Baked Fontina Cheese: A Culinary Symphony of Creamy Goodness
Baked Fontina Cheese is an exquisite dish that tantalizes taste buds with its rich, nutty flavor and velvety texture. Originating from the Northern Italian region of Valle d'Aosta, Fontina cheese boasts a long and storied history, dating back to the 12th century. Typically made from cow's milk, this cheese is renowned for its versatility, lending itself to various culinary creations, including casseroles, pasta dishes, and, of course, the delectable Baked Fontina Cheese.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to crafting the perfect Baked Fontina Cheese, providing two distinct recipes that cater to different preferences and skill levels. The first recipe, "Classic Baked Fontina Cheese," takes a traditional approach, utilizing a handful of essential ingredients to highlight the cheese's inherent flavors. Alternatively, the "Gourmet Baked Fontina Cheese" recipe elevates the dish with a medley of complementary ingredients, including sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs, resulting in a symphony of textures and flavors that will impress even the most discerning palate.
Both recipes provide step-by-step instructions, ensuring success for home cooks of all levels. Detailed explanations and helpful tips accompany each step, guiding readers through the entire process, from selecting the finest Fontina cheese to achieving the perfect golden-brown crust. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this article equips you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to create a Baked Fontina Cheese that will leave a lasting impression.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to the heart of Italy. Let the aroma of melted Fontina cheese fill your kitchen as you indulge in a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Your taste buds will thank you for this delectable journey into the world of baked cheese.
BAKED FONTINA
Baked Fontina cheese dip inspired by Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa. This easy holiday appetizer is made with Italian fontina cheese, olive oil, and fresh spices, all baked to bubbly perfection and served with crusty French Bread.
Provided by Lauren Allen
Categories Appetizer
Time 21m
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Before preheating the oven, move one oven rack and place it about 5 inches from the heat. (on the bottom rack)
- Turn the broiler oven on high.
- Assemble your Fontina cheese cubes in the bottom of a large cast-iron pan. Be sure to space them apart. Drizzle olive oil on top of the cheese.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic, fresh thyme, and fresh rosemary. Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese and olive oil.
- Add salt and pepper and place the pan under the broiler for about 6 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and starts to brown.
- Serve immediately with the French baguette.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 254 kcal, Carbohydrate 1 g, Protein 14 g, Fat 21 g, SaturatedFat 11 g, Cholesterol 65 mg, Sodium 648 mg, ServingSize 1 serving
BAKED FONTINA CHEESE
A delicious appetizer of melted cheese served in a rustic iron skillet. Dunk crusty bread and enjoy!
Provided by KathyP53
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 18m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Preheat broiler.
- Combine garlic, thyme, and rosemary in small bowl and set aside. Spread cheese cubes in bottom of cast iron skillet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic-herb mixture, then with salt and pepper. Place skillet under broiler and broil until cheese is melting, bubbling, and starting to brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread for dunking.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 790.7, Fat 66.6, SaturatedFat 34.6, Cholesterol 197.7, Sodium 1800.4, Carbohydrate 4.6, Fiber 0.3, Sugar 2.7, Protein 44
BAKED POLENTA WITH FONTINA CHEESE
Categories Milk/Cream Cheese Brunch Side Bake Lunch Casserole/Gratin Cornmeal Winter Bon Appétit Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added
Yield Serves 10
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Butter 9x13-inch baking dish. Combine 2 1/4 cups water, broth, shallots and marjoram in heavy large Dutch oven; bring to boil. Mix 2 1/2 cups cold water and cornmeal in bowl. Gradually mix cornmeal mixture into broth mixture. Return to boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium and boil gently until polenta is very thick, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Immediately spread 2 cups polenta in prepared dish. Top with 1 3/4 cups cheese. Drizzle with 1/4 cup cream. Repeat layering, using 2 cups polenta, 1 3/4 cups cheese and 1/4 cup cream. Top with remaining polenta. Spread remaining cheese over. Cover with foil. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before continuing.)
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake covered polenta until hot in center, about 1 hour 15 minutes. Uncover; continue baking until polenta bubbles at edges and top begins to brown, about 10 minutes.
Tips:
- Choose the freshest fontina cheese you can find. This will ensure that the cheese is creamy and flavorful.
- Use a good quality olive oil. This will help to enhance the flavor of the cheese.
- Don't overcook the cheese. The cheese should be melted and slightly bubbly, but it should not be brown.
- Serve the cheese immediately. Fontina cheese is best enjoyed when it is hot and melted.
- Garnish the cheese with fresh herbs, such as basil or rosemary. This will add a pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion:
Baked fontina cheese is a delicious and easy appetizer or snack. It is perfect for parties or gatherings, and it can also be enjoyed as a simple meal. With its creamy texture and nutty flavor, fontina cheese is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
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