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Savory Smoked Brisket Queso Fundido

savory smoked brisket queso fundido - featured image

A rich and comforting queso fundido featuring smoky brisket and a blend of melted cheeses with crispy edges, perfect for game days or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup smoked brisket, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella as a substitute)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the minced jalapeño and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until onions are translucent but not browned.
  4. Stir in the chopped smoked brisket and cook for about 2 minutes to warm through. Season with salt and black pepper.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, and sharp white cheddar cheeses and toss to mix evenly.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat. Evenly sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the brisket and aromatics, then add the rest of the cheese on top.
  7. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and edges are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove skillet from oven carefully. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle chopped cilantro.
  9. Serve hot immediately with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas.

Notes

Use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet for best crispy edges. Watch cheese closely to avoid burning. For a vegetarian version, substitute brisket with sautéed mushrooms or roasted poblano peppers. Let queso rest 1-2 minutes before serving for easier scooping. Can broil 1-2 minutes for extra browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso fundido, smoked brisket, melted cheese, appetizer, game day snack, cast iron skillet, crispy edges, Mexican cheese dip