15 Baked Cheese Recipes That Are Simple and Delicious

Cheese lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking for simple, delicious recipes that highlight the gooey, irresistible taste of baked cheese, you’re in the right place. These baked cheese recipes are perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you want to prepare a hearty side dish, a quick snack, or a show-stopping appetizer, these easy-to-follow recipes will satisfy your cravings.

Cheesy Baked Ziti

This classic baked ziti is a cheesy, comforting dish that’s perfect for dinner. Start by cooking 1 pound of ziti pasta until al dente. Mix the pasta with 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Layer the mixture in a baking dish, topping each layer with shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for extra flavor. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This easy baked ziti is sure to become a family favorite.

Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts

Baked brie is an elegant appetizer that’s incredibly simple to make. Place a round of brie cheese on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with honey. Top with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, until the brie is melted and gooey. Serve with slices of fresh baguette or crackers for dipping. This baked brie is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering.

Cheesy Garlic Bread

For a delicious side, try this easy cheesy garlic bread. Start with a loaf of French bread, sliced in half lengthwise. Mix 1/2 cup of softened butter with 3 minced garlic cloves, and spread the mixture evenly on the bread. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then bake at 375°F for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This cheesy garlic bread pairs perfectly with pasta or soup.

Baked Mac and Cheese

This baked mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting. Boil 2 cups of elbow macaroni until tender, then drain. In a separate pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Slowly add 2 cups of milk, stirring until thickened. Mix in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, then pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. You’ll have a golden, crispy topping and a creamy interior that’s hard to resist.

Baked Cheddar Cauliflower

For a healthy and delicious dish, baked cheddar cauliflower is a must-try. Start by cutting a head of cauliflower into florets and steaming them until slightly tender. Place the florets in a baking dish and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix 1/4 cup of heavy cream with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and pour it over the cauliflower. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. This dish is a great way to get your veggies with a cheesy twist.

Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms

Cheese-stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer. Start by removing the stems from about 20 large white mushrooms. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of garlic powder and parsley. Fill each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese filling is golden brown. These cheesy stuffed mushrooms are sure to disappear quickly at any party.

Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This baked spinach and artichoke dip is a creamy, cheesy, and irresistible crowd-pleaser. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of cream cheese, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, 1 cup of chopped spinach, and 1 cup of chopped artichoke hearts. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips or toasted bread for dipping.

Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes

For an indulgent side dish, try these cheesy baked mashed potatoes. Start by boiling 4 large potatoes until tender, then mash them with 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a baking dish, top with more cheddar cheese, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. These cheesy mashed potatoes are creamy and packed with flavor.

Baked Cheese-Stuffed Chicken

This baked cheese-stuffed chicken is a simple, flavorful main dish. Start by butterflying 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and stuffing each with 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Secure with toothpicks, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and place in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted. This easy dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a side salad.

Baked Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

For a comforting side dish, baked cheesy broccoli casserole is a hit. Steam 4 cups of broccoli florets until tender, then place them in a greased baking dish. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of milk, stirring until thickened, then add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. This cheesy casserole is creamy, delicious, and perfect for any meal.

Baked Caprese Chicken

Baked caprese chicken combines the flavors of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in a simple, delicious dish. Start by seasoning 4 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them in a baking dish and top each with slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato. Drizzle with olive oil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

For a vegetarian option, cheesy baked eggplant Parmesan is a delicious choice. Start by slicing 2 medium eggplants into rounds and coating them with breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, until crispy. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, the baked eggplant slices, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella on top, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. This dish is hearty, cheesy, and perfect for a meatless meal.

Baked Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeños

These baked cheese-stuffed jalapeños are a spicy, cheesy snack. Cut 12 large jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, until the jalapeños are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with sour cream for dipping.

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked feta pasta became a viral sensation for a reason—it’s easy and packed with flavor. In a baking dish, place a block of feta cheese in the center and surround it with cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper. Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden. Meanwhile, cook 8 ounces of pasta. Once the feta is done, mash it with the tomatoes and toss with the cooked pasta. This creamy, cheesy dish is a quick and satisfying dinner.

Cheesy Baked Quesadillas

For a quick and easy meal, baked quesadillas are a game-changer. Place flour tortillas on a baking sheet and fill with shredded cheese, beans, and your choice of cooked meat. Fold the tortillas in half and brush with olive oil. Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. These baked quesadillas are perfect for a weeknight dinner or snack.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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