Andy Montoya
Adding cheese to stuffing is a great way to enhance the flavor and texture of this classic side dish. While traditional stuffing recipes typically include bread, herbs, and vegetables, adding cheese creates a delicious, savory twist. Many types of cheese can be used, such as cheddar, gouda, parmesan, or mozzarella, and they can be incorporated into the stuffing mixture or sprinkled on top for a crispy, melted finish. This versatile ingredient can be adjusted to suit personal preferences, making it a popular choice for those looking to experiment with their stuffing recipes. Whether it's a holiday dinner or a cozy family meal, cheese stuffing is a tasty option that can be tailored to suit any palate.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is it okay to put cheese on top of stuffing? | Yes |
| Types of cheese that can be used | Cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, parmesan, gruyere, swiss, white cheddar, four-cheese blend |
| Other ingredients that go well with cheese in stuffing | Bread, herbs, veggies, eggs, chicken broth, sausage, bacon, butter, onion, celery, carrots, mushrooms |
| How to prepare | Grate your own cheese, add cheese to the bowl and gently toss to mix, sprinkle cheese on top of the stuffing before baking |
| How to store | Can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for one to three months |
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What You'll Learn
Cheese and herb stuffing recipes
Yes, it is perfectly fine to put cheese on top of your stuffing! In fact, cheese and herb stuffing is a delicious and popular dish. This non-traditional stuffing recipe typically includes herbs like dill, chives, and fresh parsley along with a buttery, savoury flavour. The cheese of choice is often cheddar, but you can use any cheese you like. Here are some recipes and tips to make your own cheese and herb stuffing.
Ingredients
- Bread cubes or crispy French bread
- Butter
- Onion
- Chicken stock or broth
- Eggs
- Cheddar cheese or any cheese of your choice
- Herbs: dill, chives, parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, or a mix of your choice
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: celery, carrots, mushrooms, garlic, bacon, sausage
Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 350°F or 375°F.
- Spray a 2-quart or 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a frying pan or skillet, sauté the onion in butter for 10-12 minutes or until tender. You can also add some olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the butter and onion mixture over the bread cubes and mix well.
- Add the chicken stock, eggs, and herbs. Mix again.
- Add the cheese to the bowl and gently toss to mix. You can use shredded or grated cheese for a better flavour.
- Pour the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the stuffing.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until the top layer turns golden brown.
- Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving.
Tips
- You can use store-bought bread crumbs to make the recipe quicker and easier.
- If you like your stuffing drier, you can leave out the eggs.
- You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for one to three months.
- To dry out the bread, cut it into 1-inch cubes and leave it uncovered overnight, or bake it in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
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Best cheeses for stuffing
Adding cheese to your stuffing is a great way to enhance its flavour and texture. While you can use any cheese you like, some cheeses work better than others. Here are some of the best cheeses for stuffing:
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for stuffing. Its sharp, tangy flavour pairs well with the other ingredients commonly found in stuffing, such as bread, herbs, and vegetables. Cheddar cheese also melts well, creating a creamy and cheesy texture that is sure to elevate your dish. You can use mild, sharp, or extra-sharp cheddar, depending on your preference.
Gouda
If you're looking for a milder, softer cheese that melts easily, gouda is an excellent option. Its smoky flavour complements a variety of ingredients commonly used in stuffing, such as bacon, onions, and celery. Gouda adds a subtle creaminess to your stuffing without overwhelming the other flavours.
Parmesan
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavour to your stuffing. It has a strong flavour, so a little goes a long way. Parmesan can enhance the taste of your stuffing without making it overly creamy or rich. It also adds a bit of texture, as it tends to crisp up nicely when baked.
Four-Cheese Blend
For an extra indulgent and flavourful stuffing, you can use a four-cheese blend. This typically includes a combination of cheeses such as Gruyere, Swiss, white cheddar, and mozzarella. Each cheese contributes its unique flavour and texture, creating a complex and delicious taste profile.
Fresh Herbs and Cheese
While not strictly a type of cheese, combining fresh herbs with your chosen cheese can take your stuffing to the next level. Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, chives, and thyme enhance the flavour of the cheese and add a bright, fresh note to your dish. They also make your stuffing look more vibrant and appealing.
When it comes to adding cheese to your stuffing, feel free to experiment with different types and amounts to find your perfect combination. You can grate your own cheese for a better flavour, and don't forget to add a generous topping of cheese towards the end of the cooking time for a toasty, crispy, melty exterior.
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How to store cheese stuffing
While there are no specific instructions for storing cheese stuffing, there are some general guidelines for storing cheese and cooked food that can be applied.
Firstly, it is important to note that cheese is a living, breathing food that needs oxygen and humidity to stay fresh. Therefore, it should not be stored in plastic wrap as this cuts off the air supply and can affect the flavour. Instead, cheese paper is recommended for storage. When storing cheese, it is also best to buy smaller quantities that can be consumed in one to two sittings, as refrigeration can affect the flavour of leftover wedges.
When storing cooked food, it is generally recommended to use airtight containers. For stuffing, specifically, it can be stored in a sealed container or freezer bag in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for up to six weeks and then reheated in the microwave or air fryer.
Additionally, when preparing cheese stuffing, it is suggested to use a milder, softer cheese that will easily melt in the oven, such as gouda. Grating your own cheese can also enhance the flavour.
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When to add cheese to stuffing
Adding cheese to stuffing is a great way to enhance the flavour and texture of this classic side dish. While there are many ways to add cheese to your stuffing, the key is to ensure that it is melted and combined with the other ingredients. Here are some tips on when to add cheese to your stuffing:
Choosing the Right Cheese
The type of cheese you choose for your stuffing can make a big difference in flavour. It is important to pick a cheese that pairs well with your other ingredients. For example, a mild, soft cheese like Gouda is a great option as it melts easily and has a smoky flavour that goes well with bacon, onions, and celery. Other options include cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss, white cheddar, mozzarella, or a four-cheese blend. You can also get creative and use grilled cheese sandwiches as the base for your stuffing, ensuring a perfect balance of bread and cheese.
Preparing the Cheese
To ensure the best flavour and texture, it is recommended to grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, but freshly grated cheese will result in a more flavourful and melted consistency. You can also adjust the amount of cheese to your preference, adding a generous amount to the stuffing mixture and reserving some for the topping.
Adding Cheese to the Stuffing Mixture
When preparing your stuffing, there are a few key steps to ensure the cheese is incorporated properly. First, prepare your bread base by toasting or drying the bread in the oven. This will ensure it absorbs the flavours without becoming soggy. Then, in a separate bowl, combine your cooked vegetables, seasonings, and other ingredients like chicken stock, eggs, and sausage or bacon. Add the cheese to this mixture and gently mix to combine.
Topping with Extra Cheese
For a crispy, golden topping, sprinkle extra cheese on top of your stuffing before baking. This will create a melty, toasted exterior that is sure to impress. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley on top for added flavour and aroma.
Baking and Serving
Follow the baking instructions for your specific recipe, typically baking the stuffing covered for about 30 minutes, then uncovering and baking for an additional 15 minutes until golden and puffy. The cheese should be melted and combined with the other ingredients, creating a delicious and cohesive dish. Serve your cheesy stuffing alongside your main course, enjoying the perfect blend of flavours and textures.
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Baked vs. grilled cheese stuffing
Adding cheese to stuffing is a great way to enhance the flavour and texture of this classic side dish. While there are many ways to cook stuffing, baking and grilling are two of the most popular methods. Here is a detailed comparison of baked vs. grilled cheese stuffing:
Baked Cheese Stuffing
Baking is a traditional method for cooking stuffing, resulting in a crispy, golden dish. To make baked cheese stuffing, you can use a variety of cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or even grated bagged cheddar. The key to a perfect baked stuffing is to add the cheese at the right time. First, prepare the bread cubes by mixing them with butter, onions, and seasonings. Then, add the chicken stock and eggs, and most of the cheese, reserving some for topping. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the stuffing before baking. This extra cheese will melt and create a delicious, crispy exterior.
Baked stuffing is typically prepared in a baking dish, resulting in a uniform texture and consistent cooking. It is important to preheat the oven to the recommended temperature, usually around 350-375°F, to ensure even cooking. Baking the stuffing for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown, is ideal.
Grilled Cheese Stuffing
Grilled cheese stuffing is a unique twist on the traditional dish. This method involves making grilled cheese sandwiches, which are then cut into cubes and combined with other ingredients to create a stuffing. Grilled cheese sandwiches provide a nice toasted texture to the bread, and the melted cheese layers in between are a tasty surprise.
To make grilled cheese stuffing, prepare the sandwiches with your choice of bread and cheese. Grill the sandwiches until they are nicely browned and the cheese is melted. Cut the sandwiches into cubes and combine them with other ingredients such as eggs, chicken broth, and seasonings. Spread the mixture into a baking pan and sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, creating a gooey and indulgent stuffing.
Both baked and grilled cheese stuffing have their unique advantages. Baked stuffing is a classic, simple method that results in a crispy, golden dish with melted cheese throughout. Grilled cheese stuffing, on the other hand, offers a creative approach with layers of melted cheese and a unique texture from the grilled bread. Ultimately, the choice between baked and grilled cheese stuffing depends on personal preference and the desired flavour and texture profile.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is okay to put cheese on top of stuffing. In fact, cheese is a common ingredient in many stuffing recipes.
You can use any cheese you like. Cheddar, gouda, gruyere, Swiss, mozzarella, parmesan, and four-cheese blends are all popular options.
You can add the cheese to the stuffing mixture before baking, or sprinkle it on top of the stuffing towards the end of its cooking time to create a crispy, melty exterior.
