adding cooked ground beef, chorizo, mushrooms, or any other ingredients you like.

What’s the best way to dice the peppers for this recipe?

For a uniform dice, it’s best to slice the peppers into strips first and then chop them into small, even pieces.

I’m not a fan of spicy food. Can I reduce the heat by using fewer chiles?

Certainly! Adjust the amount of green chiles according to your preference for spiciness.

You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the chiles to reduce their heat.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of cubed cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, using cubed cheese is preferred for this recipe as it tends to melt more evenly and provides a better texture.

What can I serve with this Queso Fundido as a dipping option?

This dish pairs well with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or sliced vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.

Is it necessary to cover the baking dish with foil during baking?

Yes, covering the dish with foil helps to trap steam and melt the cheese evenly.

It also prevents the cheese from drying out during baking.

Can I make this recipe in advance and freeze it?

While you can prepare the components of the dish in advance, it’s not recommended to freeze it after baking as the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Queso Fundido?

To reheat leftovers, simply place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings until warm and bubbly.