Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese

Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese is made with Italian Fontina Val d’Aosta cheese, good olive oil, garlic cloves, fresh thyme leaves, and fresh rosemary leaves. This easy Baked Fontina Cheese recipe creates an cheesy appetizer that takes about 20 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Baked Fontina Cheese Recipe:

• Exceptional Flavor: The combination of Italian Fontina Val d’Aosta cheese, fresh herbs, and garlic creates a rich and aromatic taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal preparation and just a few ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for a quick appetizer or a special occasion treat.
• Interactive Dining: This dish is served directly in the skillet and is meant to be shared. It’s perfect for gathering around the table and enjoying a communal eating experience.
• Versatility: While it’s perfect with a crusty baguette, you can also serve this melted cheese with vegetables, crackers, or sliced meats, making it adaptable for different tastes and occasions.

Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese Ingredients

• 1½ pounds Italian Fontina Val d’Aosta cheese, rind removed and 1-inch-diced
• ¼ cup good olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary leaves
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 crusty French baguette

How To Make Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese

1. Preheat Broiler: Preheat the broiler and position the oven rack 5 inches from the heat.
2. Prepare Cheese: Distribute the cubes of Fontina evenly in a 12-inch cast-iron pan.
3. Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the sliced garlic, minced thyme, and rosemary.
4. Add Oil and Seasonings: Drizzle olive oil over the cheese, then sprinkle the mixed seasonings evenly on top. Add the salt and pepper.
5. Broil: Place the pan under the broiler for 6 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and starts to brown.
6. Serve: Serve the baked Fontina directly from the oven in the cast-iron pan. Accompany with chunks of crusty French baguette for dipping.

Recipe Tips

• Use the Right Cheese: Make sure to use Italian Fontina Val d’Aosta cheese. It melts better and tastes very good.
• Remove All the Rind: Take off the rind of the cheese before you cut it. This helps the cheese melt well.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Chop fresh thyme and rosemary very small. This makes the cheese taste better.
• Watch the Cheese: When you put the cheese under the broiler, watch it carefully. It can burn fast. Take it out when it’s bubbly and just starting to brown.
• Serve It Hot: Serve the cheese right after you take it out of the oven. Get everything ready before so you can enjoy it warm.

What To Serve With Baked Fontina Cheese?

This cheesy Baked Fontina Cheese goes great with crunchy bread, steamed asparagus, roasted tomatoes, or olives. You can also serve it with a fresh salad, meats and cheeses, stuffed peppers, or mushrooms cooked with garlic.

How To Store Leftovers Baked Fontina Cheese?

• Refrigerate: Store leftover baked Fontina cheese in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: Freezing this dish is not recommended as the texture of the melted cheese may change and become grainy.

How To Reheat Leftovers Baked Fontina Cheese?

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chilled Fontina cheese in an oven-safe dish and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes or until it is just melted and warm throughout.

FAQs

Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese Nutrition Facts

• Calories 110
• Total Fat 8.8g
• Saturated Fat 5.5g
• Cholesterol 32.9mg
• Sodium 227.2mg
• Potassium 18.2mg
• Total Carbohydrate 0.44g
• Dietary Fiber 0g
• Total Sugars 0.44g
• Protein 7.3g

Try More Ina Garten Recipes:

• Ina Garten Parmesan Cheese Crisps
• Ina Garten Blue Cheese Crackers
• Ina Garten Cheese Ball Recipe
• Ina Garten Buttermilk Blue Cheese Dressing