Roasted Corn Queso Fundido

A Melted Cheese Dream with a Sweet and Smoky Twist

Get ready for a cheesy experience that’s equal parts rich, smoky, and absolutely irresistible—Roasted Corn Queso Fundido! This dish is everything you crave in a cheesy dip: it’s gooey, creamy, and packed with smoky, roasted corn that brings both sweetness and depth. The best part? It’s so simple to make but feels indulgent enough to impress at any gathering. Picture this: a bubbling, melted cheese base with charred corn, all topped with a little cilantro and lime for the perfect balance of flavors. Trust me, this will be your new favorite party dip, and you’ll be craving it long after the party’s over!

Whether you’re snacking on it with a handful of tortilla chips or scooping it up with fresh veggies, this Roasted Corn Queso Fundido is sure to hit the spot every time. It’s easy, it’s comforting, and it’s downright delicious. What’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love Roasted Corn Queso Fundido

Cheese Lovers’ Paradise: The melted cheese is rich and smooth, with just the right amount of gooey goodness to keep you coming back for more.
Sweet and Smoky Corn: Roasting the corn gives it a slightly smoky flavor that adds complexity and sweetness to the dish.
Easy and Quick: The whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic last-minute appetizer or snack.
Perfect for Sharing: This dip is made for crowds! It’s the ultimate shareable dish—ideal for parties, game nights, or just a fun family night.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the heat level to your liking by adding more or fewer chili peppers. Want it extra spicy? Throw in some hot sauce or jalapeños!
Flavorful Toppings: A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro take this queso fundido to the next level.

Ingredients in Roasted Corn Queso Fundido

It’s all about simple ingredients here, but each one packs a punch when combined. Here’s what you’ll need:

Corn

Fresh corn is ideal for roasting, but frozen or canned corn works just as well. The roasting gives it a lovely smoky flavor that makes this dish extra special.

Cheese

A combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Oaxaca cheese creates that perfectly melty, creamy base. Feel free to mix and match according to what you have on hand!

Garlic

A bit of garlic adds a fragrant depth of flavor that melds beautifully with the cheese.

Onion

Caramelized onions bring a touch of sweetness, balancing out the richness of the cheese and the smokiness of the corn.

Chili Peppers

Diced chili peppers (like jalapeños or serranos) add a bit of heat, but you can control how spicy you want the dish by adjusting the amount.

Butter

A little butter is used to sauté the onions and garlic, making everything rich and flavorful.

Lime

A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end helps cut through the richness and adds a refreshing citrus note.

Cilantro

Chopped cilantro gives the dish a fresh, herby finish and a pop of color.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Roast the Corn

Start by roasting your corn. If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, you can roast it in the oven or grill it until it’s nice and charred. If you’re using frozen or canned corn, simply toss it in a hot skillet with a bit of butter to get some nice charring on it.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, melt a bit of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and caramelizes (about 5-7 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for another minute or two until it becomes fragrant.

Melt the Cheese

Add the shredded cheese to the skillet with the onion and garlic mixture. Stir it gently as it melts into a creamy, luscious mixture. If the cheese is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to make it extra smooth.

Combine the Ingredients

Once the cheese is melted and smooth, stir in the roasted corn and chili peppers. Mix everything together, ensuring the corn and cheese are well combined. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Add Final Touches

Squeeze some fresh lime juice into the queso, then sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness and color.

Serve Hot

Transfer your queso to a serving dish and serve immediately while it’s nice and hot. Serve it with chips, tortillas, or even fresh veggies for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Roasted Corn Queso Fundido

• With Chips: Tortilla chips are the classic pairing, perfect for dipping into that creamy, cheesy goodness.
• On Tacos or Nachos: This queso is fantastic as a topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos.
• With Veggies: Try pairing it with fresh, crunchy veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber for a healthier dip option.
• On a Hot Skillet: Serve it in a sizzling cast-iron skillet to keep it warm and bubbling while everyone digs in.
• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a comforting, cheesy side dish.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Smokiness: If you really want to boost the smoky flavor, sprinkle in a little smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of chili peppers or throw in some hot sauce for extra heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheese and butter for a dairy-free version of this dish.
• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh, in-season corn really makes this dish shine, but frozen corn will work just fine too.
• Boost Creaminess: For an even richer texture, mix in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the corn and cheese mixture in advance, then reheat it before serving.

Q2: Can I use frozen corn?
A2: Yes! Just be sure to roast or char the corn in a skillet to bring out its smoky flavor.

Q3: What can I dip in queso fundido besides chips?
A3: You can dip fresh veggies, sliced baguette, or even crispy pita chips for a fun twist!

Q4: How can I make this dish spicier?
A4: Add more chili peppers, a dash of hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to crank up the heat.

Q5: Can I freeze leftover queso fundido?
A5: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Just know the texture may change when reheated.

Q6: Can I use a different cheese?
A6: Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gouda, fontina, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Q7: How do I reheat leftovers?
A7: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore the creamy texture.

Q8: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A8: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian! If you’re looking for a vegan version, just swap the cheese and butter for plant-based alternatives.

Q9: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A9: Yes, you can melt the cheese and keep the dip warm in a slow cooker. Just add the ingredients and cook on low until everything is melted and creamy.

Q10: What else can I serve this with?
A10: You can serve it with tacos, grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. It’s versatile and delicious!

In Conclusion

Roasted Corn Queso Fundido is the kind of dish that brings people together—warm, cheesy, and packed with smoky flavors. It’s easy to make and even easier to eat, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. So, gather your friends, grab your chips, and enjoy this melty masterpiece!

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