18 Delicious Easy Cheese Recipes for Beginners

Dive into the creamy, dreamy world of cheese with our roundup of 18 Delicious Easy Cheese Recipes for Beginners! Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, craving some gooey comfort food, or just looking to impress with minimal effort, these recipes are your ticket to cheesy bliss. Perfect for home cooks of all levels, get ready to fall in love with cheese all over again. Let’s get melting!

Cheesy Garlic Bread

Forget about settling for store-bought when you can whip up this cheesy garlic bread in no time. It’s crispy, garlicky, and loaded with melty cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French bread, sliced in half lengthwise
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• a splash of olive oil
• a couple of tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread. Tip: For extra flavor, let the butter mixture sit for 10 minutes before spreading.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the buttered bread. Tip: Mix the cheeses together beforehand for even distribution.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Tip: Broil for the last 2 minutes for a crispier top.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Here’s how it turns out: The edges are perfectly crispy, while the inside stays soft and buttery. Serve it alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal, or cut into strips for a party appetizer.

Easy Mac and Cheese

Simple mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, ready in minutes. Skip the boxed stuff—this homemade version is just as easy but way tastier.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• A pinch of salt
• A splash of water

Instructions

1. Boil a splash of water in a large pot over high heat.
2. Add the elbow macaroni and a pinch of salt to the boiling water. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Tip: Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust consistency later.
4. Turn the heat to low. Add the butter and milk to the pot, stirring until the butter melts.
5. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until smooth. Tip: For extra creaminess, add more milk a tablespoon at a time.
6. If the sauce is too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time. Tip: Always add liquid slowly to avoid making the sauce too runny.
7. Remove from heat once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce coats the macaroni evenly.

Now you’ve got a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect as is or jazzed up with toppings like crispy bacon or breadcrumbs. Never settle for bland mac and cheese again.

Three Cheese Pizza

Ready to dive into a cheesy delight? This three cheese pizza is a simple yet irresistible dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza dough (or your favorite homemade recipe)
• A splash of olive oil
• 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
• A couple of cups of shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup of grated parmesan
• 1/2 cup of crumbled gorgonzola
• A pinch of salt
• A sprinkle of dried oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F. Tip: A hot oven is key for a crispy crust.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Tip: For a thinner crust, roll it out more; for thicker, less.
3. Transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet or pizza stone.
4. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil. This adds flavor and prevents sogginess.
5. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella, parmesan, and gorgonzola evenly over the sauce. Tip: Mixing the cheeses gives a more uniform flavor.
7. Add a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of oregano on top.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Let this pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. The blend of cheeses offers a creamy, tangy, and slightly sharp flavor profile. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.

Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

Just when you thought meatballs couldn’t get any better, here comes cheese stuffed meatballs. Perfect for game night or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• A splash of milk
• A couple of garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper until just combined. Tip: Don’t overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Take a small portion of the meat mixture, flatten it in your hand, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and roll into a ball. Repeat. Tip: Wet your hands to prevent sticking.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2 minutes per side. Tip: Do this in batches to avoid crowding.
5. Transfer meatballs to a baking dish, pour marinara sauce over, and bake for 20 minutes.

Bursting with cheesy goodness, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser. Serve them over spaghetti or as a hearty appetizer.

Quick Cheese Quesadilla

You’ve got those days when only a cheesy, crispy quesadilla will do. Here’s how to whip one up in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 large flour tortillas
• A couple of handfuls of shredded cheddar cheese
• A splash of vegetable oil
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat (about 350°F).
2. Drizzle a splash of vegetable oil in the skillet, spreading it evenly.
3. Place one flour tortilla in the skillet, letting it warm for about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle a couple of handfuls of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tortilla.
5. Top with the second tortilla, pressing down lightly.
6. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy.
7. Flip the quesadilla carefully using a spatula.
8. Cook the other side for another 2 minutes, or until golden and the cheese is melted.
9. Remove from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before cutting.
10. Cut into wedges and serve immediately.

Just out of the skillet, the quesadilla is gloriously crispy with a gooey cheese center. Try dipping it in salsa or sour cream for an extra kick.

Creamy Cheese Dip

You’ll love this creamy cheese dip for its simplicity and rich flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
• A splash of milk
• A couple of dashes of garlic powder
• 1 tbsp of butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and softened cream cheese. Tip: Let the cream cheese sit out for 30 minutes to soften naturally.
3. Add a splash of milk to the cheese mixture to loosen it up. Stir until smooth.
4. Mix in a couple of dashes of garlic powder for flavor. Tip: Fresh minced garlic can be used for a sharper taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish. Tip: Use a small dish for a thicker dip or a larger one for a thinner layer.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
7. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dip thicken slightly.

Serve this dip warm for the best texture. The creamy consistency pairs well with crunchy veggies or crusty bread. Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.

Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken

Unbelievably easy yet impressively delicious, this cheese and spinach stuffed chicken is a weeknight hero. You’ll love the juicy chicken paired with the creamy, cheesy spinach filling.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• A couple of cups of fresh spinach
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• A splash of olive oil
• 1 tsp of garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 1/4 tsp of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with a splash of olive oil.
2. In a bowl, mix the fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being sure not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, then seal the opening with toothpicks.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.

When served, the chicken is succulent with a golden exterior, while the filling is luxuriously melted and flavorful. Try slicing it and serving over a bed of wild rice for an elegant presentation.

Simple Cheese Soufflé

Easy to make yet impressive, this Simple Cheese Soufflé is a foolproof way to dazzle at brunch. Light, airy, and packed with flavor, it’s simpler than you think.

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp butter, plus extra for greasing
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk, warmed up a bit
• A pinch of salt
• A couple of grinds of black pepper
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• A splash of hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 1.5-quart soufflé dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tbsp flour until smooth, about 1 minute.
3. Gradually add 1 cup warm milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and a couple of grinds of black pepper. Stir in 1 cup grated Gruyère until melted. Let cool slightly.
5. Whisk in 4 egg yolks one at a time, then a splash of hot sauce if using.
6. In a clean bowl, beat 4 egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the cheese mixture.
7. Pour into the prepared dish. Run your thumb around the edge to create a gap for the soufflé to rise evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until puffed and golden. Do not open the oven door during the first 20 minutes.

Velvety inside with a golden crust, this soufflé pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad. For a twist, add chopped herbs to the batter before baking.

Cheese and Bacon Potato Skins

Got a craving for something crispy, cheesy, and downright delicious? These Cheese and Bacon Potato Skins are your answer. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 4 medium russet potatoes
• a couple of tablespoons olive oil
• a pinch of salt
• 6 strips bacon, cooked crispy
• a cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• a splash of sour cream
• a handful of chopped green onions

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry.
3. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork.
4. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
5. Bake directly on the oven rack for 50-60 minutes, until tender.
6. Let the potatoes cool for 10 minutes. Tip: They’re easier to handle when slightly cooled.
7. Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
8. Scoop out the insides, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell. Tip: Save the scooped-out potato for another use, like mashed potatoes.
9. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F.
10. Place the potato skins on a baking sheet, skin side down.
11. Bake for 10 minutes to crisp up.
12. Flip the skins and bake for another 10 minutes.
13. Crumble the bacon and sprinkle it over the skins.
14. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
15. Bake for 5 more minutes, until the cheese is bubbly. Tip: Watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.
16. Dollop with sour cream and sprinkle with green onions.

Crispy on the outside, loaded with flavor inside, these potato skins are a crowd-pleaser. Try serving them with a side of spicy ranch for an extra kick.

Easy Cheese Fondue

You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser at home. Easy Cheese Fondue is your go-to for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup of shredded Emmental cheese
• 1 clove of garlic, halved
• 1 cup of dry white wine
• A splash of lemon juice
• A couple of teaspoons of cornstarch
• A pinch of nutmeg
• Freshly ground black pepper, to your liking

Instructions

1. Rub the inside of a medium saucepan with the halved garlic clove.
2. Pour the white wine into the saucepan and heat over medium until it simmers.
3. Add a splash of lemon juice to the wine.
4. Gradually add the shredded cheeses, stirring constantly in a zigzag pattern to prevent clumping.
5. Once the cheese is melted, sprinkle in the cornstarch, continuing to stir.
6. Season with a pinch of nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper.
7. Keep stirring until the fondue is smooth and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.

Get ready for a velvety, rich fondue that’s perfect with crusty bread or steamed veggies. For a fun twist, try dipping apple slices or pretzels for a sweet and salty combo.

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

You’ll love this Cheesy Broccoli Casserole for its simplicity and comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of chopped broccoli florets
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
• A splash of olive oil
• A couple of garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 1/4 tsp of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add chopped broccoli to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender.
4. Transfer the broccoli to a baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Pour milk over the broccoli, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Layers of creamy cheese and tender broccoli make every bite satisfying. Try serving it with a side of crusty bread for extra crunch.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Craving something simple yet satisfying? A grilled cheese sandwich is your go-to comfort food, ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of your favorite bread
• A couple of tbsp butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• A splash of milk (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Tip: A cast-iron skillet gives the best even heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice. This will be the outer part of your sandwich.
3. Place one slice, buttered side down, in the skillet. Quickly add the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
4. Cover with the second slice of bread, buttered side up. Tip: Covering the skillet with a lid helps the cheese melt faster.
5. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Flip carefully with a spatula.
6. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until equally golden and the cheese is fully melted. Tip: Press down lightly with the spatula to ensure even browning.
7. Remove from heat. Let it sit for a minute before cutting to allow the cheese to set slightly.

Nothing beats the crispy, buttery exterior with the gooey, melted cheese inside. Try dipping it in tomato soup for an extra cozy meal.

Cheese and Herb Scones

Fluffy, buttery scones packed with sharp cheese and fresh herbs are the perfect savory treat for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (think chives, parsley, or thyme)
• 3/4 cup milk, plus a splash more for brushing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Tip: Keep the butter cold for flakier scones.
4. Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs until evenly distributed.
5. Pour in the milk and stir just until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle.
7. Cut the dough into 8 wedges and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush the tops of the scones with a splash of milk for a golden finish.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden and firm to the touch. Tip: Check at 15 minutes to avoid overbaking.
10. Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before serving. Tip: They’re best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.

Just out of the oven, these scones are irresistibly flaky with a rich, cheesy center and a hint of herbaceous freshness. Serve them alongside a bowl of soup or split and slathered with butter for a simple, satisfying snack.

Easy Cheese Ball

Just in time for your next gathering, this Easy Cheese Ball is a no-fuss, crowd-pleaser. Jazz up your snack table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
• A splash of Worcestershire sauce
• A couple of green onions, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
• A pinch of garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the shredded cheddar and softened cream cheese until well combined.
2. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of garlic powder to the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly.
3. Fold in the finely chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
4. Shape the mixture into a ball with your hands. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
5. Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans until fully coated. Tip: Press the pecans gently to ensure they stick.
6. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Tip: Chilling firms it up, making it easier to serve.

Kick your snack game up a notch with this Easy Cheese Ball. Its creamy interior and crunchy pecan coating offer a delightful contrast. Serve with crackers or apple slices for a sweet and savory twist.

Cheese and Onion Pie

Oven-ready and oh-so-simple, this Cheese and Onion Pie is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any meal. Layers of sharp cheddar and sweet onions encased in a flaky crust make it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• A splash of ice water
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup milk
• A couple of eggs
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Add butter and rub it in until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Add ice water, a splash at a time, until the dough comes together. Tip: Don’t overwork the dough to keep it flaky.
4. Roll out half the dough and line a pie dish. Chill for 15 minutes.
5. Sauté onions in a pan until soft and golden, about 10 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
6. Layer half the cheese, all the onions, then the remaining cheese in the pie crust.
7. Whisk eggs and milk together, then pour over the filling.
8. Roll out the remaining dough, cover the pie, and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits on top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is set. Tip: Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
10. Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Tip: This helps the filling set for cleaner slices.

Golden and bubbling, this pie offers a perfect contrast of textures—crispy crust against a soft, savory filling. Serve it warm with a side of crisp greens for a balanced meal.

Simple Cheese Crackers

Very few snacks hit the spot like homemade cheese crackers. They’re crispy, cheesy, and ridiculously easy to make.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp of cold butter, cubed
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• A splash of cold water
• A pinch of salt
• A couple of dashes of garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, combine the flour, butter, cheese, salt, and garlic powder. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add a splash of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together. Tip: Don’t overprocess, or the crackers will be tough.
4. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
5. Cut the dough into small squares or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes. Tip: A pizza cutter makes quick work of this step.
6. Place the crackers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Tip: Keep an eye on them after 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
8. Let the crackers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Delightfully crisp with a sharp cheesy flavor, these crackers are perfect on their own or paired with your favorite dip. Try serving them alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting snack.

Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños

Now, let’s dive into making Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños, a spicy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

– 12 fresh jalapeños
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– A splash of lime juice
– A pinch of salt
– A couple of dashes of garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds and membranes with a spoon. Tip: Wear gloves to avoid skin irritation from the jalapeños.
3. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, lime juice, salt, and garlic powder until well combined. Tip: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for easier mixing.
4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, pressing it in firmly. Tip: Use a piping bag for a cleaner, more even fill.
5. Place the stuffed jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

The Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños come out with a creamy, molten center and a crisp, slightly charred exterior. Serve them with a cold beer or as a bold topping for burgers.

Easy Cheese and Tomato Pasta

Let’s dive into making this simple yet satisfying Easy Cheese and Tomato Pasta. Perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 8 oz of your favorite pasta
• A couple of garlic cloves, minced
• A splash of olive oil
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
• A pinch of red pepper flakes
• A handful of fresh basil, chopped
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella
• A half cup of grated Parmesan
• Salt, just enough to season

Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Crush some tomatoes with the back of your spoon for a thicker sauce.
4. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the pan with the tomato sauce. Toss well to combine. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly.
6. Finish by mixing in the chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Melted cheese clings to every strand of pasta, while the tomatoes add a bright acidity. Try topping with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of freshness.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 Delicious Easy Cheese Recipes for Beginners inspires you to explore the wonderful world of cheese in your kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack or a cozy dinner, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next cheesy adventure. Happy cooking!