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Air Fryer Queso Fundido - Gooey, Cheesy, and Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces Oaxaca or low-moisture mozzarella, shredded
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack or pepper jack, shredded
  • 4 ounces Chihuahua or mild white cheddar, shredded
  • 6 ounces Mexican chorizo (casings removed), optional
  • 1/2 small white onion, finely diced
  • 1 small poblano or jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (jalapeño for spicier)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (if using vegetables without chorizo)
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk or crema, optional, for extra creaminess
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Warm corn or flour tortillas, tortilla chips, or sliced veggies, for serving
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes so the basket and air are hot when the cheese goes in.
  2. Cook the chorizo (if using): In a small skillet over medium heat, cook chorizo until browned and crumbled, 5–7 minutes. No extra oil needed. Drain excess fat on a paper towel.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan (with a tiny bit of chorizo fat or 1 tablespoon oil), cook onion and poblano/jalapeño until softened, 3–4 minutes. Add garlic for the last 30 seconds. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Combine cheeses: In a bowl, toss all shredded cheeses. If you like extra creaminess, mix in 1–2 tablespoons milk or crema.
  5. Assemble: Use a small, oven-safe dish that fits your air fryer (6–7 inches across, 1–2 inches deep). Layer half the cheese, then the chorizo and aromatics, then the rest of the cheese. Press gently to level.
  6. Air fry: Place the dish in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–10 minutes. Start checking at 6 minutes. It’s ready when the cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and lightly browned at the edges.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with cilantro. Serve immediately with warm tortillas or chips. Use a spoon to scoop—this is a stretchy dip, not a pourable sauce.
  8. Keep it melty: If it firms up as you eat, pop it back in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to re-melt.