Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, gooey, and perfectly browned provolone cheese. It’s a simple pleasure, yet so incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a cheesy snack, or a delicious addition to your next gathering, baking provolone cheese is the answer. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve provolone perfection every time. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right cheese to adding flavorful herbs and spices, and even offer some creative serving suggestions. Get ready to elevate your cheese game with this easy and delicious provolone cheese recipe!
This baked provolone recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and its simplicity is its greatest strength. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Think of it as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and toppings to create your own signature baked provolone cheese masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for those who are short on time but still crave something delicious and impressive.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-12 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 |
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Protein | 15-20g |
| Carbohydrates | 2-3g |
Ingredients for Baked Provolone Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious baked provolone cheese appetizer. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking, especially when it comes to herbs and spices.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Provolone Cheese (block or slices) | 8-12 ounces |
| Olive Oil | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Pepper Flakes (optional) | Pinch |
| Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the provolone cheese to melt evenly without burning.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a small oven-safe baking dish or skillet with olive oil. This prevents the cheese from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Provolone: If using a block of provolone cheese, slice it into ½-inch thick slices. Arrange the provolone cheese slices or the block in the prepared baking dish. You can overlap the slices slightly if needed.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Drizzle the remaining olive oil evenly over the provolone cheese. This adds flavor and helps the cheese to brown nicely.
- Sprinkle with herbs and spices: Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) evenly over the provolone cheese. Be generous with the herbs and spices, as they will infuse the cheese with delicious flavor.
- Bake the provolone: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the provolone cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while the provolone cheese is warm and gooey.
This baked provolone cheese is unbelievably easy to make, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking is simply irresistible. The combination of the melted, slightly tangy provolone cheese with the aromatic herbs and spices is a match made in culinary heaven. This appetizer is always a hit, whether you’re serving it at a casual get-together or a more formal dinner party.
Serving Suggestions
Baked provolone cheese is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions:
- With crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, for dipping into the melted cheese.
- With crackers: Offer a selection of crackers, such as water crackers or sesame crackers, for a lighter option.
- With vegetables: Serve with raw vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, for a healthy and refreshing accompaniment.
- On sandwiches: Use the baked provolone cheese as a filling for sandwiches or paninis.
- In salads: Crumble the baked provolone cheese over salads for added flavor and texture.
- As a topping for pasta: Use the baked provolone cheese as a topping for pasta dishes, such as spaghetti or lasagna.
The beauty of this baked provolone cheese recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your own taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, you can use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or fontina, or add different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or thyme. You can also add vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers, for added flavor and texture.
Provolone cheese, when baked, transforms into a delicious, gooey delight. The subtle tang of the cheese is enhanced by the heat, creating a flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated. This recipe is perfect for those who love cheese but are looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy it. The baked provolone cheese is also a great source of protein and calcium, making it a healthy and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Experiment with different types of provolone cheese to find your favorite. Some varieties are sharper and more flavorful than others. You can also use smoked provolone cheese for a unique and smoky flavor.
This simple baked provolone cheese recipe is a true testament to the fact that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of perfectly baked provolone cheese!
Tips and Notes for Perfect Baked Provolone Cheese
- Use high-quality provolone cheese: The better the quality of the provolone cheese, the better the flavor of the finished dish.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Make sure the provolone cheese slices are arranged in a single layer to ensure even melting.
- Keep a close eye on the cheese: Provolone cheese can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it while it’s baking.
- Serve immediately: Baked provolone cheese is best served immediately while it’s warm and gooey.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to add other toppings, such as sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, or olives, for added flavor and texture.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the richness of the cheese.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
In conclusion, baking provolone cheese is a fantastic way to enjoy this versatile cheese. It’s quick, easy, and the results are incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The rich, melted provolone, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in countless ways. So, go ahead and try this recipe – you won’t be disappointed! The magic of baked provolone cheese awaits you, promising a simple yet unforgettable culinary experience. The key to perfect baked provolone lies in the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail. Make sure to use a good quality provolone cheese and don’t overbake it, as it can become rubbery. With these simple tips in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that’s both delicious and impressive.
The allure of baked provolone is its simplicity and its ability to transform humble ingredients into something truly special. It’s a dish that’s perfect for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions. The warmth of the melted cheese, the fragrance of the herbs, and the satisfaction of dipping into it with crusty bread – it’s a sensory experience that’s hard to beat. This recipe is a celebration of the simple pleasures in life, and it’s a reminder that you don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques to create something truly delicious.
So, embrace the joy of baking provolone cheese and let your culinary creativity shine. Experiment with different flavors, try new toppings, and make this recipe your own. The possibilities are endless, and the rewards are well worth the effort. This baked provolone cheese recipe is more than just a recipe – it’s an invitation to create, to share, and to savor the simple joys of life. Make sure to always use oven mitts when handling the hot baking dish.
