Are you a cheese lover looking for inspiration to elevate your cooking game? Look no further! Manchego cheese, with its rich, creamy flavor and smooth texture, is the perfect addition to any dish. In this article, we’re excited to share 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of Manchego cheese. From savory main courses to sweet desserts, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds.
Whether you’re a fan of Spanish cuisine or just looking for new ways to use this delicious cheese, our collection of recipes has something for everyone. We’ll start with some classic combinations, like Manchego and chorizo stuffed mushrooms, followed by innovative twists on traditional dishes, such as creamy risotto and roasted red pepper quesadillas.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge your love of cheese with these delectable recipes!
Manchego Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your tapas game with this flavorful and savory recipe, combining the richness of Manchego cheese and spicy chorizo sausage with earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 4 oz chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled Manchego cheese and cooked chorizo.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese-chorizo mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Manchego Cheese Risotto with Asparagus
This creamy risotto dish combines the rich flavor of Manchego cheese with the tender sweetness of asparagus, perfect for a springtime meal or special occasion. With its velvety texture and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth to the rice mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the grated Manchego cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Meanwhile, sauté the asparagus in olive oil until tender.
6. Combine the cooked asparagus with the risotto mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Fig Crostini
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with this elegant appetizer. This simple yet impressive crostini is perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 wheel Manchego cheese (about 8 ounces), sliced into thin wedges
– 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. Top each crostini with a slice of Manchego cheese, a few chopped figs, and a drizzle of your favorite honey (optional).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Serrano Ham Empanadas
These flaky empanadas are filled with the rich flavors of Spain – Manchego cheese, cured Serrano ham, and a hint of onion. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 8 ounces Manchego cheese, crumbled
+ 4 slices Serrano ham, diced
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add oil and warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
5. Place a tablespoon of cheese, a few pieces of ham, and some onion in the center of each dough circle. Fold and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Manchego Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Quesadillas
Manchego Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Quesadillas: A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese with the sweet and smoky taste of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Manchego cheese
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note), sliced into strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with shredded Manchego cheese.
3. Add roasted red pepper strips on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: To roast red peppers, place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the skin blisters and peels off. Let cool before slicing.
Manchego Cheese and Caramelized Onion Tart
Manchego Cheese and Caramelized Onion Tart Recipe
A sweet and savory combination of Manchego cheese, caramelized onions, and flaky pastry comes together in this impressive tart. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat until caramelized, stirring occasionally. This will take about 20-25 minutes.
4. Spread the cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Manchego cheese over the onions.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Brush with egg wash and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Manchego Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with the creamy richness of Manchego cheese and the earthy flavor of spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Manchego cheese, spinach, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the Manchego- Spinach mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of Manchego cheese and succulent garlic shrimp on a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
– 4 large garlic cloves, minced
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup (60g) Manchego cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in Manchego cheese until melted and well combined with garlic and shrimp.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the cheese and shrimp mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta cooking liquid to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Pear Salad with Walnuts
Manchego Cheese and Pear Salad with Walnuts: A Simple yet Elegant Recipe
Combine the sweetness of pears with the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese and crunch of walnuts for a delightful salad perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe but firm pear, peeled and sliced
– 8 oz Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
2. Arrange pear slices on top of the dressing.
3. Sprinkle crumbled Manchego cheese over the pears.
4. Top with chopped walnuts.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None
Manchego Cheese and Honey Drizzled Toast
A sweet and savory combination that will elevate your snack game! This simple recipe brings together the rich flavor of Manchego cheese, the warmth of honey, and the crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Spread a small amount of Manchego cheese on each toasted slice.
4. Drizzle a small spoonful of honey over the cheese.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Manchego Cheese and Quince Paste Bites
Manchego Cheese and Quince Paste Bites: A Sweet and Savory Treat
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of Manchego cheese with the sweet, floral flavor of quince paste. Perfect for a quick snack or as an addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Manchego cheese (about 8 oz), crumbled
– 1/4 cup of quince paste, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the crumbled Manchego cheese and chopped quince paste until well combined.
3. Add the honey and salt to the mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the rich flavors of Manchego cheese and roasted garlic. This decadent side dish is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potatoes with a drizzle of oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, place garlic cloves on a separate baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and soft.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted potatoes, roasted garlic, crumbled Manchego cheese, and heavy cream or whole milk. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of Manchego cheese, crisp apple, and buttery bread. This elegant twist on a classic comfort food is perfect for a satisfying snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, sliced
– 1/2 apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of Manchego cheese, a few slices of apple, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Almond Stuffed Dates
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese and crunchy almonds, perfect for a quick and elegant appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted dates
– 1/2 cup crumbled Manchego cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the dates in half lengthwise and remove the pit.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the Manchego cheese and honey until well combined.
4. Stuff each date half with about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture.
5. Top each date with a few slices of almonds.
6. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the almonds are toasted.
8. Serve warm, sprinkled with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Tomato Gazpacho with Cheese Crisps
A refreshing summer soup that combines the creaminess of Manchego cheese, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the crunch of crispy cheese crisps.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cheese crisps (store-bought or homemade) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, bell pepper, parsley, garlic, and Manchego cheese.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add the gazpacho mixture and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve warm, topped with cheese crisps.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Herb Frittata
A flavorful and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch option that combines the richness of Manchego cheese with fresh herbs and eggs. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced Manchego cheese (or similar firm cheese)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in an 8-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in egg mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to set.
5. Sprinkle Manchego cheese, garlic, parsley, and chives evenly over the eggs.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are almost set.
7. Remove from oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes
Elevate your toast game with this creamy and spicy combination. The nutty flavor of Manchego cheese pairs perfectly with the richness of avocado, all tied together with a kick from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (preferably crusty)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup crumbled Manchego cheese
– 1-2 tsp chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled Manchego cheese over the avocado.
4. Add a pinch or two of chili flakes to taste.
5. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Blackberry Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of Manchego cheese, blackberries, and toasted baguette. Perfect for a quick snack or as a starter for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup fresh blackberries, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. While the bread is toasting, mix the crumbled Manchego cheese with chopped blackberries in a small bowl.
4. Drizzle the toasted bread with olive oil and top each slice with a spoonful of the Manchego-blackberry mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavor of Manchego cheese with these 18 creamy recipes! From savory dishes like risotto and empanadas, to sweet treats like crostini and toast, this collection has something for every cheese lover. Try stuffing mushrooms with chorizo and Manchego, or making a decadent Manchego cheese quesadilla. For a lighter option, enjoy the simplicity of Manchego and pear salad or Manchego and honey drizzled toast. Whatever your taste buds desire, this array of Manchego recipes is sure to satisfy!
