When it comes to rich and creamy cheeses, few can rival the majesty of Oaxaca cheese. Hailing from Mexico, this stringy, mozzarella-like delight has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of foodies around the world. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or subtle nuances, there’s no denying the versatility of Oaxaca cheese.
From savory dishes to sweet treats, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase this incredible cheese in all its glory. Imagine stuffed poblano peppers bursting with cheesy goodness, grilled chorizo quesadillas oozing with melted bliss, or creamy soups and stews infused with the deep flavors of Oaxaca’s signature ingredient.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the many faces of Oaxaca cheese. From classic Mexican dishes to innovative twists and international fusions, get ready to indulge in a world of creamy delights that will leave you wanting more.
Oaxaca Cheese Stuffed Poblano Peppers
This recipe combines the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese with the smoky sweetness of roasted poblano peppers, creating a flavorful and filling dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until skin is charred and blistered.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, then cut out stems and remove seeds.
4. In a bowl, mix Oaxaca cheese, chopped onion, and garlic.
5. Stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Grilled Oaxaca Cheese and Chorizo Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, these grilled beauties combine the creaminess of Oaxaca cheese with the spicy kick of chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup cooked chorizo, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix crumbled Oaxaca cheese with sliced chorizo.
3. Place one tortilla on the grill and sprinkle half of the cheese-chorizo mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly charred and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also lightly charred.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve warm with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Oaxaca Cheese and Corn Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect blend of Mexican flavors, featuring the tangy Oaxaca cheese, sweet corn, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup diced fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the corn kernels and Oaxaca cheese. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Black Bean Enchiladas
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this simple yet satisfying recipe. Oaxaca cheese adds a creamy texture, while black beans provide a boost of fiber and protein.
Ingredients:
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella as substitute)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing tortillas
– Enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of tortillas with oil. Place a spoonful of bean mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with Oaxaca cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Baked Oaxaca Cheese Dip with Roasted Tomatoes
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy dip infused with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 ball of Oaxaca cheese (about 12 oz), crumbled
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the tomato halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix crumbled Oaxaca cheese, softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the roasted tomatoes to a baking dish and top with the cheese mixture. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or veggies.
Cooking Time: About 40 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Mushroom Empanadas
Experience the rich flavors of Oaxaca, Mexico with these tender empanadas filled with melted cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese (or Queso Fresco), crumbled
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add oil and warm water, mixing until dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes, then divide into 8 equal pieces.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch).
5. Place 1 tablespoon of Oaxaca cheese in the center of each circle.
6. Top with sautéed mushrooms and sprinkle with cumin and paprika.
7. Fold dough over filling to form an empanada, pressing edges together.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and moist dish, packed with the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese and the earthy goodness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 block of Oaxaca cheese (or similar mozzarella-like cheese), crumbled
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Oaxaca cheese, spinach, garlic, and paprika.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the cheese-spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Potato Tacos
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe featuring tender potatoes, creamy Oaxaca cheese, and crispy tacos.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack), crumbled
– 8 corn tortillas
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and diced potatoes. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a spoonful of potato mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of Oaxaca cheese.
5. Serve immediately, topped with your choice of cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Avocado Tostadas
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this simple yet impressive recipe. Crispy corn tortillas topped with creamy Oaxaca cheese, ripe avocado, and a sprinkle of red onion make for a delightful snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Fry tortillas in small batches until crispy and slightly puffed, about 30 seconds per side.
3. In a separate pan, warm Oaxaca cheese over low heat until melted and creamy.
4. Assemble tostadas by topping fried tortillas with melted cheese, diced avocado, and red onion.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Frying tortillas: 2-3 minutes
– Melting Oaxaca cheese: 1-2 minutes
– Assembly: 5 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños
Add a kick to your snack game with these flavorful stuffed jalapeños, featuring the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese and succulent shrimp. Perfect for parties or game days.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup cooked and chilled shrimp, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together the crumbled Oaxaca cheese, diced shrimp, and a pinch of salt.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cheese-shrimp mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each pepper.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Caramelized Onion Pizza
Oaxaca Cheese and Caramelized Onion Pizza: A flavorful twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the rich flavors of Oaxaca cheese with sweet caramelized onions for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a pan, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Spread caramelized onions evenly over the pizza dough.
5. Sprinkle Oaxaca cheese over the onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta
Oaxaca Cheese and Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta
Summary:
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Oaxaca cheese with the nutty taste of pumpkin seeds, creating a unique and delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor, blend Oaxaca cheese, pumpkin seeds, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Add the pesto mixture to the cooked pasta, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
15-20 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Chorizo Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast burrito packed with creamy Oaxaca cheese, spicy chorizo, and crispy eggs. This recipe combines the best of Mexican cuisine in one delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 8 eggs
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 4 oz chorizo, cooked and crumbled
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the burritos by spreading some scrambled eggs, crumbled Oaxaca cheese, and chorizo onto each tortilla.
5. Add any desired toppings and fold the burrito to enclose.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this creamy and aromatic mashed potato dish, infused with the warmth of roasted garlic and the tanginess of Oaxaca cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Oaxaca cheese (or similar melting cheese)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
3. Roast garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
4. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with roasted garlic, Oaxaca cheese, and a pinch of salt.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Chipotle Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the rich flavors of Oaxaca cheese and smoky chipotles. These tender and juicy meatballs are perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Oaxaca cheese, chipotle peppers, breadcrumbs, garlic, and egg. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Sweet Potato Quesadillas
Experience the rich flavors of Oaxaca’s iconic cheese paired with sweet potatoes, wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This quesadilla recipe is a delightful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella), crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, or diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes and crumbled Oaxaca cheese. Season with salt to taste.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the sweet potato mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Lime Marinated Grilled Corn
This recipe combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the creaminess of Oaxaca cheese, all tied together with a tangy lime marinade. Perfect for a summer evening or as a side dish for your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and salt.
3. Add the corn to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, mix crumbled Oaxaca cheese with a pinch of salt.
6. Once the corn is cooked, brush with olive oil and sprinkle with cheese mixture.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Blackberry Dessert Empanadas
Oaxaca Cheese and Blackberry Dessert Empanadas Recipe
These sweet and savory empanadas combine the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese with the tart sweetness of blackberries, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup fresh blackberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into squares, about 5 inches per side.
5. Place a spoonful of Oaxaca cheese in the center of each square, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Arrange blackberries and sugar on top of the cheese.
7. Fold dough over filling to form triangles or squares, pressing edges to seal.
8. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Oaxaca Cheese and Cilantro Rice Bake
This recipe combines the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese with the fresh flavor of cilantro, all wrapped up in a comforting rice bake. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water and olive oil.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add cooked rice, Oaxaca cheese, and cilantro to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Pineapple Glazed Ham Sliders
These sweet and savory sliders are perfect for a summer gathering or brunch. The combination of Oaxaca cheese, caramelized pineapple, and glazed ham on a toasted bun is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham, thinly sliced
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 8 hamburger buns
– Oaxaca cheese, crumbled (about 1/2 cup)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
– Pineapple chunks, for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Grill ham slices until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Assemble sliders by spreading Oaxaca cheese on toasted buns, topping with glazed ham, pineapple chunks, and cilantro leaves.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Oaxaca cheese, a creamy and mild Mexican delight, is the star of this collection of 20 recipes. From savory dishes like Grilled Oaxaca Cheese and Chorizo Quesadillas and Oaxaca Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken to sweet treats like Blackberry Dessert Empanadas, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for comforting soups and stews or indulgent desserts, these recipes showcase the versatility of this beloved cheese. Get ready to elevate your cooking with these creative and delicious Oaxaca cheese recipes!
