Queso Fundido Con Chorizo Empanadas Recipe
Introduction
Queso Fundido Con Chorizo Empanadas are a delicious blend of spicy chorizo and melted cheese wrapped in golden, flaky dough. This comforting dish is perfect for a snack or appetizer, bringing bold flavors in every bite.

Ingredients
- 1 cup chorizo, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Oaxaca or mozzarella)
- Empanada dough, enough for 8-10 empanadas
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the chorizo in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix the cooked chorizo with shredded cheese until well combined.
- Step 3: Roll out the empanada dough and cut into circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Step 4: Place a spoonful of the chorizo and cheese mixture onto the center of each dough circle.
- Step 5: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, using a fork to crimp if desired.
- Step 6: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Step 7: Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped onions or roasted peppers to the filling.
- You can substitute the cheese with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a sharper taste.
- Brush the empanadas with an egg wash before baking for a shiny, golden crust.
Storage
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the empanadas and freeze them before baking. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What type of cheese works best for queso fundido?
Oaxaca cheese is traditional for queso fundido because it melts well and has a mild flavor, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack are good alternatives.
PrintQueso Fundido Con Chorizo Empanadas Recipe
Queso Fundido Con Chorizo Empanadas are a delicious Mexican-inspired appetizer featuring savory chorizo and melted cheese stuffed inside golden, baked empanada dough pockets. These empanadas are perfect for parties or a flavorful snack, combining spicy chorizo and creamy cheese with a crunchy, flaky crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 oz Mexican chorizo
- 1 ½ cups shredded Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional: chopped cilantro or green chilies for extra flavor
Empanada Dough
- 12 empanada dough disks (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Cook the Chorizo: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo, breaking it up into small pieces, until fully cooked and browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Chorizo and Cheese: In a bowl, combine the cooked chorizo with shredded cheese to create the filling mixture. Optionally, add chopped cilantro or green chilies for extra flavor.
- Fill the Empanada Dough: Place a spoonful of the chorizo and cheese mixture onto the center of each empanada dough disk. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to help them brown beautifully during baking.
- Bake the Empanadas: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve Warm: Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set a bit. Enjoy warm as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Ensure the chorizo is fully cooked before mixing with cheese to avoid greasy empanadas.
- You can use store-bought empanada dough for convenience or make your own for freshness.
- Adjust the type of cheese based on availability; a good melting cheese like Oaxaca or Monterey Jack is ideal.
- Serve with salsa or guacamole for added flavor.
- These empanadas can be frozen unbaked and baked later, increasing cooking time by a few minutes.
Keywords: queso fundido, chorizo empanadas, Mexican appetizer, baked empanadas, cheesy chorizo snacks

