Skillet Queso Fundido con Chile Verde

Indulge in the ultimate cheesy delight with Skillet Queso Fundido con Chile Verde! This molten hot dish features a luscious blend of Muenster, Pepper Jack, and cream cheese, perfectly melted to create a creamy, gooey experience.

Enhanced by the vibrant flavors of Hatch green chiles and optional add-ins like chorizo or bacon, it’s a savory treat that’s perfect for sharing.

Serve it with warm corn tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer or party snack that will leave everyone wanting more!

Reasons to Love This Recipe

Cheesy, gooey goodness that’s totally irresistible

Quick and easy to prepare in one skillet

Customizable with your favorite toppings or proteins

Crowd-pleaser at any fiesta, game day, or casual get-together

Naturally gluten-free when served with corn tortillas or chips

Key Ingredients

Muenster & Pepper Jack cheese – The perfect combo of creamy melt and zesty flavor

Cream cheese – Adds extra richness and smooth texture

Hatch green chiles – Smoky, mildly spicy kick (use canned or roasted fresh)

Optional add-ins – Chorizo, bacon, or jalapeños for extra depth and spice

Corn tortillas or chips – For scooping up all that melted magic

Skillet Queso Fundido con Chile Verde

Ingredients:

Cheese Blend:

1 cup Muenster cheese, shredded

1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

Add-ins (optional):

1 cup Hatch green chiles, chopped (canned or fresh)

1/2 cup cooked chorizo, crumbled (optional)

1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)

1 jalapeño, diced (optional)

Serving:

Warm corn tortillas, tostadas, or tortilla chips

Instructions:

Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Muenster and Pepper Jack cheese with the softened cream cheese. Mix well to combine.

Add Green Chile: Fold in the chopped Hatch green chiles and any additional ingredients like chorizo, bacon, or jalapeños if using.

Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. If you prefer, you can also preheat your oven’s broiler.

Melt the Cheese: Add the cheese mixture to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil for Extra Melt: If using the broiler, transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven (if broiled) and serve immediately with warm corn tortillas, tostadas, or tortilla chips. Enjoy your cheesy, melty goodness!

Tips:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheese types like Asadero or Manchego for different flavors.

Add More Heat: If you love spice, consider adding more jalapeños or using spicier cheese.

Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes for added freshness.

Enjoy your delicious Skillet Queso Fundido con Chile Verde!

Notes:

Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preferences. Asadero, Manchego, or even cheddar can add different flavors and textures.

Chiles: Hatch green chiles are recommended for their unique flavor, but you can substitute with any green chiles or even diced poblano peppers.

Protein Add-Ins: Adding chorizo or bacon not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nice protein boost. You can cook the chorizo in the skillet before adding the cheese mixture.

Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using mild or hot Pepper Jack cheese and varying the amount of jalapeños or chiles.

Cooking Method: This dish can be made entirely on the stovetop or finished under the broiler for a golden top. If using a broiler, keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with warm corn tortillas for a traditional touch or use tortilla chips for a more casual snack. It also makes a great topping for nachos.

Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Garnishes: Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado for added freshness and color.

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Dietary Options: To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chorizo or bacon and load up on extra vegetables.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just heat it in the skillet when you’re ready to serve.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet

Mixing bowl

Spoon or spatula

Cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)

Oven or stovetop

Recipe Swaps and Variations

Cheese swap – Try Oaxaca, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different textures

Make it vegetarian – Skip the meat and load up on extra chiles and jalapeños

Add veggies – Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms work great

Make it spicier – Use serranos or extra-hot chiles

Low-fat version – Use reduced-fat cheeses and skip the cream cheese

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring often

Note: Texture may change slightly upon reheating, but flavor remains great

Food and Drink Pairings

Serve with: Warm corn tortillas, tortilla chips, or crusty bread

Pair with: Margaritas, Mexican beer, or sparkling water with lime

Great side for: Tacos, fajitas, or grilled meats

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese is convenient and works well, but be aware that it may contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.

What if I can’t find Hatch green chiles?

You can substitute with any green chiles, such as canned green chiles or fresh poblano peppers, for a similar flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Just ensure any additional toppings or accompaniments are also gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to serve, simply heat it in the skillet until melted.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika, or toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or fresh cilantro for added freshness.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat add-ins like chorizo or bacon, and load up on extra vegetables instead.

What should I serve with Queso Fundido?

It’s delicious with warm corn tortillas, tortilla chips, or tostadas.

You can also serve it with fresh veggies for dipping.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends on the type of cheese and the amount of jalapeños or green chiles used.

Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties.

Asadero, Manchego, or even cheddar can add unique flavors to your Queso Fundido.