Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Mexico with Oaxaca cheese, a stringy and melty delight that elevates any dish into a family favorite. If you’re new to this beloved cheese, we’ve got you covered with 13 mouthwatering recipes to get you started. Did you know that Oaxaca cheese is also affectionately known as Italian mozzarella? The reason lies in its history, where Mexican cheesemakers learned from Italian priests who settled in their country.
This cultural exchange resulted in a cheese that shares many similarities with its Italian counterpart, but with one key difference: Oaxaca can only be made from cow’s milk. Despite its distinct origin, Oaxaca cheese has become an integral part of Mexico’s and Latin America’s vibrant food culture. You’ll find it in street foods like tacos and empanadas, as well as in home-cooked specialties such as quesadillas.
And with its unique pronunciation (wa-ha-ka), you can easily incorporate it into your favorite meals or explore the 23 exciting Oaxaca cheese recipes we have to offer. From a satisfying brunch with our Mexican Frittata to a flavor-packed dipping sauce with Homemade Queso Fundido, Oaxaca cheese is the perfect addition to any meal. So why not give it a try? Start with one of our 13 Oaxaca cheese recipes and discover the rich flavors of Mexico for yourself.
Homemade Queso Fundido
When it comes to delicious dips, few options can rival the allure of homemade cheese dip. Specifically, Fundido is a mouthwatering creation that combines melted cheese with a medley of other ingredients, resulting in an impossibly thick and melty consistency. The savory flavor of chorizo sausage, which boasts a bold Mexican or Spanish flair, adds a meaty depth to the dish. Depending on the specific type of chorizo used, the dip can also exhibit smoky or sweet notes.
While it may have a spicy kick, the creaminess of the cheese helps temper its fiery nature. Whether you enjoy it as a complement to nachos and chips or as a sauce for game-day appetizers, Fundido is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Cheese Onion Enchiladas
If you’re familiar with rolled lasagna, you’ll appreciate this next recipe’s twist on that classic concept.
Here, each tortilla is stuffed to the brim with melted cheese, carefully wrapped into its signature roll shape.
The filled tortillas are then arranged in a large baking dish, nestled within a layer of enchilada sauce for added moisture and flavor.
Before heading into the oven, the rolled-up tortillas receive a generous topping of melted cheese, an extra drizzle of that rich tomato-ey enchilada sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions.
The combination of those bright flavors and the oven’s gentle heat yields a dish with a delightfully caramelized crust and a deep, roasted undertone.
Feel free to pair this recipe with some of your favorite Mexican-inspired sides, such as creamy coleslaw, fluffy rice, or savory black beans.
Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla
Elevate your cooking experience by streamlining kitchen processes with the help of an air fryer. Say goodbye to messy pan-cooked quesadillas and hello to a stress-free meal prep. When cooking quesadillas, it’s not uncommon for fillings to escape during flipping, making a mess that can be frustrating to clean up. However, with an air fryer, you can enjoy perfectly cooked quesadillas without the hassle.
The air fryer’s even heat distribution ensures that cheese melts seamlessly and a crispy crust forms. You’re not limited to just cheese as a filling; try using chicken or other ingredients for added variety. And when it comes to pairing your quesadillas with something delicious, consider serving them with guacamole or pico de gallo for the ultimate flavor combination.
Pork Chops Stuffed With Oaxaca Cheese & Green Chile
Hosting a backyard barbeque and looking for some mouth-watering recipes? We’ve got just the thing! For a crowd-pleasing main course, why not try our pork chop extravaganza? It’s a show-stopper that’s perfect for feeding a large group of friends and family. Simply cut thick pork chops in half, fill them with your favorite stuffing, close them up with toothpicks, and grill to perfection. The result is a deliciously smoky flavor that’s sure to impress. And the best part?
You can cook multiple chops at once, making it an effortless way to feed a big crowd. Plus, feel free to customize the dish with your own spicy rub or seasoning of choice – the possibilities are endless!
Birria Tacos
When it comes to this recipe, time is on your side. The key to success lies in cooking low and slow, allowing the beef to become tenderly fall-apart. This process requires a healthy dose of love and patience, but trust us, the end result is well worth the wait. In fact, you’ll need at least 10 hours to get it just right – but don’t worry, that’s all the more time for you to relax while the beef does its magic. To start, sear the beef to create a crispy crust and rich, caramelized flavors.
Then, let it braise with your choice of seasonings, allowing the flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.
Grilled Mexican Pizza With Salsa Verde & Chorizo
The key to crafting a restaurant-quality pizza is not just about the toppings, but also the cooking technique. A scorching hot oven is essential for cooking the pie in minutes and achieving that perfect crispy crust. But what if you don’t have access to an oven? Fear not! Cooking pizza on the grill can be a great alternative.
The high heat from the grill will give your crust a nice char, while the cherry tomatoes, with their natural sweetness, will caramelize beautifully, releasing a burst of flavor as you take a bite. Another crucial step is letting the dough rest in the fridge for at least a day to allow it to develop its chewy texture and brown evenly. And let’s not forget about the fun factor – topping the pizza with colorful veggies can be a delightful activity for kids.
Chorizo Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Who can resist a culinary spectacle featuring melted cheese in every bite? This recipe’s show-stopping finger food or appetizer is more than just a pretty face – it’s a satisfying meal when you need a hearty fix.
At the heart of this dish are poblano peppers, expertly stuffed with a flavorful blend of chorizo, beans, corn, and melted cheese. The magic happens in the oven, where the peppers transform into tender, slightly charred vessels for the savory filling.
As the ingredients steam inside, they absorb the rich flavors and get coated in an indulgent layer of melty cheese.
For those who dare to be different, feel free to swap out the poblanos for some spicy jalapeños – it’s a great way to add an extra kick to this already impressive dish.
Black Bean & Oaxaca Cheese Empanadas
For those who follow a plant-based diet, this recipe is a must-try. Inspired by traditional empanadas, these savory treats are entirely wrapped, much like a calzone or pizza pocket. The experience of biting into the light and crispy dough is truly satisfying. On the inside, you’ll find soft and thick fillings made with mashed beans and melted cheese. To add an extra layer of flavor, fresh homemade salsa is drizzled on top, providing a tangy contrast to the richness of the dish.
A squeeze of lemon or lime juice also adds a bright and refreshing touch. And while this recipe is intentionally meatless, feel free to substitute with chicken, beef, or other protein sources if you prefer.
Chicken Alambre
The allure of chicken, bacon, and chorizo is undeniable! This meaty trifecta is a recipe for culinary success. When it comes to tortilla wraps, they often serve as a satisfying appetizer or snack. A pop of color and texture comes from the addition of crunchy bell pepper strips. For added depth and creaminess, chunks of Oaxaca cheese provide a soft, chewy bite.
But what truly elevates this dish is the opportunity to add your favorite Mexican sauces, such as salsa verde or salsa macha, which can be used to amplify the flavors.
Oaxacan Frittata
Weekends are made for leisurely brunches that leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. When it comes to satisfying your morning cravings, frittata is an essential menu item.
The sweet and sour flavor profile of fresh tomatoes adds a delightful twist to this Italian-inspired dish. Moreover, these juicy gems bring an umami depth without the need for meat.
As you whisk together eggs and cheese, the mixture perfectly coats the tender onions, herbs, and tomatoes.
And let’s not forget the key to achieving a crispy and evenly cooked frittata: a sturdy, thick-bottomed pan like a trusty cast iron skillet.
Taco Quesadillas
When faced with the daunting decision between tacos and quesadillas, take heart – there’s a solution that combines the best of both worlds. Imagine a dish that seamlessly blends the savory, meaty filling of a traditional taco with the gooey, cheesy delight of a quesadilla. This game-changing recipe achieves just that by marrying the bold flavors of cumin, garlic, and chipotle powder in the taco meat with the melted magnificence of a perfectly crisped-up cheese.
By browning the meat to perfection, you’ll unlock maximum flavor, while carefully calibrated amounts of cheese ensure the tacos stay neatly folded when you take your first bite.
Chorizo Queso With Flour Tortilla Chips
When it comes to finger foods for a family movie night, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The real star of the show is the rich and creamy cheese sauce, also known as queso. This indulgent treat requires just two primary ingredients: melted cheese and savory chorizo. To prepare, simply cut up tortilla chips using a pizza slicer before frying them to a crispy perfection. The transformation from soft to crunchy is incredibly satisfying.
But what truly elevates this snack to the next level is the option to customize with added flavors like red pepper flakes, herbs, or other ingredients of your choice.
Oaxaca Grilled Cheese
Get ready for a game-changing grilled cheese experience! This isn’t your average comfort food. The addition of crispy bacon elevates it to new heights. What really sets this apart, though, is the star of the show: Oaxaca cheese. Its unique properties make it perfect for a cheesy pull that’s both gooey and stringy. And then there’s the flavor boost from adobo sauce – rich, savory, and spicy all at once.
When you combine that with the smooth, creamy chipotle crema and crispy toasted bread, you’ve got a match made in heaven.
The bottom line
One of the standout features of Oaxaca cheese is its remarkable versatility, stemming from both its rich texture and complex flavor profile. This unique combination allows it to be easily incorporated into a wide range of culinary creations.
