When it comes to comforting, indulgent dishes that satisfy our cravings, there’s one ingredient that always takes center stage: cheese. Whether melted, baked, or spread, creamy cheese adds a richness and depth to any recipe that’s hard to beat. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of cheese in all its forms. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to innovative twists on familiar favorites, these creamy cheese recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. So grab your mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in some serious cheesy goodness!
Classic Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that never goes out of style, this macaroni and cheese recipe is a staple in many households. With its creamy sauce and al dente pasta, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, then bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Three-Cheese Spinach Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian-American dish gets a creamy twist with the addition of spinach and three types of cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with marinara sauce and additional grated mozzarella cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
Elevate your gatherings with this sweet and savory baked brie, perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Roll out the brie cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the brie, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and garlic powder evenly over the honey.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheddar and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines the richness of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or portobello)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled bacon, grated cheddar cheese, and softened butter until well combined.
3. Add minced garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bacon-cheddar mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goat Cheese and Herb Omelette
A delicate and flavorful omelette filled with creamy goat cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in egg mixture and cook until edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
4. Sprinkle goat cheese, parsley, chives, and garlic powder (if using) onto half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds or until cheese is melted and eggs are fully set.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan crusted recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious dinner in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blue Cheese and Pear Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory flatbread combination featuring creamy blue cheese and tender pears.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made or homemade flatbread (about 12 inches in diameter)
– 2 tablespoons of blue cheese crumbles
– 1 ripe pear, sliced into thin wedges
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly toasted.
3. Remove the flatbread from the oven and top with blue cheese crumbles.
4. Arrange the pear slices on top of the blue cheese.
5. Drizzle honey over the pears and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ricotta and Lemon Pancakes
Start your day with a bright and citrusy twist on traditional pancakes! These Ricotta and Lemon Pancakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with confectioners’ sugar dusting (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this indulgent twist: a generous helping of melted mozzarella cheese inside each juicy ball. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin strips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Make a small indentation in the center of each ball.
4. Place a mozzarella strip inside each meatball, then close the opening and reshape the ball.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gouda and Caramelized Onion Grilled Cheese
This classic grilled cheese sandwich gets a sweet and savory twist with the addition of caramelized onions and creamy Gouda cheese. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 2 slices of Gouda cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with caramelized onions, Gouda cheese, and another bread slice (buttered side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Feta and Spinach Phyllo Triangles
A flavorful and savory pastry filled with tangy feta cheese and fresh spinach, perfect as an appetizer or snack. This recipe yields 12-15 triangles that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for brushing phyllo)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, spinach, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush with some olive oil (if using).
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the feta mixture onto one half of the phyllo.
6. Fold the other half over to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and place triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swiss Cheese Fondue
Experience the classic charm of Switzerland with this creamy, cheesy fondue recipe. Perfect for social gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated Emmental cheese (or Swiss-style cheddar)
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine Emmental and Gruyère cheese.
2. Add the white wine, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the fondue reaches a simmering temperature (around 120°F to 130°F).
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until fully incorporated.
5. Serve immediately with bread, vegetables, or meats for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pepper Jack Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and spicy quesadillas packed with melted pepper jack cheese, savory sausage, and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast sausage), crumbled
– 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and diced bell peppers.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the sausage mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (4 quesadillas)
Cream Cheese Frosted Red Velvet Cupcakes
These rich and decadent cupcakes combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Cream cheese frosting ingredients (see below)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Beat in eggs, red food coloring, and buttermilk.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting (beat softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Halloumi and Vegetable Skewers
A flavorful and colorful vegetarian option perfect for a summer BBQ or as a healthy snack. This recipe combines the salty, creamy halloumi cheese with an assortment of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into large chunks
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into large chunks
– 1 onion, cut into wedges
– 2 zucchinis, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread the halloumi pieces, bell peppers, onion, and zucchinis onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Provolone and Roasted Pepper Panini
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying panini recipe, featuring melted Provolone cheese and roasted peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of Provolone cheese, sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, roasted and sliced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place a slice of Provolone cheese on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Add roasted peppers on top of the cheese.
5. Place the remaining bread slices, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per panini
Camembert and Cranberry Bites
Elevate your party game with these bite-sized treats that combine the creamy richness of Camembert cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberries. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these bites are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of Camembert cheese
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into small squares, about 2 inches per side.
4. Place a small spoonful of Camembert cheese in the center of each square.
5. Top with a few cranberries and drizzle with honey.
6. Sprinkle thyme and salt over the top.
7. Fold pastry squares in half to form triangles, pressing edges to seal.
8. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden glaze.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pimento Cheese Spread
This classic Southern spread is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, sweet pimentos, and tangy spices. It’s great on crackers, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pimentos (green olives work too)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add grated cheddar cheese, chopped pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and serve.
Gruyère and Potato Gratin
This rich and comforting side dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a accompaniment to your favorite roasted meats. With its velvety Gruyère sauce and tender potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups (375ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (120g) Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine sliced potatoes, butter, and flour. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are slightly tender.
3. In a separate pot, warm the milk over low heat.
4. Gradually add the warmed milk to the potato mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Burrata and Tomato Salad
Fresh mozzarella, creamy burrata cheese, and juicy tomatoes come together in this simple yet flavorful salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the mozzarella slices on a serving plate or platter.
2. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and place them on top of the mozzarella.
3. Scatter the diced tomatoes over the cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy cheese delights! This collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes showcases the versatility of cheese in dishes perfect for every occasion. From comforting classics like mac and cheese to elegant appetizers like baked brie, there’s something for everyone. Try stuffed shells with three cheeses, gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, or savory meatballs filled with mozzarella. And don’t forget sweet treats like cream cheese frosted cupcakes! With these recipes, you’ll be the star of any gathering.
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