50 Great Cheesy Recipes

Transcription

1 50 Great Cheesy Recipes

2 Cheddar Recipes Classic Cheese Fondue Serves 4-6 ½ oz butter 1 clove garlic 1 cup dry white wine 2 cups grated Swiss Cheese 2 cups grated Sharp Cheddar 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Rub the butter over the bottom of a saucepan. Cut the clove of garlic in half and rub over the pan. Add the wine and heat gently just to boiling point. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheeses, one cup at a time until melted. Transfer fondue to warmed fondue pot and serve immediately with crusty bread cubes, breadsticks, small cooked potatoes or vegetables. Notes: Keep the fondue hot but don t allow it to boil. A teaspoon of cornflour or potato flour can be added to the wine to thicken the fondue. It is possible to add some herbs and/or spices at the end of cooking for different flavors. Extra Sharp Cheddar, Super Sharp Cheddar, Gouda. Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 2

3 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cheese Souffle Serves 5-6 ¼ cup butter ¼ cup flour 1 ½ cups milk 3 cups grated Super Sharp Cheddar 1 tsp salt 1 tsp dry mustard ½ tsp dry mustard 6 eggs, separated Preheat oven to 425F. Butter and flour a 2 quart soufflé dish. Melt butter in saucepan over low heat. Blend in flour until smooth. Add milk gradually while stirring until mixture thickens. Stir in cheese and seasonings. When cheese is melted, remove from heat. Beat in egg yolks one at a time. Beat egg whites until stiff and fold through mixture. Pour mixture into prepared dish and bake for 25 minutes. Serve immediately. Sharp Cheddar, Extra Sharp Cheddar, Swiss Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 3

4 Jalapeno Cheese Biscuits 6 oz flour 3 oz butter, cubed or grated 3 oz grated Jalapeno Cheddar 2 tbsp water 1 egg yolk Pinch cayenne 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Preheat oven to 425F and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper. Combine the flour with the cayenne in a bowl. Add the butter and rub in to the flour mixture with fingertips until crumbly. Add the cheese and mix well. Beat egg yolk and water together well. Add to the bowl and mix well until it is a smooth but fairly stiff dough. Roll the dough out thinly and cut with a biscuit cutter. Place onto baking tray and prick biscuits with a fork. Bake in oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve hot or cold. Notes: The dough can be cut into any shape. Narrow straws is also a good option. Sharp Cheddar, Extra Sharp Cheddar, Colby Jack Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 4

5 Fast Chili Cheddar Pasta Serves 4 8oz packet of fettuccine 1 ½ cups grated Sharp Cheddar 1/3 cup chili sauce 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cook fettuccine in boiling salted water until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and return to pan. Add cheese, sauce and seasoning to taste. Toss well until the cheese has melted. Serve immediately. Notes: Any type of chili sauce can be used so pick a personal favorite. Alternatively try tomato sauce. Spaghetti or macaroni pasta can be used instead of fettuccine. Mild Cheddar, Extra Sharp Cheddar, Super Sharp Cheddar, Jalapeno Cheddar, Colby Jack Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 5

6 Basic Cheese Sauce 3 tbsp butter ¼ cup flour 2 cups milk ½ lb Extra Sharp Cheddar, grated 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Melt butter over low heat. Blend in flour and stir for 1 minute or until paste becomes foamy. Gradually add in milk and stir continuously until mixture thickens. Add cheese and stir until melted. Season to taste. Notes: This cheese sauce has many uses. Here are a few ideas: Use as a dressing for vegetables, particularly cauliflower and broccoli. Stir through pasta along with some cooked chicken or ham for a quick meal. Serve over sliced tomatoes and hard-boiled eggs on toast. Combine with tinned tuna or salmon and cooked vegetables, serve over rice. Any Cheddar, Colby Jack, Muenster, Gouda, Swiss Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 6

7 Potato and Cheese Balls 1 cup mashed potato ½ cup grated Sharp Cheddar 1 tsp chopped parsley Salt and pepper 1 egg, beaten 2 tbsp flour ¼ cup breadcrumbs Oil 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Warm the potato slightly in a saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese and parsley. Season to taste. If the mixture is a little dry, add a little of the beaten egg to help bind it. Take a small amount of mixture at a time and shape into a ball. Roll in flour, dip into egg then toss in breadcrumbs. Cover the base of a frying pan with oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the balls and cook until golden brown. Remove from pan and drain on paper towel. Serve. Notes: Don t use mashed potato that has had any butter or milk added. It should be potato only and quite dry. These are a great savory appetizer. For presentation and ease of serving push a toothpick into each ball before serving. Extra Sharp Cheddar, Super Sharp Cheddar, Colby Jack Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 7

8 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Pasticcio Serves 6 Ingredients 1 lb lasagna noodles 1 tbsp oil 2 medium onions, finely chopped 1 lb beef mince 1 medium tomato, peeled and chopped 2 oz butter 3 tbsp flour 2 cups milk ¾ cup grated Extra Sharp Cheddar 1 beaten egg Cook pasta in boiling water according to packet directions. Drain. Heat oil in pan and sauté onions until soft. Add mince and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Add tomato and season to taste. Continue to cook over low heat until meat is well cooked. Blend through ½ cup grated cheese. Place half lasagna sheets into a greased casserole dish. Pour over the meat mixture then top with the remaining sheets. Melt butter and blend in flour. Cook gently for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk stirring well. Continue stirring over low heat until mixture boils. Blend in cheese and egg. Season and pour over the pasta. Bake at 375F for minutes or until top is nicely browned. Serve. Sharp Cheddar, Super Sharp Cheddar Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 8

9 Vegetable and Cheese Soup Serves 4 1oz butter 1 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 8 oz potato, chopped 2 sticks celery, chopped 8 oz parsnip, chopped 8 oz carrots, chopped 4 cups vegetable stock 5 oz Extra Sharp Cheddar 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Heat the butter and oil in a large pan. Add the onion and sauté until soft and golden. Tip in all the other vegetables and stir. Season, cover and reduce the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, until vegetables are just tender. Add stock to the pan and bring to the boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Pour into a blender or food processor in batches and process until smooth. Return to the pan. Grate half the cheese, and cut the rest into cubes and stir through the soup until it just begins to melt. Stir in the mustard and season to taste. Serve with croutons and an extra sprinkle of cheese. Note: Croutons can be made by tossing bread cubes in oil and baking in a hot oven until crisp, minutes. Top with cheese halfway through cooking time if desired. Alternative Cheeses Sharp Cheddar, Super Sharp Cheddar, Horseradish Cheddar, Colby Jack Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 9

10 Cheddar Cheese Bowl Dip Serves cups plain yogurt 8 oz Sharp Cheddar, grated 2 tsps Dijon mustard 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley 2 tbsp finely chopped chives 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp lemon juice Pinch white pepper 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Combine all the ingredients in a bowl. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving. Serve with chilled vegetable pieces, crispy bread toasts and crackers. Notes: Mix and match the flavors in this dip by trying different cheese and herb combinations. Extra Sharp Cheddar, Horseradish Cheddar, Smoked Cheddar Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 10

11 Apple Cheese Betty Serves cups fresh breadcrumbs 1 ½ cups grated Mild Cheddar 1 tsp cinnamon ¾ cup sugar 6 large green apples ¼ cup water 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Preheat oven to 350F. Grease a 8 x 12 inch oven dish. Mix together breadcrumbs and cheese in a bowl. In a small bowl combine cinnamon and sugar. Peel, core and slice apples. Starting with apples, layer the apples, sugar and cheese into prepared dish. Finish with a layer of cheese. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and continue cooking for another minutes. Serve. Provolone, Cheddar Cheese Curds Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 11

12 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cheese Twisties Makes 20 2 sheets ready rolled puff pastry 1 egg, well beaten ½ cup finely grated Sharp Cheddar Preheat the oven to 450F. Line an oven tray with baking paper. Brush the first sheet of pastry lightly with the egg and sprinkle with cheese. Brush the second sheet of pastry lightly with egg and place over the cheese. Press the pastry sheets firmly together. Cut the pastry in half and then cut each half into wide strips (about 10 strips per half). Pick up each strip of pastry with both hands and twist before placing on prepared tray. Bake in oven for 10 minutes or until golden. Serve warm. Any Cheddar - including Flavored varieties, Muenster, Colby Jack, Swiss, Gouda Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 12

13 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Chili Cheese Roll Makes 40 8 oz Mild Cheddar cheese, grated 3 oz package cream cheese 1/8 tsp garlic powder ¼ cup chopped pecans 2 tbsp chili powder Allow cheeses to warm to room temperature. Mix both until well blended. Stir in garlic powder and pecans. Form into a roll about 10 inches long. Spread the chili powder on waxed paper and coat outside of the cheese roll by rolling it in the chili. Chill. Slice and serve with crackers or Melba toast. Sharp Cheddar, Flavored Cheddar, Colby Jack Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 13

14 Speedy Cheesy Herb Muffins Makes 12 2 cups all purpose flour 4 tsp baking powder 1 onion, finely chopped 1 cup milk 4 tbsp butter, melted 1 cup grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese 1 egg, well beaten 4 tbsp chopped herbs of choice 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Preheat oven to 390F. Lightly grease a 12 hole muffin pan or line with muffin cases. Sift flour and baking powder into bowl. Add remaining ingredients and mix until just combined. Place spoonfuls into prepared muffin tray. Bake for minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Stand in pan for 5 minutes, then cool on wire rack. Notes: Any fresh herbs can be used for these muffins. Try a combination of flavors. Alternative Cheeses Mild Cheddar, Flavored Cheddar, Colby Jack Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 14

15 Potted Herb Cheese Serves 2-4 ½ cup butter 1 tbsp dry sherry 1 tsp chopped parsley 2 ½ cups grated Sharp Cheddar cheese Pinch nutmeg Freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp finely chopped mixed fresh herbs 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cream butter and sherry until light and fluffy. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Spoon into a serving dish. Cover and chill until cheese is firm. Serve with crackers. Mild Cheddar, Flavored Cheddar, Smoked Cheddar Cheddar Cheese Recipes Page 15

16 Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Fried Cheese Curds 2lbs Cheddar Cheese Curds 1 cup all purpose flour 1 ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt 2 eggs, well beaten ½ cup milk 2 cups oil for frying Heat oil in large, heavy based skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Combine eggs and milk then add to the flour mixture. Beat well until a smooth. Take a handful of cheese curds and add to the batter, then remove with a slotted spoon and add carefully to the hot oil. Allow to cook for 1-2 minutes, turning if necessary. They should be golden brown. Remove from oil and place on paper towel to drain. Repeat with remaining curds. Serve immediately with favorite sauce. Notes: The milk can be replaced with beer for a lighter batter. Ensure there is enough batter covering the curds or they will melt in the pan. Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Page 16

17 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Poutine Serves 4 as a side 4 large potatoes, peeled Oil for frying Salt 2 cups beef stock ¼ cup butter ¼ cup flour 1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese Curds Cut the potatoes lengthwise into thick fries, around 1 cm thick. Soak them in ice water for up to 1 hour, drain well and pat dry. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or skillet to about 325F. Add potatoes in batches and fry for 3 minutes. Don t cook them until golden at this stage, they should change color only slightly. Remove from oil and drain on paper towel. Increase oil temperature to 375F. Pour stock into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Melt butter in another saucepan over low heat. Add flour and stir well for around 1 minute to produce a foamy paste. Increase heat to medium and slowly add beef stock. Stir continually until thickened, then reduce heat to a simmer and keep gravy warm. Cook fries in batches again. This time allow them to cook until golden brown, around 5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towel again. Salt to taste. Quickly assemble the Poutine while everything is hot. Layer fries and cheese curds then pour over the hot beef gravy. Serve immediately. Notes: The fries can be cut into shoestring shapes if preferred. Just alter the cooking time accordingly (they will cook faster). It is possible to vary the gravy mixture to give the Poutine a different flavor. Some options include the addition of onions, ground pepper or peppercorns. Alternatively, a chicken gravy or spaghetti sauce could be used. While homemade gravy is ideal (for best flavor and taste), store bought gravy can also be used. Similarly, while homemade fries are ideal, frozen fries could be substituted. Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Page 17

18 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Potato Gratin Serves 6 2 lb potatoes 1 clove garlic 2 cups milk 5 oz Provolone, grated 10 oz Cheddar Cheese curds Peel the potatoes and slice thinly. Rub a shallow ovenproof dish with the cut clove of garlic, then grease well. Arrange potato slices in the dish, overlapping slightly. Bring milk just to the boil, then reduce heat and stir through Provolone gradually. Stir until cheese is just melted. Season to taste. Pour over the potatoes and top with Cheddar Cheese curds. Bake in 375F oven for minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden. Flavored Cheddar Cheese curds Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Page 18

19 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Spicy Creamed Spinach with Cheese Curds Serves 6 1 tsp chopped fresh ginger 1 fresh hot green chili, seeded and minced 1 tsp ground coriander ½ tsp sweet paprika ½ tsp ground cumin ½ tsp turmeric 2 tsp oil 2 large bunches of spinach, washed, trimmed and chopped 4 tbsp cream ½ lb Cheddar Cheese Curds ½ tsp garam masala 1 tsp salt Steam spinach in a saucepan for 4-5 minutes or until wilted. Blend in a food processor until smooth. Set aside. Clean out processor and add chili and ginger. Blend with a few teaspoons of water. Add coriander, paprika, cumin and turmeric. Blend to a smooth paste. Heat oil over medium heat and add spice paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant. Fold through the spinach and cook for a further 3-4 minutes. Fold through cream, curds and garam masala. Cook for a further 5 minutes. Serve. Mozzarella Curds, Provolone Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Page 19

20 Rice with Cheddar and Curds Serves 4 12 oz long grain rice 5 oz Cheddar Cheese Curds 5 oz Super Sharp Cheddar, cut into small pieces 2 cups milk 6 tbsp butter 6 tbsp all-purpose flour ¾ cup cream Preheat oven to 350F. 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cook the rice in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain. Heat milk in a small pan over low heat. In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter, add flour and stir well. Gradually add hot milk stirring continuously. Add pieces of Super Sharp cheddar cheese gradually and season to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the cream. Place cheese curds in a bowl. Add drained rice and remaining butter. Mix well. Make a layer of rice in an ovenproof dish, cover with one-third of cheddar cheese sauce, add another layer of rice, followed by half the remaining cheddar cheese sauce, repeat for third time. Place dish in oven for 10 minutes to heat through well. Serve. Alternative Cheeses For the Cheddar - Any Cheddar Cheese; For the Cheese Curds Provolone, Swiss Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Page 20

21 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Curd Tart 8 oz all purpose flour Pinch salt 5oz butter 1 egg yolk 2 tbsp cold water 1 lb Cheese Curds 3 eggs, beaten 3oz currants 4 oz brown sugar Finely grated rind 1 lemon Place the flour and salt into a bowl. Add 4oz butter and rub in with fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in egg yolk and enough water to bind the mixture together. Form into a ball. Roll out pastry on a floured bench. Line a 9 inch flan or pie dish, and then place in the fridge. Put the cheese curds into a bowl and break into small pieces. Stir in eggs, followed by currants, sugar and lemon rind. Melt remaining butter and stir until evenly mixed. Pour filling into pastry case, place on a preheated baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes or until filling is golden and set. Serve tart warm or cold. Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Page 21

22 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cheese Squares Makes 72 4 oz butter 2 oz scallions, chopped 12 oz marinated artichoke hearts 10 large eggs ½ cup all purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder Pinch salt 18 oz grated Fresh Mozzarella cheese 18 oz Cheddar Cheese Curds 2 tbsp chopped pimento Preheat oven to 390F. Put butter in an 8 x 12 inch baking pan and melt in oven as it preheats. Remove as soon as butter is melted. Sauté scallions in 1 tablespoon of butter. Drain and chop the artichoke hearts. Beat eggs lightly in a large bowl. Combine flour, baking powder and salt and add to the eggs. Beat lightly. Add melted butter, chopped artichoke hearts, cheeses, pimento and shallots. Combine well. Pour mixture into baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes then reduce heat to 350F and bake a further 40 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving. Provolone, Smoked Mozzarella, Mozzarella Curds Cheddar Cheese Curd Recipes Page 22

23 Mozzarella Recipes Quick Pizza Serves 4 1 can diced tomatoes 1 tsp dried oregano Black pepper 4 English muffins, split ½ lb Pizza Mozzarella, sliced Combine tomatoes, oregano and freshly ground black pepper in pan over medium heat. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Allow to cool then blend or process until smooth. Toast the muffins lightly. Spread tomato mixture over the base then top with slices of cheese. Place under griller until cheese melts and browns slightly. Fresh Mozzarella, Smoked Mozzarella, Mild Cheddar Mozzarella Recipes Page 23

24 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Mozzarella Melts Serves 4 8 slices bread ½ lb Fresh Mozzarella, sliced ½ cup all purpose flour 1 egg 1 tbsp water 1 tbsp olive oil or butter Cut slices of bread into rounds with a cookie cutter to match size of the mozzarella slices. Top each round with a slice of Mozzarella and press gently together. Beat egg and water together well. Roll bread and cheese in flour and dip into egg mixture. Heat oil in frying pan over medium heat. Place prepared bread and cheese into pan and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes each side, or until golden brown. Serve immediately. Smoked Mozzarella, Pizza Mozzarella, Provolone, Smoked Provolone Mozzarella Recipes Page 24

25 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Caprese Salad Serves 6 4 vine ripened tomatoes 1 lb Fresh Mozzarella 1 cup fresh basil leaves Extra virgin olive oil Sea salt Black Pepper Slice both the tomatoes and mozzarella into ¼ inch thick slices. Select a round serving plate and layer slices alternately around the dish. Tear basil leaves gently and sprinkle over the plate liberally. Drizzle over oil and sprinkle with freshly ground salt and black pepper. Serve. Notes: Choosing the best quality tomatoes and freshest mozzarella available is a must for this dish as the freshness of the ingredients is what makes it so good. Mozzarella Curd Mozzarella Recipes Page 25

26 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Smoked Mozzarella Sandwiches Serves 4 8 thick slices ciabatta or other Italian-style bread Butter or margarine for spreading 12 thin slices Smoked Mozzarella 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced 8 large basil leaves Preheat a barbecue or grill plate to medium. Spread each slice of bread with butter, then place 4 slices, buttered-side-down, on a clean, flat surface. Layer the cheese, tomato and basil on top, then add the remaining slices, placing them buttered-side-up. Tie the sandwiches together with kitchen string. Place sandwiches onto hot plate, pressing down firmly with a spatula. Grill for 3 minutes, pressing down firmly during cooking. Turn and cook the other side for 2 minutes, continuing to press down, until bread is golden brown and filling heated through. Remove from heat and cut each sandwich in half. Serve hot. Notes: A sandwich press could also be used, however the sandwiches will be slightly more compressed. Fresh Mozzarella, Provolone, Smoked Provolone Mozzarella Recipes Page 26

27 Mozzarella Pesto Chicken Serves 4 4 chicken breasts 2 tbsp oil 6 tbsp pesto 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella, cut into ¼ inch slices Black Pepper 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cut each chicken breast in half lengthways. Place between two pieces of food wrap or baking paper. Flatten with a rolling pin or similar until about ¼ inch thick. Heat oil in frying pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook on both sides until golden, about 1-2 minutes. Turn the heat down slightly and spread 1/2 tablespoon of pesto sauce over each piece of chicken. Place a slice of Mozzarella on top of the pesto and sprinkle with freshly ground pepper. Gently remove the chicken from the pan and place under a preheated hot grill until the Mozzarella melts. Put onto serving plates. Add remaining pesto to pan with a little water and stir to combine. Spoon over chicken. Serve. Notes: It may be necessary to cook the chicken in batches, depending on pan size. If this is done, simply keep them warm by covering with foil. Smoked Mozzarella, Pizza Mozzarella, Mozzarella Curd, Provolone Mozzarella Recipes Page 27

28 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Roasted Tomatoes with Mozzarella Stuffing Serves 4 12 Roma or plum tomatoes 6 oz fresh breadcrumbs 8 anchovy fillets, rinsed, dried and chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed ¼ cup parsley, chopped 8 oz Mozzarella Curd 4 tbsp olive oil Preheat oven to 425F. Slice the tomatoes in half lengthways. Scoop out seeds and place into a bowl. Place tomatoes, skin side down, into a roasting tin. Mix together tomato seeds, breadcrumbs, anchovies, garlic, parsley, Mozzarella curd and half the oil. Season to taste. Spoon filling back into tomato halves. Drizzle remaining oil over tomatoes and bake in the oven for around 25 minutes, or until filling is golden. Fresh Mozzarella, Smoked Mozzarella, Pizza Mozzarella, Provolone Mozzarella Recipes Page 28

29 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Smoked Salmon and Dill Pizza Serves 4 2 pizza bases 3 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and sliced 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced 1 tbsp each chopped dill and parsley 4 oz Pizza Mozzarella, sliced Preheat oven to 425F. Arrange tomatoes on pizza base and lay salmon on top. Sprinkle over herbs and cover with cheese. Place the pizza onto a baking sheet or pizza stone and place into oven. Cook for minutes or until golden. Serve immediately. Notes: Smoked salmon can be replaced with peeled prawns. Alternative Cheeses Mozzarella Curd, Smoked Mozzarella Mozzarella Recipes Page 29

30 Mozzarella Pasta with Olives 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Serves 4 12 oz penne pasta 1 small red onion, finely chopped 1 red chili, seeded and finely chopped 1 lb ripe tomatoes, chopped 6 tbsp olive oil 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella, chopped Handful fresh basil 4 oz black olives Cook pasta in large pan of boiling water for minutes. Mix together onion, chili and tomatoes in a large bowl. Season to taste and stir through olive oil. Drain pasta and fold through tomato mixture with Mozzarella, basil and olives. Combine well and serve. Notes: Chili can be omitted if preferred. Other fresh herbs including mint, parsley and oregano can also be used. Mozzarella Curd, Smoked Mozzarella, Provolone Mozzarella Recipes Page 30

31 Specialty Cheese Recipes The Ultimate Toasted Cheese Sandwich Serves 4 8 thick slices bread of choice 8 oz sliced Colby Jack 4 tsp favorite chutney 2 tbsp butter Cover the bread slices with cheese and spread over a little chutney. Press two cheese covered slices together and press together firmly to make a sandwich. Spread butter on both outer sides of the sandwich. Heat frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches into the pan and cook on both sides for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cheese has melted. Remove from pan, cut into serving sizes and serve. Notes: Any type of bread can be used. Apart from standard white and wholemeal try some interesting varieties like sourdough, Panini and Foccacia. Cheddar any variety, Double Smoked Gouda Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 31

32 Cheese and Date Bread 2 cups all purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 1 tsp dry mustard Salt and pepper 2 tbsp butter 1 cup grated Provolone ½ cup chopped dates 2 eggs, well beaten (reserve a teaspoon) 2/3 cup buttermilk 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Preheat oven to 350F. Grease a 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan. Sieve flour, baking powder and salt into a medium bowl. Rub in butter using fingertips until mixture is crumbly. Stir through cheese, dates, eggs and buttermilk and blend mixture until it is well combined. Pour mixture into prepared pan and brush with reserved egg. Bake for minutes in the center of the oven until firm to touch. Remove from oven, allow to cool in pan for 5 minutes then turn out. Can be sliced and served fresh, warm or cold. Notes: The mixture can be baked in two smaller pans if desired. Cooking time may need to be reduced slightly. Mild Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, Colby Jack Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 32

33 Baked Macaroni Cheese Serves 4 8 oz macaroni 3 tbsp butter 2 tbsp flour 3 cups milk 2 egg yolks, beaten 2 cups grated Colby Jack ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs Preheat oven to 450F and grease 8 x 8 x 2 inch dish. 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cook macaroni according to packet directions. Drain and rinse in cold water and allow to cool. Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and allow to cook while stirring for around 1 minute. Add milk gradually and bring gently to the boil while continually stirring. Continue cooking until sauce is thickened. Add some of the hot sauce to egg yolks and beat well. Return to saucepan and stir in well along with 1 ½ cups of cheese until the cheese just melts. Season to taste. Fold cooked macaroni through the cheese sauce and pour into prepared dish. Combine remaining cheese with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the top. Bake for minutes or until golden brown on top. Notes: A mixture of cheeses could be used. See the list below. Diced ham or bacon can be stirred through the macaroni for a tasty variation. Sharp Cheddar, Extra Sharp Cheddar, Super Sharp Cheddar, Gouda. Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 33

34 Ham and Cheese Buns Serves 6 6 soft white rolls Hot milk 4oz grated Gouda cheese ¾ cup finely diced ham Butter 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Split the rolls in half and hollow out the soft white centers. Mix these with a little hot milk, cheese and ham. Spoon back into the rolls and secure closed with toothpicks. Brush with melted butter and brown in oven heated to 350F for 20 minutes. Remove toothpicks and serve hot. Swiss Cheese, Muenster, Colby Jack, Mild Cheddar Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 34

35 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Nutty Cheese Balls Serves cup Muenster cheese, grated 1 cup Sharp Cheddar, grated 1 cup cream cheese, softened 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp chili powder 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 cup chopped nuts Place all the ingredients except the nuts into a bowl and mash together well with a fork. Take a small portion at a time and shape into a small ball. Roll in the chopped nuts until whole surface is covered. Refrigerate until required. Notes: This is a great make ahead appetizer for entertaining. Chili and garlic can be adjusted up or down according to taste. Extra Sharp Cheddar, Horseradish Cheddar, Jalapeno Cheddar Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 35

36 Beef Steaks with Muenster Serves 4 1 zucchini 1 yellow pepper 1 eggplant 1oz butter 4 beef steaks Salt & Pepper 2 tbsp oil 1 onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 can plum tomatoes, drained and chopped 1 tbsp chopped basil 8 slices Muenster Cheese 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cut zucchini into matchsticks. Deseed and trim pepper and cut into strips. Dice eggplant. Melt butter in pan and cook steaks for 2-4 minutes each side. Season to taste, remove from pan and keep warm. Add oil to the same pan and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add remaining vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes. Tip in tomatoes along with extra seasoning and basil. Cut 4 pieces of foil large enough to wrap around the steaks with room to spare. Put a steak in the center of each and top with a portion of vegetable mixture and 2 slices of cheese. Pinch the edges of the foil together and bake in a moderate oven 350F for 15 minutes to melt cheese. Serve. Alternative Cheeses Fresh Mozzarella, Smoked Mozzarella, Provolone, Gouda Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 36

37 Cheese and Onion Tart Serves sheets frozen short crust pastry 4 oz Muenster, grated 4 oz Colby Jack, grated 1 tbsp all purpose flour 3 medium onions, thinly sliced 2 tbsp butter 3 eggs ½ cup cream ½ cup milk Salt and pepper 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Preheat oven to 400F. Grease a 9 inch pie dish and line with the pastry. Trim off overhang and brush base with a little egg white to prevent sogginess. Combine cheeses and flour then sprinkle over the pastry base. Heat butter over medium heat. Separate the onions and cook in butter until soft and golden. Arrange over cheese mixture. Beat eggs in a bowl with milk and cream. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over pie. Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce heat 320F and continue cooking for 45 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the custard is set. Serve hot or cold. Sharp Cheddar, Extra Sharp Cheddar, Gouda Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 37

38 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Tuna Melts Serves 6 2 x 6 oz cans tuna in oil 1 onion, finely chopped ½ green pepper, chopped 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 3 tbsp tomato sauce 1 chili, finely chopped 6 green olives, sliced 8 oz Colby Jack, grated Preheat oven to 360F. Drain the tuna oil into a small frying pan. Add the onion, pepper and garlic and sauté. Remove from heat and add in tuna, tomato sauce and chili. Combine well. Divide tuna mixture between tortillas. Top each with olives and grated cheese. Bake each tortilla for 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted and tuna is hot. Serve. Alternative Cheeses Fresh Mozzarella, Smoked Mozzarella, Provolone Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 38

39 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Gouda Tea Ring Serves 6 2 cups all purpose flour 4 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 1 tsp paprika 1 ½ cups grated Gouda 4 tbsp chunky relish of choice 1 egg 2/3 cup milk Preheat oven to 425F. Grease or line a baking tray. Sift the flour, baking powder, salt and paprika into a bowl. Stir in cheese and relish. Beat together the egg and milk. Pour into flour mixture to make a soft dough, reserving a little for glazing. Knead dough very lightly and divide into 6 pieces. Form each piece into a roll and place on prepared tray to form a circle with the rolls just touching each other. Brush with reserved milk and egg mixture. Bake in oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Separate roll and serve split and buttered, either hot or cold. Smoked Gouda, Swiss, Smoked Swiss Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 39

40 Warm Cheesy Bacon Dip Serves oz cream cheese, softened 8 oz grated Colby Jack 2 tbsp mustard 2 tsp white Worcestershire sauce 4 scallion, sliced ¼ tsp salt 1 lb bacon, cooked, crumbled 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Cut cream cheese into cubes and heat gently over very low heat until melted. Add cheese, mustard, Worcestershire, scallions and salt. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes until well combined and warm. Stir in crumbled bacon. Serve with small rye bread or toasted pumpernickel bread. Notes: It is important to go low and slow with this recipe as the aim is to slowly melt and combine the ingredients, not cook them. Muenster, Gouda Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 40

41 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Vegetable Parcels Serves 2 1 large onion, chopped 1 cup mashed pumpkin 4 mushrooms, chopped ½ cup grated Muenster 1 tbsp pine nuts, toasted 2 tbsp chopped parsley Filo pastry sheets Preheat oven to 375F. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Mix the first 6 ingredients together. Layer three sheets of pastry together, brushing each with melted butter. Cut in half and place filling in the middle. Wrap up as you would a parcel, brushing with melted butter as you work. Repeat process until all the mixture is used. Bake in oven for 30 minutes, or until browned. Colby Jack, Any Cheddar, Gouda Specialty Cheese Recipes Page 41

42 Swiss Cheese Recipes Individual Cheese Ramekins Serves 6 6 slices of toast 4 eggs 1 ½ cups cream 1 ½ cups grated Swiss cheese 1/8 tsp nutmeg Salt Preheat oven to 375F. Grease 6 individual ramekins well. Trim the toast and cut each into two triangles. Place these in the bottom of the ramekins. Separate the eggs. Beat the egg whites until stiff and set aside. Combine the egg yolks and cream and beat until well blended. Stir in the cheese, nutmeg and a pinch of salt. Fold through the beaten egg whites and pour the mixture into prepared ramekins. Bake in oven for 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and custards are golden brown. Serve. Smoked Swiss, Mild Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, Gouda, Colby Jack Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 42

43 Cheese and Egg Salad Serves 4 6 hard boiled eggs ½ lb Swiss cheese, finely diced ½ cup sour cream 1 ½ tsp dry mustard ¼ tsp ground cumin 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Chop the eggs very finely and combine well in a bowl with remaining ingredients. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve. Notes: The salad can be served in the bowl or individually. For individual servings, arrange the salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves. Smoked Swiss, Horseradish Cheddar, Muenster, Provolone Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 43

44 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Surprise Potatoes Serves 6 6 large potatoes 3 oz butter 4 oz Swiss cheese, grated Wash the potatoes well and roast in their skins for 1 hour at 450F. Remove from oven and cut a circle out of the center of each potato. Scoop out the potato and mash this with the cheese. Pack it back into the potatoes, piling the mixture up. Return to the oven for 10 minutes and serve. Notes: Some minced ham, bacon or chicken could also be mixed through the potato and cheese mix. Before serving, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits over the top. Smoked Swiss, Muenster, Colby Jack, Gouda Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 44

45 Fluffy Swiss Omelette Serves 1 3 eggs, separated 1 tsp cornflour ½ cup milk 1 oz butter 1 tsp chopped onion 3 tbsp Swiss cheese, grated 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Beat egg yolks with cornflour then add milk. Season to taste. Beat egg whites until stiff and fold gently into the egg yolk mixture. Cook the onion in a little oil until just tender. Combine with Swiss cheese and fold into egg mixture. Melt butter in pan over low heat and pour in mixture. Cook until set and golden underneath. Place under grill to brown the top. Add fillings and fold if desired. Notes: The omelette can be filled with a variety of ingredients bacon, ham, mushroom, tomatoes, herbs and grated cheese are all good. Smoked Swiss, Gouda, Muenster, Provolone Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 45

46 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Quiche Lorraine Serves cup plain flour 2 oz butter 1 egg yolk 2 tbsp iced water 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and diced 1 cup grated Swiss cheese 4 eggs 1 cup cream 1 cup milk ¼ tsp salt Pinch cayenne Pinch nutmeg Sift the flour into a bowl. Rub in butter with fingertips until mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Beat egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of water and sprinkle over flour. Use a knife to cut through the mixture until firm dough is formed. Add extra water if necessary. Knead the dough lightly on a floured board, wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until required. Preheat oven to 350F. Roll out dough thinly to fit 9 inch fluted flan. Press into greased pan and cut off any overhang. Place a piece of foil or greaseproof paper into the base of the pan and fill with dried beans, rice or pie weights. Bake in oven for 20 minutes, remove weights then return to the oven for 10 minutes until browned all over. This is called blind baking. Layer the bacon and cheese into the base of the pastry case. Beat together the remaining ingredients and pour over. Return to the oven and bake a further 30 minutes. Test if ready by inserting knife into the quiche. It should come out clean. Cool on a wire rack, or serve warm. Smoked Swiss, Colby Jack, Muenster, Gouda, Provolone Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 46

47 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Veal Cordon Bleu Serves 4 4 veal steaks Salt and pepper 4 slices Smoked Swiss cheese 4 thin slices ham Flour 2 eggs, beaten ¾ cup breadcrumbs 2 tbsp oil Place veal steaks between plastic wrap and flatten with a rolling pin. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top one half of each steak with a slice of cheese and ham. Fold over to encase the filling. Gently pound the edges together to seal. Dip into flour, then beaten eggs, then breadcrumbs. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Heat oil in a large frying pan and fry the steaks for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown on both sides. Serve with steamed vegetables. Swiss Cheese, Provolone, Mozzarella, Gouda, Muenster Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 47

48 Peach, Ham and Cheese Salad Serves 4 1 head of lettuce, trimmed and roughly torn 1 tub of salad sprouts 2 peaches, pits removed and cut into thin wedges 4 oz Swiss Cheese, cut into sticks 4 oz thickly sliced ham, cut into sticks 3 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp white wine vinegar 1 tsp Dijon mustard 2 tbsp mayonnaise 1 tsp honey 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Combine the lettuce, sprouts, peaches, cheese and ham in a large bowl and toss together. In a small bowl combine the remaining ingredients and whisk together well. Alternatively, place them in a glass jar and shake well. Just before serving, toss the dressing and salad together. Serve with warm crusty bread. Gouda, Provolone Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 48

49 Onion Soup with Cheese Balls Serves 4 1 lb onions 5 tbsp butter 3 cups stock 3 cups milk 2/3 cup all purpose flour Salt and pepper ¼ tsp nutmeg 1 egg yolk 1 cup Swiss cheese, grated ¼ cup flour 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Peel and finely slice the onions. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter on low heat. Add the onions and cook gently for 5 minutes, then add a few tablespoons of stock. Cook for another 10 minutes then add half the remaining stock. Cook for 10 more minutes, add 1 cup of milk. Allow to cool slightly and puree in batches in a food processor or blender. Return to the pan with the remaining stock. To make the cheese balls, melt the remaining butter in a pan. Stir through the flour and mix well. Add 1 cup of hot milk and stir until thick and smooth. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Remove from the heat and beat in the egg yolk and Swiss cheese. Mix well and turn the mixture onto a damp plate, cool completely. Divide into small portions and form lots of tiny balls about ¾ inch across. Roll the balls in sifted flour. Add the remaining milk to the onion soup and bring to the boil; drop in the cheese balls. Cook for 5 minutes then remove carefully with a slotted spoon. Divide evenly amongst the soup bowls and cover with boiling soup. Serve. Smoked Swiss, Provolone, Gouda, Muenster, Colby Jack Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 49

50 Swiss Cheese Pudding Serves cup all purpose flour 1 ½ cups milk ½ cup butter 6 eggs 8 oz Swiss cheese, cut into small pieces Extra Swiss cheese, grated 50 Great Cheesy Recipes Preheat oven to 350F and grease a deep pie dish with butter. Combine flour with ¾ cup milk and make into a smooth paste. Set aside. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add remaining milk. Stir to combine and bring to the boil. When boiling, stir in the flour and milk mixture gradually. Remove from heat and add the eggs one at a time while stirring. Return to low heat and stir in cheese until just melted. Once mixture is smooth and creamy pour into prepared dish. Sprinkle with extra cheese and bake for 30 minutes. Serve. Notes: This savory pudding can be served hot or cold, but is best served straight from the oven. Serve as a first or last course. Smoked Swiss, Gouda, Smoked Gouda Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 50

51 The Perfect Cheese Platter 50 Great Cheesy Recipes A cheese platter is ideal served as a savory course at the end of a meal, either instead of dessert, or afterwards. To put together the perfect cheese platter there are a few simple guidelines to follow: Remove cheeses from the refrigerator before serving and allow to come to room temperature. Chilling dulls the flavor and can change the texture, so standing it at room temperature will ensure it is at its best. Aim for a combination of mild, strong, soft and hard cheeses to suit different tastes. Serve 2 or 3 large pieces of cheese rather than a lot of smaller portions. Serve with bread, crackers, fruit paste, fruit, nuts or a combination. Arrange everything on a wooden board or platter to make it easier to cut and serve the cheese. Enjoy! Swiss Cheese Recipes Page 51