Get ready to indulge in a world of rich, velvety cheeses! From classic comfort foods to elegant dinner party fare, we’ve gathered 20 creamy cheese recipes that are sure to satisfy any cheesy craving. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to impress.
From creamy pasta bakes to gooey grilled cheeses, decadent dips to rich casserole, we’ve got the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings. And with a range of flavors and textures to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something that suits your taste buds. So go ahead, get creative, and let the cheese flow!
Classic Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
Classic Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
This comforting dish is a staple of comfort food at its finest, featuring a creamy macaroni and cheese sauce topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp 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 and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in milk, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer macaroni mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Get ready to impress your friends with this rich and flavorful dip that combines the best of three worlds – spinach, artichokes, and cheese!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until well combined.
3. Add shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and feta cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gooey Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and indulgent baked brie, perfectly balanced by sweet honey and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the honey.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the walnuts.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the brie is melted and slightly puffed.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Transform your snack time with these crispy and cheesy mozzarella sticks, served with a tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together shredded mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and garlic powder.
2. Add the beaten egg to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Dip each piece of bread into the cheese mixture, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the mozzarella sticks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
A delicious and easy-to-make bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. This cheesy garlic pull-apart bread is infused with the flavors of roasted garlic and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package of Rhodes frozen dinner rolls, thawed
– 3 cloves of garlic, roasted and minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Roll out the thawed dinner rolls into a 12-inch long rope.
3. Spread the roasted garlic and softened butter evenly along the length of the rope, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
4. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the garlic and butter mixture.
5. Roll the rope tightly, starting from one end. Cut the roll into 12-15 equal pieces.
6. Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crispy bacon bits, diced scallions, or chopped chives for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot with butter, cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
6. Garnish with crispy bacon bits, diced scallions, or chopped chives for added flavor and texture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheese (American, cheddar, or mozzarella work well)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato soup ingredients (see below)
Tomato Soup Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Place one slice, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add cheese on top of the bread.
4. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Flip the sandwich and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve with tomato soup (simmer chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and heavy cream in a pot over low heat).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice and milk. Stir until well combined.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the rice mixture, followed by the broccoli, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat the layers: rice, broccoli, and cheese.
6. Top with crushed crackers (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Garlic Butter
A flavorful and aromatic chicken dish that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the crispiness of a buttery crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese and garlic.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the cheese mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dot the top of each breast with softened butter.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Four-Cheese Lasagna with Fresh Basil
This classic Italian dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of creamy cheeses and fragrant basil. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in, this lasagna is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread a thin layer of bechamel sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Parmesan
A classic Italian dish that never goes out of style, this creamy fettuccine alfredo with parmesan is a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers Wrapped in Bacon
These bite-sized treats combine the perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and smoky flavors. Crunchy bacon wraps around a creamy jalapeño popper filling, making for an addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeños
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems and carefully slice open each jalapeño, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and cilantro.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheesy mixture, filling to the top.
5. Wrap a slice of bacon around each popper, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cheese and Pear Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with the sweet and savory combination of blue cheese and pear. This recipe is perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together blue cheese, pear, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the blue cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère
Elevate your potato game with this rich and creamy side dish, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and butter. Toss until potatoes are well coated.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of potatoes. Top with Gruyère cheese and a drizzle of heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 two more times, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the nutrients of fresh spinach, all wrapped up in tender shells. This recipe makes 12-15 stuffed shells perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa
A flavorful fusion of Mexican-inspired comfort food and fresh, creamy avocado goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken or beans (optional)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add chopped chicken or beans (if using) and fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese starts to melt.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also lightly browned.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make three more quesadillas.
7. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
8. Serve quesadillas hot with Avocado Salsa on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Camembert with Rosemary and Garlic
Elevate your entertaining game with this rich and aromatic baked camembert recipe, infused with the piney flavor of rosemary and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of Camembert cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Place the Camembert wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over the top of the cheese.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is softened and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pimento Cheese Spread with Crackers
A classic Southern favorite, this pimento cheese spread is a simple and satisfying snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup pimentos, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt to taste
– Crackers (such as Ritz or saltines), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and chopped pimentos.
2. Add the paprika and salt to taste; mix until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled with crackers.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Enjoy your delicious Pimento Cheese Spread with Crackers!
Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin with Breadcrumbs
This rich and creamy gratin is a perfect side dish or main course for a cozy dinner party. With the addition of crispy breadcrumbs, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked cauliflower in an even layer. Sprinkle with the cheese mixture.
5. Top with panko breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Cheese and Mushroom Quiche
A classic quiche recipe with the creamy richness of Swiss cheese and earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and grated Swiss cheese.
5. Arrange the mushroom mixture evenly over the pie crust, then pour in the egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy cheesy goodness! This collection of 20 recipes features an array of dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches, to more innovative creations like cheesy jalapeño poppers and blue cheese stuffed chicken, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and creamy pasta dish or a satisfying snack, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, get creative, and let the cheesiness begin!
