Cotija cheese, a crumbly and tangy delight from Mexico, has won over many hearts with its versatility in both savory and sweet dishes. When melted or crumbled, it adds an unparalleled depth to any recipe. Whether you’re looking to elevate your taco game, impress your friends with creative appetizers, or simply satisfy your cravings for something new and exciting, Cotija cheese is the perfect ingredient to have up your sleeve. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the creamy, tangy goodness of Cotija cheese in all its glory.
Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese and Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your grilled corn game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of corn, the creaminess of Cotija cheese, and the spiciness of chili lime butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chili flakes or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. During the last minute of grilling, spread chili lime butter on each ear of corn.
5. Remove from grill and sprinkle with Cotija cheese.
6. Serve immediately, with additional chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cotija Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this spicy and savory recipe that combines the creaminess of Cotija cheese with the crunch of jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Cotija cheese and salt.
3. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the Cotija mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
4. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with black pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad with Cotija
This vibrant salad brings together the classic flavors of Mexico’s street corn, featuring sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise, and tangy Cotija cheese. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels, mayonnaise, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice. Stir until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Sprinkle Cotija cheese on top of the salad.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (refrigeration time)
Cotija Cheese and Avocado Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious quesadillas that combine the richness of Cotija cheese with the velvety texture of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the Cotija cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Top with sliced avocado, then fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Poblano and Cotija Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of chicken with the boldness of Poblano peppers and the creaminess of Cotija cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large Poblanos, roasted and chopped
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 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 skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped Poblanos and cook until slightly charred.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the roasted Poblanos, Cotija cheese, and garlic.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Black Bean Tostadas
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with these crispy tostadas topped with creamy Cotija cheese, savory black beans, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange tortillas on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and lightly browned.
4. Spread warmed black beans over toasted tortillas.
5. Top with crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
6. Add your favorite toppings, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Cotija Cheese Dip with Roasted Peppers
This addictive dip combines the creamy richness of Cotija cheese with the sweet and smoky flavor of roasted peppers, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 large roasted peppers (any color), peeled and seeded
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together Cotija cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, cilantro, and lime juice until smooth.
4. Add roasted peppers and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (includes roasting time)
Cotija Cheese and Mango Salsa Tacos
Experience the perfect blend of creamy cheese and sweet mango in these delicious tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or alternative protein)
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. In a separate bowl, combine Cotija cheese, mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of the Cotija cheese and mango salsa.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cotija and Cilantro
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cotija and Cilantro: A flavorful twist on a classic side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tanginess of Cotija cheese and the freshness of cilantro.
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, lime juice, and salt until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
5. Once roasted, sprinkle Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro over the sweet potatoes.
6. Serve warm.
Cotija Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful combination of earthy mushrooms, spicy chorizo, and crumbly Cotija cheese. Perfect for a party or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook chorizo over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cooked chorizo, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top each mushroom with a sprinkle of Cotija cheese and a pinch of garlic.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cotija Cheese Guacamole
Spicy Cotija Cheese Guacamole Recipe
A twist on classic guacamole, this spicy recipe adds a tangy kick from Cotija cheese and a burst of flavor from diced jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired level of heat)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Scoop the avocado flesh into a large mixing bowl.
3. Add Cotija cheese crumbles, cilantro leaves, lime juice, salt, black pepper, jalapeños, and garlic to the bowl.
4. Use a fork to mash the ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve with tortilla chips or use as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (mostly hands-off)
Cotija Cheese and Lime Shrimp Skewers
Add a burst of Mexican flavor to your summer gatherings with these easy-to-make Cotija cheese and lime shrimp skewers. Perfect for a quick appetizer or main course, these bite-sized morsels are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp and toss to coat; let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
4. Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Sprinkle Cotija cheese over the shrimp on each skewer.
6. Grill or broil skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Cornbread Muffins
These moist and savory muffins combine the richness of Cotija cheese with the warmth of cornbread, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
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 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and buttermilk.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in crumbled Cotija cheese.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Grilled Zucchini with Cotija Cheese and Herbs
This recipe is a flavorful and refreshing summer side dish that highlights the best of zucchini’s natural sweetness, paired with the tanginess of Cotija cheese and the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup Cotija cheese crumbles
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and salt.
4. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the zucchini slices.
5. Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
6. Sprinkle Cotija cheese crumbles over the grilled zucchini and top with chopped cilantro.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Pinto Bean Enchiladas
A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the creamy richness of Cotija cheese with the comforting warmth of pinto beans.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup cooked pinto beans
– 1/2 cup shredded Cotija cheese
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a separate pot, warm the enchilada sauce over low heat.
4. To assemble the enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat and spoon some of the pinto bean mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and beans.
5. Pour the warmed enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with Cotija cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful Mexican-inspired bruschetta, featuring crumbly Cotija cheese and sweet cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick snack or as a starter for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic; toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Top toasted baguette rounds with cherry tomatoes, Cotija cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Cotija Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Portobellos
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms with the creaminess of Cotija cheese and the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija 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, garlic, and Cotija cheese.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-Cotija mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Pineapple Salsa Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this unique combination of creamy Cotija cheese, sweet pineapple salsa, and crispy tortilla chips. This flavor-packed snack is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded Cotija cheese
– 1/2 cup pineapple salsa (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle shredded Cotija cheese evenly over the chips.
4. Spoon pineapple salsa over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these creamy Cotija cheese recipes! From classic Mexican dishes like street corn salad and quesadillas, to innovative twists like stuffed mushrooms and shrimp skewers, these recipes showcase the versatility of this tangy cheese. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful dip or a savory main course, there’s something for every occasion. Try making grilled zucchini with Cotija and herbs, or indulge in creamy Cotija cheese dip with roasted peppers. With 18 mouth-watering recipes to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the perfect way to incorporate this beloved cheese into your culinary repertoire.