Are you a fan of rich, creamy cheeses with a nutty flavor? Look no further than Manchego, Spain’s beloved sheep’s milk cheese. With its distinctive golden color and smooth texture, Manchego is a perfect addition to any dish, from savory snacks to decadent desserts. In this article, we’ll explore the world of Manchego cheese recipes, featuring 18 mouthwatering dishes that showcase its versatility and deliciousness.
From classic tapas to innovative main courses, these recipes highlight the best of Manchego’s creamy goodness. Whether you’re a cheese aficionado or just looking for new ideas, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of delectable dishes.
Manchego Cheese and Chorizo Croquettes
These crispy croquettes are a delicious twist on traditional Spanish tapas, combining the rich flavors of Manchego cheese, spicy chorizo sausage, and crunchy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup cooked chorizo sausage, crumbled
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together Manchego cheese, chorizo sausage, and a pinch of salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Add the egg to the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and mix until a thick batter forms.
5. Using your hands, shape the batter into small croquettes (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
6. Fry the croquettes in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Manchego Quiche
Roasted Red Pepper and Manchego Quiche Recipe
Elevate your brunch game with this savory quiche featuring roasted red peppers and Manchego cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, Manchego cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange roasted red peppers on the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the peppers.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the quiche.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Note: To roast red peppers, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred. Let cool, then peel off skin and chop into pieces.
Manchego Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines earthy mushrooms with creamy Manchego cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Manchego cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp paper towel.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with the Manchego mixture.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is melted and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Manchego Cheese Sandwich with Fig Jam
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this unique combination of creamy Manchego cheese, sweet fig jam, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp fig jam
– 1 tsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with Manchego cheese and fig jam.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Serrano Ham Tapas
A classic Spanish combination, this tapas recipe pairs the rich, nutty flavor of Manchego cheese with the savory, slightly sweet taste of Serrano ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Manchego cheese (about 8 oz)
– 6 slices of Serrano ham
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, place the Manchego cheese block on a cutting board and slice into thin wedges.
4. Assemble the tapas by placing a toasted baguette round on each plate, topping with a slice of Serrano ham, and finishing with a wedge of Manchego cheese.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Manchego Cheese Polenta
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy polenta infused with the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese, divided
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the butter and stir until melted.
4. Stir in 1/4 cup of the Manchego cheese until smooth.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring often, until the polenta is creamy and tender.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of Manchego cheese until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Creamy Manchego cheese and spinach come together to create a delicious filling that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled Manchego cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, Manchego cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-Manchego mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Caramelized Onion Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the richness of Manchego cheese with the deep flavor of caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Manchego cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions and garlic over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Arrange the onion mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Manchego cheese evenly over the onions.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush the top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with salt.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Almond Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this creamy and refreshing gazpacho recipe, infused with the richness of Manchego cheese and the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, onion)
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mixed vegetables, Manchego cheese, almonds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with additional sliced almonds and a sprinkle of Manchego cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (blending time) + chilling time
Manchego Cheese and Pear Salad with Walnuts
This simple yet elegant salad combines the sweetness of pears with the savory flavor of Manchego cheese, all tied together with crunchy walnuts. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 8 oz Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced pear and crumbled Manchego cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the pear mixture.
3. Add the chopped walnuts and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Potato Gratin
A rich and creamy gratin that combines the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese with the comforting warmth of potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and Manchego cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
4. Pour the hot cream over the potato mixture, tossing to coat.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Chorizo Empanadas
These savory empanadas are filled with the rich flavors of Spain, featuring Manchego cheese and spicy chorizo. Perfect for a snack or appetizer, they’re easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 4-6 slices of cooked chorizo, diced
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Manchego cheese and chorizo.
4. Spoon a tablespoon of the cheese-chorizo mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Press edges together to seal and use a fork to crimp.
7. Place empanadas on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush tops with remaining egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Asparagus Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the rich flavors of Manchego cheese, tender asparagus, and saffron-infused broth for a truly Spanish-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, grated
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Add white wine (optional) and cook until absorbed.
7. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
8. Stir in Manchego cheese and saffron-infused water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Olive Tapenade Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet elegant recipe, combining the rich flavors of Manchego cheese, olive tapenade, and crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup olive tapenade
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and lightly toasted.
5. Meanwhile, spread a small amount of olive tapenade onto each crostini round.
6. Top with crumbled Manchego cheese.
7. Garnish with chopped thyme leaves, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 20-25 crostini
Manchego Cheese and Pumpkin Ravioli
This seasonal ravioli recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of roasted pumpkin with the nutty richness of Manchego cheese. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Manchego cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh sage leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss pumpkin with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and Manchego cheese. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll out each part to a thin sheet (about 1/16 inch thick).
5. Place roasted pumpkin puree on one half of the sheet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Cook ravioli in boiling, salted water for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Serve with your favorite fall-inspired sauce.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Garlic Herb Focaccia
Elevate your snack game with this savory and aromatic focaccia, infused with the rich flavors of Manchego cheese, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Manchego cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough; transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with Manchego cheese, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Shrimp Paella
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this creamy Manchego cheese and succulent shrimp paella recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, shredded
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add rice, water, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Remove from heat; stir in shredded Manchego cheese until melted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Manchego Cheese and Apple Galette
This galette combines the richness of Manchego cheese with the natural sweetness of apples, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup Manchego cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apple slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle crumbled Manchego cheese and drizzle with honey over the apples.
5. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with a little water and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering recipes featuring the star ingredient – Manchego cheese! From savory tapas and sandwiches to creamy pasta dishes and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Try making croquettes with chorizo and Manchego, a quiche with roasted red peppers, or stuffed mushrooms filled with Manchego goodness. Or go sweet with a grilled Manchego sandwich paired with fig jam or a Manchego and pear salad with walnuts. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
