Get ready to indulge in a world of comfort food with these 20 scrumptious and satisfying creamy cheesy recipes! Whether you’re in the mood for a classic mac and cheese, a gooey spinach and artichoke dip, or a rich and creamy chicken alfredo pasta, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of mouthwatering dishes features an array of flavors and textures that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From hearty casseroles and comforting breads to decadent pizzas and indulgent pastas, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of creamy cheese. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed comfort food aficionado or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, this list is sure to provide plenty of motivation to get cooking!
So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to cozy up with some serious comfort food vibes.
Ultimate Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy macaroni and cheese dish, featuring a trifecta of artisanal cheeses: sharp cheddar, tangy gouda, and nutty Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; 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 add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
This mouthwatering bread is perfect for a cozy evening or as a show-stopping side dish for your next gathering. With its buttery, garlicky aroma and gooey cheesy center, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough to a large rectangle.
3. Mix minced garlic with softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter layer.
6. Cut into 12-15 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
7. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Loaded Cheesy Potato Casserole
A comforting casserole filled with tender potatoes, savory cheese, and a hint of bacon – perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until potatoes are well coated.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato mixture in an even layer.
4. Sprinkle with half of the cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped parsley.
5. Repeat layers: potato mixture, cheese, bacon, and parsley.
6. Top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Mozzarella
This creamy dip combines the richness of artichokes and spinach with the melted goodness of mozzarella cheese, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake
A comforting and easy-to-make side dish perfect for any meal. This recipe combines the flavors of creamy cheese, steamed broccoli, and fluffy rice for a satisfying accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, steam broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until tender.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and grated cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Homemade Cheesy Stuffed Crust Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this simple recipe that combines the classic flavors of mozzarella and parmesan cheese, wrapped inside a crispy crust. Perfect for family gatherings or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly around the crust’s edge.
7. Place toppings of your choice on top of the cheese.
8. Spread pizza sauce over the toppings.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of chicken, cream, and Parmesan cheese with fettuccine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups cooked fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Add the chicken to the pasta mixture and toss until coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Poppers
These bite-sized treats combine the crunch of bacon, the spice of jalapeños, and the creaminess of cheese for a flavor explosion that’s sure to satisfy any snack craving.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeños
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the jalapeños and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and softened cream cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
This recipe is a perfect combination of summer zucchinis and melted cheese, baked to perfection. It’s an easy and flavorful side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine zucchini slices, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss until coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
5. Arrange half of the zucchini slices in the prepared dish. Top with half of the cheese mixture.
6. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole packed with sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread, perfect for a quick and satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 4 slices of white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Add shredded cheese and stir to combine.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Arrange bread cubes in the prepared dish. Top with cooked sausage, then pour egg mixture over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set and the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gooey Cheesy Queso Fundido
A Mexican-inspired appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any gathering. This rich and creamy queso fundido is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cheese, half-and-half, oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Transfer the queso fundido to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. If using, sprinkle diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco on top of the queso fundido.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
7. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Add a decadent twist to traditional shrimp scampi with the richness of melted cheddar and butter, all infused with the pungency of garlic. This indulgent yet effortless dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Return shrimp to skillet; toss with garlic butter mixture.
7. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Cornbread with Cheddar and Jalapeños
Elevate your cornbread game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of cheddar and the heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Tater Tot Hotdish
This classic Midwestern hotdish is a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, and for good reason – it’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With the combination of crispy tater tots, creamy cheese sauce, and savory ground beef, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of Tater Tots
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, and milk to the skillet; stir until combined.
4. Arrange Tater Tots in a 9×13 inch baking dish; top with meat mixture and shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hotdish is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of spaghetti and meatballs with a creamy, cheesy twist. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in breadcrumbs, egg, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, meatball mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with these creamy, cheesy shells filled with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and spinach in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
5. Stuff each cooked shell with the mushroom-spinach mixture, then top with the cheese mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this comforting dish that combines tender beef, crispy tortillas, and a savory red sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spreading beef mixture onto tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and cover with red sauce (see below).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Red Sauce:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, green chilies, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
3. Use immediately or store in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cheesy Herb Focaccia Bread
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this scrumptious cheesy herb focaccia bread, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. This recipe combines the richness of melted cheese, the freshness of herbs, and the softness of homemade bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, parsley, rosemary, and garlic powder evenly over the dough.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
A hearty and satisfying breakfast casserole that combines crispy hash browns, scrambled eggs, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups hash browns, thawed
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion over medium heat until softened. Add hash browns and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
5. Add cooked hash browns to the baking dish, followed by scrambled eggs.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Lobster Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent recipe that combines the richness of lobster with the creaminess of macaroni and cheese. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 lb cooked lobster meat, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, lobster meat, and cheese sauce.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy goodness with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken alfredo, to innovative twists on old favorites like cheesy stuffed crust pizza and lobster mac and cheese, there’s something for every cheese lover. Whether you’re in the mood for a warm casserole or a rich dip, these creamy cheesy recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
