Queso flameado, often referred to as “flaming cheese,” is a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich flavors of melted cheese with savory toppings, typically served with warm tortillas. This Tex-Mex favorite is perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in. Whether you prefer traditional recipes or creative twists, queso flameado is a versatile dish that can cater to every palate. In this article, we’ll explore various queso flameado recipes, from the classic versions to innovative creations that bring a modern flair to this timeless favorite.
The Basics of Queso Flameado
At its core, queso flameado is made by melting a blend of cheeses and topping it with savory ingredients such as chorizo, onions, or peppers. The dish is typically flambéed at the table for dramatic effect, though this step is optional.
Key Ingredients:
Cheese: Oaxaca, Monterrey Jack, or mozzarella are commonly used for their melting qualities.
Toppings: Chorizo, sautéed onions, roasted peppers, and mushrooms.
Seasonings: Garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder.
Accompaniments: Warm tortillas, tortilla chips, or crusty bread.
Classic Queso Flameado Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups Oaxaca cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 pound chorizo, cooked and crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small green bell pepper, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons tequila (optional, for flambéing)
Tortillas for serving
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Chorizo: In a skillet, cook the chorizo over medium heat until fully browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the smoked paprika and stir well.
Layer Ingredients: In an oven-safe dish, layer the shredded cheeses. Top with the cooked chorizo and sautéed vegetables.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Flambé (Optional): Remove from the oven, pour tequila over the top, and carefully ignite with a long lighter. Serve immediately with warm tortillas.
Vegetarian Queso Flameado Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded
1 cup queso fresco, crumbled
1/2 cup roasted poblano peppers, sliced
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
1 small onion, diced
1/4 teaspoon cumin
Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
Prepare Vegetables: Roast the poblano peppers until charred, then peel and slice. Sauté the mushrooms and onions in a skillet with cumin.
Assemble: In an oven-safe dish, layer the cheeses and top with the roasted peppers and sautéed vegetables.
Bake: Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve: Serve immediately with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.
Spicy Queso Flameado Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped
1/2 pound spicy chorizo, cooked
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
Tortillas for serving
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook Chorizo: Brown the spicy chorizo in a skillet and set aside.
Mix Cheese and Spices: In a mixing bowl, combine the cheeses with cayenne pepper and hot sauce.
Assemble and Bake: Layer the cheese mixture in an oven-safe dish and top with chorizo and jalapeños. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
Serve Hot: Serve with tortillas or chips.
Seafood Queso Flameado Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded
1 cup queso fresco, crumbled
1/2 pound cooked shrimp, diced
1/4 cup crab meat
1/2 small red onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Cilantro for garnish
Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
Prepare Seafood: Sauté shrimp with garlic and lime juice in a skillet. Add crab meat and mix well.
Assemble Dish: In an oven-safe dish, layer the cheeses and top with the seafood mixture.
Bake: Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle cilantro on top and serve with tortilla chips.
Vegan Queso Flameado Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups vegan mozzarella-style cheese
1/2 cup vegan cheddar-style cheese
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
1 small onion, diced
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Warm tortillas for serving
Instructions:
Prepare Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, onions, and roasted red peppers with smoked paprika and garlic powder.
Layer Ingredients: In an oven-safe dish, layer the vegan cheeses and top with the sautéed vegetables.
Bake: Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
Serve: Serve hot with warm tortillas.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Queso Flameado
Choose the Right Cheese: Opt for cheeses that melt well, like Monterrey Jack, mozzarella, or Oaxaca.
Pre-Cook Toppings: Ensure all toppings are cooked before layering to prevent excess moisture.
Serve Immediately: Queso flameado is best enjoyed hot and gooey.
Experiment with Flavors: Add unique ingredients like pineapple, bacon, or black beans for creative twists.
Flambé Safely: If flambéing, use a long lighter and keep flammable items away.
Conclusion
Queso flameado is a delightful dish that showcases the perfect blend of melted cheese and savory toppings. Whether you stick to traditional recipes or explore innovative variations, this dish is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to the irresistible charm of queso flameado. Enjoy!
