Touchdown Taste: Our Most Saved Super Bowl Appetizer Recipe!

Super Bowl season is upon us, and that means one thing: it’s time to start planning the ultimate game-day spread! While the commercials and the game itself are undoubtedly exciting, let’s be honest, the food is a major highlight for many. We’ve all been there – gathered around the TV, cheering on our favorite team, with a table overflowing with delicious appetizers.

Over the years, we’ve experimented with countless Super Bowl recipes, searching for that perfect combination of flavor, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal. After much testing (and many happy taste testers!), we’ve finally found a winner – and it’s become a true fan favorite, consistently ranking as our most saved and shared appetizer!

So, what is this magical appetizer that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of so many Super Bowl viewers? Drumroll, please… It’s our **Spicy Chorizo and Queso Fundido Dip with Homemade Tortilla Chips!**

This dip is the perfect blend of savory, spicy, and cheesy goodness. The chorizo adds a depth of flavor and a satisfying kick, while the queso fundido creates a creamy, gooey base that’s simply irresistible. And the homemade tortilla chips? They take this appetizer to the next level, adding a delightful crunch and a touch of homemade love.

But don’t just take our word for it – try it yourself! We’re confident that this Spicy Chorizo and Queso Fundido Dip will become a Super Bowl staple in your household, too. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the oven (or stovetop!), and get ready to score big with this winning appetizer recipe.

## Spicy Chorizo and Queso Fundido Dip with Homemade Tortilla Chips: The Recipe

This recipe is divided into two parts: the homemade tortilla chips and the chorizo queso fundido dip. Don’t be intimidated by the two components – both are surprisingly easy to make, and the results are well worth the effort!

**Part 1: Homemade Tortilla Chips**

Homemade tortilla chips are far superior to store-bought versions. They’re fresher, crispier, and you can control the salt content. Plus, the act of making them is surprisingly therapeutic!

**Ingredients:**

* 12 corn tortillas (fresh is best)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt)
* Optional: chili powder, cumin, or other spices for seasoning

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the chips from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. **Cut the Tortillas:** Stack the tortillas on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each tortilla into 6 wedges. Think of it like slicing a pie.

3. **Toss with Oil and Seasoning:** In a large bowl, toss the tortilla wedges with the olive oil. Make sure each chip is lightly coated with oil. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven. Sprinkle the sea salt (and any other desired spices) over the chips and toss again to distribute evenly. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!

4. **Arrange on Baking Sheets:** Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Avoid overcrowding the sheets, as this will prevent the chips from getting crispy. If necessary, bake in batches.

5. **Bake to Perfection:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chips are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.

6. **Cool and Store:** Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the chips cool completely on the baking sheets. As they cool, they will crisp up even more. Once cooled, store the tortilla chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, we doubt they’ll last that long!

**Alternative Frying Method (for extra crispy chips):**

1. **Heat the Oil:** Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.

2. **Fry in Batches:** Carefully add a handful of tortilla wedges to the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot.

3. **Drain and Season:** Remove the fried tortilla chips with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with sea salt (and any other desired spices).

4. **Cool and Store:** Let the chips cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

**Part 2: Spicy Chorizo and Queso Fundido Dip**

This is where the magic happens! The chorizo and queso combination is a flavor explosion that will leave your guests wanting more.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound Mexican chorizo, removed from casing
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
* 1 (12-ounce) bottle or can of Mexican beer (such as Modelo or Corona)
* 1 pound Oaxaca cheese, shredded (or a combination of Oaxaca and Monterey Jack)
* 4 ounces Chihuahua cheese, shredded (or another good melting cheese)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
* Lime wedges, for serving

**Equipment:**

* Oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal, but any oven-safe skillet will work)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven (Optional):** If you’re using an oven-safe skillet, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help the cheese melt evenly. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can prepare the dip on the stovetop and then transfer it to a baking dish for the final melting step.

2. **Cook the Chorizo:** In a large oven-safe skillet (or a regular skillet if you plan to transfer to a baking dish), cook the chorizo over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the chorizo is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy dip!

3. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño (if using) to the skillet with the cooked chorizo. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The aromas at this stage are simply divine!

4. **Deglaze with Beer:** Pour the Mexican beer into the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – these are packed with flavor! Let the beer simmer for a few minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld together. This step adds a depth of flavor that you won’t get without it.

5. **Add the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheeses to the skillet, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Be patient and stir continuously to prevent the cheese from burning or clumping. The mixture should be gooey and stretchy – that’s how you know it’s ready!

6. **Bake (Optional):** If you preheated the oven, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This step is optional, but it adds a nice visual appeal to the dip.

7. **Garnish and Serve:** Remove the skillet from the oven (or stovetop). Garnish the dip with chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately with the homemade tortilla chips (or your favorite store-bought chips). Don’t forget the lime wedges for a squeeze of fresh citrus!

**Stovetop Only Method:**

If you don’t want to use the oven, you can prepare the entire dip on the stovetop. Follow steps 1-5 as described above. Once the cheese is melted, simply keep the dip warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Garnish and serve as directed.

## Tips and Variations for the Perfect Super Bowl Dip

* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to control the spice level of the dip. For a milder dip, omit the jalapeño altogether. For a spicier dip, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* **Cheese Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a bit of sharp cheddar can add interesting flavors to the dip.
* **Meat Options:** If you’re not a fan of chorizo, you can substitute it with ground beef, ground turkey, or shredded chicken. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the dip.
* **Vegetarian Option:** For a vegetarian version, omit the chorizo and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or black beans. You can also add a can of diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
* **Slow Cooker Option:** This dip can also be made in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and smooth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can prepare the dip ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Simply store the cooked chorizo and vegetable mixture in the refrigerator until ready to use. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a skillet or microwave, then add the cheese and melt as directed.
* **Serving Suggestions:** In addition to tortilla chips, this dip is also delicious with vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers), crackers, or even toasted baguette slices.
* **Garnish Galore:** Get creative with your garnishes! In addition to cilantro and lime wedges, you can also add chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or guacamole.

## Why This Dip is a Super Bowl Winner

This Spicy Chorizo and Queso Fundido Dip is more than just a delicious appetizer – it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to be a hit at your Super Bowl party. Here’s why:

* **Flavor Bomb:** The combination of spicy chorizo, savory vegetables, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks. The instructions are clear and straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available.
* **Crowd-Pleasing Appeal:** This dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Everyone loves a good cheesy dip, and the addition of chorizo adds a unique and delicious twist.
* **Versatile:** This recipe is highly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the spice level, change the cheeses, or add different types of meat or vegetables.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** This dip is perfect for sharing with friends and family. It’s a great way to bring people together and enjoy the Super Bowl festivities.

## Make This Super Bowl Memorable!

This Super Bowl, skip the same old boring appetizers and impress your guests with our Spicy Chorizo and Queso Fundido Dip! With its incredible flavor, easy preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal, this dip is sure to be a touchdown. So gather your ingredients, put on your game face, and get ready to score big with this winning recipe! We’re confident that this will be the most delicious and memorable Super Bowl yet! Go Team! (and Go Delicious Food!)

Enjoy the game, and most importantly, enjoy the food!

Bon appétit!