Frederic Melton
Cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From grilled cheese sandwiches to macaroni and cheese, cheddar is a popular choice for many cheese lovers. If you have a block of cheddar cheese, there are several ways to cut and prepare it to elevate your meals. Whether you're slicing, shredding, or melting it, a block of cheddar cheese can go a long way in adding flavour to your favourite recipes.
What to do with a block of cheddar cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Eat it as it is | Enjoy the flavour of the cheese on its own |
| Grate it | Grate the cheese and melt it over anything |
| Freeze it | Portion it up and freeze it to add to dishes when cooking |
| Slice it | Slice it thinly to add to dishes |
| Use it in dishes | Mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, cheese souffle, cheddar bacon biscuits, au gratin potatoes, casseroles, tacos, burritos, scrambled eggs, cheese dip, spinach artichoke dip, stuffed chicken breast, burgers, omelets, quiche, soups, biscuits, pound cake, etc. |
| Use it as a topping | Top potatoes, broccoli, broccoli and cauliflower, salads, cooked vegetable dishes, hamburgers, hoagie sandwiches, etc. |
Explore related products
$9.99
What You'll Learn
Grate, slice, shred, or freeze it
Grating a block of cheddar cheese is a great way to make it go further and add flavour to a variety of dishes. Grated cheddar can be melted over grilled cheese, mac and cheese, cheese souffle, cheddar bacon biscuits, or au gratin potatoes. It can also be sprinkled over tacos, pizza, or pasta.
Slicing cheddar cheese is another option, and it can be used to elevate a simple grilled cheese sandwich, especially when served with a tomato soup. For a more delicate flavour, try slicing the cheese as thinly as possible. Cheddar slices can also be melted over burgers or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Shredding the cheese is a good way to prepare it for freezing. Shredded cheese can be frozen for up to two months and can be added directly to hot dishes like casseroles, or thawed and then melted. To prevent the shredded cheese from sticking together in the freezer, coat it with cornstarch.
Freezing a block of cheddar cheese is a great way to make it last longer. Cheddar is one of the harder cheeses that freeze better than softer varieties. Wrap the block tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil, then place it in a Ziplock freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Frozen cheese can be grated, sliced, or melted, and added to casseroles, soups, grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and other cooked dishes.
The Best Cheddar Cheese Powder: A Comprehensive Guide
You may want to see also
Make a grilled cheese sandwich
Cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. One delicious option is to make a grilled cheese sandwich. Here is a detailed guide on how to make a mouth-watering grilled cheese sandwich with your block of cheddar cheese:
Ingredients:
- Bread ( sourdough, rye, whole wheat, or any soft yet sturdy variety)
- Butter (unsalted or salted)
- Mayonnaise
- Cheddar cheese (block of cheddar cheese, grated)
- Optional: additional cheese, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Raclette
- Optional: vegetables like spinach, caramelized onions, or tomatoes
Instructions:
- Start by taking two slices of bread and spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the topside of each slice. This will give your sandwich a delicate, crispy texture.
- Next, flip one slice over and spread butter on the other side. You can use either unsalted or salted butter, depending on your preference.
- Now, it's time to add the cheese! Grate your block of cheddar cheese and layer it generously on top of the buttered side of the bread. If desired, you can add other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Raclette, for extra flavour and meltiness.
- Place the other slice of bread on top, with the mayonnaise side facing outwards.
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add enough butter to the pan to coat the bottom.
- Carefully place your sandwich in the pan, cover it, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure the bread doesn't burn.
- Once the bottom slice of bread is golden brown and crisp, it's time to flip! Flip the sandwich, replace the lid, and cook for another 1-3 minutes, or until the other slice of bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Finally, remove the sandwich from the pan, slice it into triangles, and serve immediately to enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients, such as vegetables or different types of cheese, to create your ultimate grilled cheese sandwich. Enjoy!
Cheddar Cheese's Glycemic Index: Understanding the Impact
You may want to see also
Bake or cook it into mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic dish that can be made in a variety of ways, but baking it with cheddar cheese takes it to the next level. Here's a detailed guide on how to bake or cook a block of cheddar cheese into mac and cheese:
Ingredients
For this recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Elbow pasta or any tubular pasta
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk
- Cheddar cheese (block, not pre-shredded)
- Salt and pepper (optional)
- Additional seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, etc.)
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling your chosen pasta, but make sure to cook it slightly less than al dente, about one minute less. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, and you don't want it to turn soggy. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Making the Roux
To make the creamy cheese sauce, you'll first need to create a roux. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in an equal amount of flour until it forms a bubbly and golden mixture. It's important to use cold milk at this stage to prevent the flour from clumping. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking for about 2 minutes.
Adding the Cheese
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool down a bit. Grate your block of cheddar cheese—grating it beforehand and letting it come to room temperature helps it melt smoothly and evenly in the sauce. Add the shredded cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until it melts. You can also add some salt and pepper to taste at this stage.
Combining and Baking
Now, it's time to combine the pasta and sauce. Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce until it's nicely coated. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheese on top for an extra cheesy treat. Bake in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Customizations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheddar, such as smoked cheddar, or even mix in other cheeses like Gruyere, mozzarella, or gouda. You can also add breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and parsley on top for a crispy, golden finish. Additionally, season your mac and cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, or hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Cheddar Gorge Cheese: Vegetarian-Friendly or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Include it in a casserole
If you have a block of cheddar cheese, one great way to use it is to include it in a casserole. Casseroles are a versatile dish that can be made in many different ways and are a great way to incorporate cheese. Here are some tips and ideas for including cheddar in your next casserole creation:
When it comes to casseroles, sharp cheddar cheese can be a game-changer. Its strong flavour can enhance the overall taste of the dish. If you find the flavour of sharp cheddar too intense, you can try mixing it with a milder cheese to balance it out. Grating or shredding the cheese before adding it to the casserole can also help distribute the flavour more evenly.
Cheddar cheese pairs well with a variety of ingredients commonly found in casseroles. Consider combining it with vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach. You can also add proteins such as chicken or beans to make it more substantial. For a heartier option, include some form of starch like potatoes, rice, or pasta.
When preparing the casserole, you can incorporate cheddar cheese in multiple ways. You can mix shredded or grated cheddar into the casserole mixture to create a cheesy, gooey texture. Alternatively, you can use sliced or cubed cheddar as a topping for the casserole, creating a crispy, golden crust.
If you're looking for specific casserole recipes that feature cheddar cheese, there are plenty of options to explore. A classic choice is macaroni and cheese, which can be made in various ways, including baked or stovetop versions. You can also try something like a broccoli cheese casserole or a chicken and rice casserole with cheddar incorporated throughout.
Lastly, don't be afraid to experiment and create your own cheddar casserole recipes. Cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be adapted to your personal preferences. You can adjust the amount of cheese used, try combining it with other types of cheese, or add different herbs and spices to create unique flavour profiles.
Cheddar Cheese: Vegetarian-Friendly or Not?
You may want to see also
Pair it with fruit, nuts, or vegetables
Cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be paired with various fruits, nuts, and vegetables to create delicious dishes. Here are some ideas to elevate your culinary creations:
Fruits:
- Apples: Cheddar and apple is a classic combination. Try slicing up some crisp, juicy apples to go with your cheddar, or get creative and make a grilled cheese sandwich with thin slices of cheddar and apple between two slices of sourdough bread.
- Brandy Caramel Apples: For a decadent dessert option, pair your cheddar with brandy caramel apples. This combination is perfect for cheese platters or as a topping for pound cake.
Nuts:
- Walnuts and Blackberries: Cube your cheddar cheese and serve it with walnuts and blackberries. This combination makes for an elegant and tasty party snack.
- Dried Fruit and Almonds: Another nut-and-cheese pairing suggestion is to serve cubed cheddar with dried fruit and almonds. This option offers a mix of textures and flavours that will impress your guests.
Vegetables:
- Broccoli and Cauliflower: Cheddar is a fantastic complement to broccoli and cauliflower. Try baking it into a casserole or gratin, or melting it over steamed or roasted broccoli or cauliflower florets.
- Potatoes: Cheddar and potatoes are a match made in heaven. Try melting cheddar over baked, mashed, scalloped, or fried potatoes for a hearty and indulgent side dish or snack.
- Souffle: For something a little more sophisticated, try incorporating cheddar into a fluffy souffle. Serve it alongside some lightly steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Salads: Shredded cheddar can add a tangy twist to your salads. Try pairing it with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavourful dish.
Kroger's Extra Sharp Cheddar: A Gluten-Free Option?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are many recipes that use cheddar cheese, including mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, cheese soufflés, cheese biscuits, and cheddar-bacon biscuits.
Hold a sharp knife at a 45-degree angle diagonally across one corner of the cheese block and slice straight down to get a thin strip. Repeat this process on the opposite corner. You'll get wider slices each time, and the end of the block will become narrower. Once the end of the block is about 2 inches wide, you can also slice from the end.
Cheddar cheese goes well with grains, vegetables, eggs, burgers, tacos, ham, apples, and potatoes.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese can be used in casseroles, mac and cheese, scrambled eggs, grilled cheese, cheese dip, spinach artichoke dip, stuffed chicken breast, tacos, or burgers. It can also be mixed with a milder cheese to balance out the flavour.
You can store cheddar cheese in the freezer. Portion it up and freeze it in handful-sized batches.
