Chili Con Queso Fondue

Name: Chili Con Queso Fondue
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterrey Jack cheese; 1 can (15 oz) chili (with beans or without, your choice); 1 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

When it comes to party foods, nothing gets me more excited than a bubbling pot of Chili Con Queso Fondue. Combining spicy chili flavors with cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for dipping and sharing. I remember the first time I made it for friends, and the reactions were priceless. It’s so easy to whip up, and the creamy, cheesy texture makes it an instant hit. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something indulgent, this fondue is sure to please.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:26:31.219Z

I vividly recall the first time I made Chili Con Queso Fondue; it was a game-changer for my gatherings. I tried many recipes, but combining the right spices with a blend of cheeses created an experience that was both satisfying and memorable. The secret is simmering the chili just enough to deepen the flavors before adding the cheese, which really elevates the dish.

Another key tip is to use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the melting and texture. Once I switched to fresh cheese, the fondue became irresistibly creamy and smooth.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy cheese flavor balanced with spicy chili kick
Perfectly melts for an irresistible dipping experience
Great for sharing at gatherings or cozy nights in

      

Mastering the Cheese Blend

When creating the perfect fondue, the choice of cheese is vital. Sharp cheddar brings a bold and tangy flavor, while Monterey Jack offers a smooth creaminess. Using a mix of these cheeses allows for a rich depth of flavor and a wonderfully gooey texture. It's essential to grate the cheese before adding it to the mixture, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.

To achieve the best melt, ensure that your heat is medium-low. If you rush the melting process on high heat, you risk separating the fats from the cheese, leading to a grainy texture. Stir continuously until the cheese is glossy and completely melted, keeping an eye out for any clumping. The fondue should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.

Chili Choices and Flavor Enhancements

While the recipe calls for a standard canned chili, experimenting with different styles can elevate the dish. Opt for a chili with bold spices or even a smoky variant for an added layer of flavor. Vegetarian chilis can also be a great substitute if you're looking for a meat-free option without sacrificing taste. Just make sure the consistency is similar, as a thin chili will affect the fondue's texture.

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. These additions can tailor the heat level to your preferences. Don't forget that spices like cumin and garlic powder amplify the flavors, so adjust these seasonings according to your taste without overshadowing the cheese.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Chili Con Queso Fondue.

Ingredients

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterrey Jack cheese
1 can (15 oz) chili (with beans or without, your choice)
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to prepare the fondue!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Chili Con Queso Fondue.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk and flour, whisking until smooth. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterrey Jack cheese, allowing it to melt completely.

Add the Chili and Spices

Once the cheese is melted and creamy, stir in the canned chili, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the mixture to a fondue pot or a heat-safe serving bowl. Serve warm with tortilla chips or vegetables for dipping. Enjoy!

With these steps, you can indulge in a comforting and delicious fondue experience.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.

Serving Suggestions

To make your fondue experience even more delightful, consider serving a variety of dippers. Besides classic tortilla chips, fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and celery make for a crunchy and healthy option. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing with soft pretzel bites or even chunks of crusty bread to scoop up the cheesy goodness.

A key to keeping your fondue fluid and enjoyable is to keep it warm during serving. A small candle or a fondue pot on low heat can maintain the creamy texture. If it starts to thicken, you can always add a splash of milk to keep it velvety, ensuring every dip stays satisfying.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re planning ahead for a gathering, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance. Combine the melted cheese and chili ingredients, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just before serving, reheat gently on the stove at low heat, stirring frequently to restore that smooth texture. Adding a touch more milk can help bring it back to life if it thickens too much during storage.

Leftovers can be a blessing, but ensure to store any remaining fondue in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be consumed within 3 days. Reheat the leftovers using a double boiler method to prevent scorching, or slowly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth and creamy again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat over low heat before serving.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, bread cubes, or pretzels all make excellent dippers for the fondue.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it primarily consists of cheese and beans.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cheeses like Gouda, Pepper Jack, or Gruyère for varied flavors.