When it comes to rich, creamy cheese with a nutty flavor, few options can rival Manchego. Hailing from La Mancha, Spain, this semi-firm cheese has become a staple in many Spanish kitchens and restaurants around the world. Its versatility makes it an ideal addition to a wide range of dishes, from simple snacks to hearty meals.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the creamy, velvety goodness of Manchego cheese. From savory main courses to sweet treats, these recipes are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of mac and cheese or a flavorful tapas platter, our collection of Manchego-based dishes has got you covered.
Manchego Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and savory recipe. Rich Manchego cheese, spicy chorizo, and earthy mushrooms come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 12 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 4 slices of chorizo, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Manchego cheese, chorizo, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese-chorizo mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Manchego Mac and Cheese
A rich and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe infused with the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese, perfect for a comforting dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Manchego and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Fig Crostini
A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for a dinner party or casual gathering, this simple yet impressive crostini features creamy Manchego cheese paired with caramelized figs and toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of Manchego cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Top each toasted baguette slice with a round of Manchego cheese, a few caramelized figs, and a drizzle of honey.
4. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spanish Manchego Cheese Tortilla
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this classic tortilla recipe, featuring creamy Manchego cheese and a hint of smokiness from the paprika.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
4. Pour in the eggs and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the edges start to set.
5. Sprinkle the Manchego cheese and smoked paprika evenly over the tortilla.
6. Use a spatula to gently fold the edges of the tortilla towards the center, allowing the uncooked egg to flow to the edges.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are almost set and the cheese is melted.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Serrano Ham Empanadas
Discover the rich flavors of Spain with these savory empanadas, filled with creamy Manchego cheese and salty Serrano ham. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 8 oz Manchego cheese, crumbled
+ 6 slices Serrano ham, diced
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch squares.
5. Place a tablespoon of Manchego cheese and a few pieces of Serrano ham in the center of each square.
6. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or half-moon shape. Press edges together with a fork.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Roasted Garlic and Manchego Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, flavorful dip that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the nutty taste of Manchego cheese. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cloves of garlic
– 1 head of Manchego cheese, crumbled (about 8 oz)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
3. Roast the garlic for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, Manchego cheese, and heavy cream.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, savory recipe that combines the richness of Manchego cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Manchego cheese and chopped spinach.
3. Lay each chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the cheese-spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Quince Paste Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of Manchego cheese with the sweet, jammy texture of quince paste. Perfect for a quick snack or as an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block Manchego cheese (about 8 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup quince paste, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 10-12 crackers (such as water crackers or wheat thins)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place a cube of Manchego cheese on each cracker.
3. Top the cheese with a small amount of quince paste and a drizzle of honey.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Almond Gazpacho
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this refreshing gazpacho, infused with the creamy goodness of Manchego cheese and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Manchego cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, parsley, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in the crumbled Manchego cheese and sliced almonds.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Manchego Cheese and Caramelized Onion Tart
A sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, Manchego cheese, and flaky pastry, this tart is perfect for a rustic dinner party or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Spread caramelized onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle crumbled Manchego cheese over the onions.
6. Fold edges of the pastry up to create a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with this flavorful combination of Manchego cheese, roasted red peppers, and crispy tortillas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 1/2 cup roasted red pepper strips (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with Manchego cheese.
3. Top with roasted red peppers, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Manchego Cheese and Olive Tapenade Bruschetta
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful bruschetta, featuring rich Manchego cheese and savory olive tapenade. Perfect for a quick appetizer or evening pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive tapenade
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spread 1/2 teaspoon of tapenade on each toasted bread round.
5. Top each bruschetta with crumbled Manchego cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Honey Drizzled Toast
Savor the rich flavors of Spain with this simple yet elegant toast recipe. Manchego cheese, known for its nutty and slightly sweet taste, pairs perfectly with a drizzle of golden honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of rustic bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick pieces and place on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled Manchego cheese evenly over the toast slices.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
5. Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Pear Salad with Walnuts
This salad combines the rich flavors of Manchego cheese, crisp pears, and crunchy walnuts for a satisfying and flavorful treat. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear (such as Bartlett or Anjou), sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Manchego cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears and crumbled Manchego cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top of the pear mixture.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Manchego Cheese and Saffron Risotto
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this creamy risotto dish, featuring nutty Manchego cheese and subtle saffron notes. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 cup grated Manchego cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in saffron mixture and Manchego cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Smoked Paprika Gougères
These savory puffs are perfect as an appetizer or snack, combining the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese with the smoky depth of smoked paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups grated Manchego cheese
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, flour, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture forms a ball (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in Manchego cheese and smoked paprika until well combined.
4. Let cool slightly, then stir in eggs until smooth.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each gougère.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Roasted Tomato Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of rich Manchego cheese, sweet roasted tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tomatoes are tender.
4. In a blender, puree roasted tomatoes with vegetable broth and heavy cream.
5. Stir in Manchego cheese until melted.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Herb Crusted Lamb Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic lamb chop recipe, featuring the richness of Manchego cheese and a blend of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops (1 1/2 pounds)
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Manchego cheese, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the lamb chops with olive oil.
5. Coat each lamb chop evenly with the Manchego herb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Spain with these 18 creamy Manchego cheese recipes! From savory stuffed mushrooms and empanadas to sweet and tangy tartlets, these dishes showcase the versatility of this iconic Spanish cheese. Discover new ways to enjoy Manchego’s nutty flavor in mac ‘n cheese, risotto, and even gazpacho. Elevate your meals with the bold flavors of chorizo, serrano ham, and smoked paprika. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to delight!