Cheese And Chilli: Melty, Spicy Comfort Food Combinations

There are many types of cheese that can be used in chilli, as a topping or stirred through. Cheddar is a popular choice, especially sharp cheddar, which can be shredded and melted on top of a bowl of chilli. Mozzarella is also used, stirred through at the end of cooking so that it melts into the chilli. For a spicy kick, pepper jack cheese is a good option, while feta is a more unusual choice.

Mozzarella and chilli

Mozzarella is a popular choice of cheese to pair with chilli. In fact, Tex-Mex custom decrees that chilli be eaten with a handful of grated cheese thrown on top.

Mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can be used in many ways when it comes to chilli. One way is to chop or tear it into small pieces and stir it into the chilli in the pan, allowing it to melt into the meat. This method is quick and easy, and the cheese adds a creamy texture and savoury flavour to the dish.

Another way to incorporate mozzarella into your chilli is to make it into a dip. You can mix canned chilli with cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and black pepper. Microwave the mixture until the cheeses have melted, then broil it for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Serve this dip with chips for a tasty snack or appetiser.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, you can also use mozzarella as a topping for chilli baked potatoes. Simply bake some potatoes in the oven, then top them with chilli and mozzarella, and bake until the cheese is melted. This creates a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a cold day.

When choosing mozzarella for your chilli, go for the fresh variety, usually sold in balls, rather than the pre-shredded kind, as it melts better and has a better texture.

Cheddar and chilli

Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be used in many different ways to complement a chilli. For example, it can be shredded and sprinkled on top of a bowl of chilli to add a creamy texture and tangy flavour. This is a common way to serve chilli, and it is a simple way to elevate the dish.

For those who want to get a little more creative, cheddar can also be melted into the chilli itself. This creates a rich and indulgent dish, perfect for a cold day. This method of adding cheese to chilli is a good way to make the dish go further, as it can be served with a side of tortilla chips or freshly sliced bread for dunking.

If you're looking to create a more substantial meal, you could try making a chilli cheese dip. This can be made with just four ingredients: chilli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and salsa. Simply combine these ingredients in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until they are thoroughly combined and the cheese is bubbly. This dip can be served with tortilla chips, bread cubes, or vegetables for a warm and comforting snack.

For a more indulgent option, you could try making a chilli con queso. This is similar to the dip mentioned above but is typically made with more cheese. The extra cheese creates a thicker, creamier dip that is perfect for loading up on nachos or using as a topping for baked potatoes.

Whether you sprinkle it on top, melt it into the dish, or use it as a dip, cheddar is a great choice of cheese to pair with chilli. Its sharp flavour and creamy texture complement the spice and richness of the chilli, creating a delicious and satisfying combination.

Pepper jack and chilli

Pepper jack cheese is a vibrant and spicy variety of cheese that can add an inferno finish to any dish or dip. It is made using mild Monterey Jack cheese infused with heat from pickled chilli peppers. The amount of peppers can be adjusted to create the perfect flavour.

When it comes to chilli, pepper jack is an excellent choice. It adds a spicy kick to the dish, complementing the heat of the chilli con carne while also providing a creamy texture that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. The pepper jack melts beautifully into the chilli, creating a cohesive and indulgent dish.

To elevate the pepper jack and chilli combination even further, consider serving it with sides that will enhance the flavours. Freshly sliced bread or a bowl of tortilla chips are classic choices, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy chilli. A crisp green salad, sharply dressed, can also help to refresh the palate between bites. For an extra indulgent touch, add a scoop of sour cream and a hefty amount of cilantro on top of the chilli.

For those who enjoy a spicier experience, pepper jack cheese is an ideal choice to sprinkle on top of the chilli. Its vibrant colour and spicy flavour will leave your tongue tingling, creating a memorable and satisfying culinary experience.

When pairing pepper jack with chilli, consider choosing a drink that will complement the spicy flavours. A light wheat beer or a glass of champagne can help to balance the heat, providing a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a Malbec or Merlot can also be a good choice, offering a fuller-bodied option to savour with the dish.

Monterey jack and chilli

Monterey Jack is a Californian semi-hard cheese made using cow's milk. It has a mild flavour and slight sweetness. It is a good melting cheese and is often used in quesadillas, burritos, grilled cheese sandwiches, and on cheeseburgers.

Monterey Jack is a popular choice for those who like a milder cheese on their chilli. It is also a good option for migraine sufferers, as it is low in tyramine, an organic compound associated with headaches.

If you're looking for a spicier option, Pepper Jack is a derivative of Monterey Jack flavoured with chilli peppers, bell peppers, and herbs.

For a chilli cheese dish, you could try a copycat version of the famous Monterey Chicken from Chili's. This features chicken breasts topped with BBQ sauce, Monterey Jack cheese, and bacon. The chicken is first marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic, then cooked in a cast-iron skillet or grill. The BBQ sauce, cheese, and bacon are then added, and the dish is baked until the cheese is melted.

Alternatively, you could try a vegetarian chilli with beans and Monterey Jack cheese. This can be served with tortilla chips, a loaf of bread, or a green salad.

Feta and chilli

Feta is a great cheese to pair with chilli. It is a cost-effective option that is salty, sweet, spicy, and herby. There are two main types of feta: Greek feta, which is quite firm and crumbly, and Danish feta, which is much softer and almost as creamy as cream cheese. Both types work well in recipes, but Danish feta is better if you want to spread the cheese on bread or crackers.

One way to prepare feta and chilli is to bake them together. To do this, preheat your oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6. Place the feta on a sheet of foil and scatter chilli and oregano over it. Drizzle with olive oil, then seal the foil into a parcel and place on a baking tray. Bake for 10-25 minutes, until warmed and softened. You can also add honey and thyme for extra flavour. Serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Another option is to marinate the feta with herbs and chilli. Cut the feta into bite-sized cubes, then place them in a serving dish and scatter herbs, chilli, lemon rind, and black pepper over them. Pour extra virgin olive oil on top and serve with crusty bread.

Frequently asked questions