Are you a fan of Oaxaca cheese? If so, you’re in luck because we’ve got 18 creamy Oaxaca cheese recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings! This Mexican string cheese is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from traditional tamales and enchiladas to more modern creations like grilled vegetable skewers and breakfast burritos. Whether you’re looking for a comforting casserole or a flavorful dip, we’ve got you covered with these 18 delicious Oaxaca cheese recipes.
From savory stuffed peppers and quesadillas to sweet potato casserole and mushroom risotto, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy Oaxaca cheese dishes. And the best part? Most of these recipes are easy to make and require minimal ingredients, so you can get creative without breaking a sweat!
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering Oaxaca cheese recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic Mexican dishes to modern twists and creative combinations, we’ve got the ultimate guide to getting the most out of this amazing cheese.
So what are you waiting for? Dive in and start cooking with these 18 creamy Oaxaca cheese recipes!
Oaxaca Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Savor the rich flavors of Oaxaca cheese and tender peppers in this simple yet satisfying recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these stuffed peppers are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix Oaxaca cheese, cooked rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Oaxaca Cheese Enchiladas
A classic Mexican dish gets a creamy twist with this recipe featuring rich Oaxaca cheese, tender tortillas, and a velvety tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Dip each tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, until pliable and slightly charred.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the crumbled Oaxaca cheese and grated Cheddar cheese.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by dipping a tortilla in the cheese mixture, rolling, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolled tortillas, then drizzle with heavy cream.
7. Sprinkle cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Chorizo Quesadillas
These quesadillas combine the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese with the spicy kick of chorizo, wrapped in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup cooked chorizo, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together Oaxaca cheese, chorizo, onion, and jalapeño.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
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.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per batch of 4 quesadillas.
Grilled Oaxaca Cheese and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled Oaxaca Cheese and Vegetable Skewers: A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional grilled cheese, these skewers are perfect for a quick and easy meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Oaxaca cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a piece of Oaxaca cheese onto each skewer, followed by a few pieces of bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Poblano Chile Rellenos
A classic Mexican dish that combines the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese with the bold flavor of roasted poblano peppers. This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional chile rellenos.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 egg beaten with a fork for coating
Instructions:
1. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with vegetable oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until charred.
2. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and cut a slit down one side to create a pocket.
3. In a bowl, mix together Oaxaca cheese, chopped onion, and garlic.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
5. Coat the stuffed peppers with beaten egg (if using) and then coat in breadcrumbs or flour for added crunch.
6. Fry the peppers in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Corn Tamales
These tender tamales are filled with the creamy goodness of Oaxaca cheese, sweet corn, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine masa harina, shortening, and warm water in a large bowl. Mix until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix Oaxaca cheese, corn kernels, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay a corn husk flat on a surface. Place 1/4 cup of the masa mixture onto the center of the husk, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of the cheese-corn filling to the center of the masa.
5. Fold the sides and top of the tamale over the filling, forming a neat package.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients and cooking time.
Cooking Time: Steam tamales for 45-60 minutes or cook in boiling water for 30-40 minutes.
Oaxaca Cheese and Black Bean Tostadas
These crispy tostadas are filled with the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese, the savory flavor of black beans, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1/2 cup crumbled Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush both sides of the tortillas with a little vegetable oil.
3. Arrange the tortillas on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and lightly browned.
4. Spread a spoonful of warmed black beans onto each toasted tortilla.
5. Top with crumbled Oaxaca cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Avocado Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic breakfast burrito. This recipe combines creamy Oaxaca cheese, ripe avocado, and scrambled eggs for a delicious and filling morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked scrambled eggs
– 1/2 cup crumbled Oaxaca cheese
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the scrambled eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the burritos by spreading a spoonful of eggs onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of Oaxaca cheese and some diced avocado.
4. Add any desired toppings, such as salsa or cilantro.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat burrito shape.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including warming tortillas)
Oaxaca Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a juicy chicken breast. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 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 Oaxaca cheese, spinach, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the Oaxaca cheese mixture.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Shrimp Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this vibrant dish, where tender shrimp and creamy Oaxaca cheese are wrapped in roasted poblano peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 10-12 minutes, or until the skin is charred and blistered.
3. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and cut a slit down one side of each pepper.
4. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened (1 minute).
5. Add the shrimp and cumin; cook until pink and just done (2-3 minutes).
6. Stuff each pepper with the shrimp mixture, then top with Oaxaca cheese.
7. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Potato Empanadas
These savory empanadas are a delicious twist on the classic Mexican pastry, filled with melted Oaxaca cheese and tender potatoes. Perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 medium potato, cooked and diced
+ 1 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
+ 1/2 onion, finely chopped
+ 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and warm water; mix until dough forms.
3. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into disk shapes.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of potato mixture onto center of each disk. Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Caramelized Onion Pizza
Oaxaca Cheese and Caramelized Onion Pizza: A savory blend of Oaxaca cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and crispy crust comes together to create a mouthwatering pizza that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Top with caramelized onions (cook onions in a pan with garlic over low heat for 30 minutes), Oaxaca cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Roasted Garlic Dip
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this creamy and aromatic dip, perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer. With roasted garlic adding depth and Oaxaca cheese providing creaminess, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Oaxaca cheese (about 8 oz), crumbled
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil, drizzle with a little olive oil, and roast for about 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, crumbled Oaxaca cheese, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including roasting garlic)
Oaxaca Cheese and Jalapeño Cornbread
This cornbread recipe combines the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeños, perfect for those who like a little heat in their baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup crumbled Oaxaca cheese
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, Oaxaca cheese, and diced jalapeños. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your stuffed peppers game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, creamy Oaxaca cheese, and sweet bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, followed by crumbled Oaxaca cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Sweet Potato Casserole
A delicious fusion of traditional Mexican flavors and comforting sweet potatoes, this casserole is perfect for a cozy night in. The creamy Oaxaca cheese and caramelized sweet potatoes will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sweet potato slices in batches and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes per batch.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the crumbled Oaxaca cheese and heavy cream. Mix well to combine.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of sweet potatoes. Top with half of the Oaxaca cheese mixture, followed by another layer of sweet potatoes. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese mixture on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful risotto infused with the richness of Oaxaca cheese and the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms. Perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Oaxaca cheese
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup broth and stir until almost fully absorbed. Repeat process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in Oaxaca cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Oaxaca Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Zucchini
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of summer squash. By stuffing zucchinis with a mixture of creamy Oaxaca cheese, spicy chorizo, and fresh cilantro, you’ll create a dish that’s both vibrant and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup Oaxaca cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup cooked chorizo sausage, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a bowl, combine Oaxaca cheese, chorizo, cilantro, and garlic.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the mixture, dividing it evenly among the four.
5. Brush the tops of the zucchinis with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Oaxaca cheese, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, is the star of this collection of 18 delicious recipes. From traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and chile rellenos to innovative twists like grilled vegetable skewers and roasted garlic dip, these recipes showcase the versatility of Oaxaca cheese. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast burrito or a comforting casserole, there’s something here for everyone. Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of this beloved Mexican cheese!