The Best Raclette Cheese Recipes You Need to Try
If you’ve never experienced the delightful, melted goodness of raclette cheese, you’re in for a treat! Originating from Switzerland, raclette is a semi-soft, creamy cheese with a rich flavor that’s perfect for melting. Whether you’re planning a cozy family meal, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a comforting dish, raclette cheese is an excellent choice. This article will guide you through delicious raclette cheese recipes that will take your meals to the next level.
What is Raclette Cheese?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a moment to understand what raclette cheese is. Traditionally made from cow’s milk, raclette is famous for its smooth texture and unique ability to melt beautifully. The name “raclette” comes from the French word “racler,” which means “to scrape.” This is because, traditionally, the cheese is melted and scraped off the wheel directly onto your food. It’s the perfect accompaniment to potatoes, bread, and meats!
Why Use Raclette Cheese in Cooking?
Raclette cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. Its creamy and mild flavor pairs well with many ingredients, making it a staple in both traditional Swiss dishes and modern recipes. It’s not just about the flavor, though. Raclette’s ability to melt into a silky, gooey texture makes it ideal for fondues, grilled dishes, and even as a topping for baked goods.
Classic Swiss Raclette Recipe
Let’s start with the most classic raclette cheese recipe—the Swiss-style raclette. This dish is simple yet delicious, featuring melted raclette cheese served with a variety of sides. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb raclette cheese (sliced into thin pieces)
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (boiled)
- 1 cup of pickles (cornichons)
- 1 cup of pickled onions
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the potatoes: Boil the potatoes until they are tender. Once cooked, slice them into thick rounds.
- Melt the cheese: In a traditional raclette grill or a broiler, melt the slices of raclette cheese until they are bubbly and golden brown.
- Assemble the dish: Place the boiled potatoes on a serving plate, add some pickles and pickled onions on the side, and pour the melted raclette cheese over the potatoes.
- Season: Add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and fresh herbs for added flavor.
This classic Swiss dish is comfort food at its finest, perfect for a cozy evening.
Raclette Cheese Fondue
If you love cheese fondue, you’ll adore this raclette cheese fondue recipe. It’s an easy and indulgent way to enjoy the smooth, melty texture of raclette cheese, and it’s perfect for dipping bread, vegetables, and meats.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz raclette cheese
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (smashed)
- Freshly ground black pepper and nutmeg to taste
- Crusty bread, vegetables, and meats for dipping
Instructions:
- Prepare the cheese: Grate the raclette cheese and set it aside.
- Heat the wine and garlic: In a pot, combine the white wine and lemon juice. Add the smashed garlic clove and heat gently over medium heat.
- Melt the cheese: Once the wine mixture is warm, slowly add the grated raclette cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Season: Season the fondue with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Serve: Transfer the melted cheese into a fondue pot, and serve with your favorite dippers like crusty bread, fresh vegetables, and cooked meats.
This raclette fondue will become the star of your next gathering.
Raclette Grilled Sandwiches
For a quick and satisfying meal, try making raclette grilled cheese sandwiches. The gooey, melted raclette cheese is perfect for sandwiches, offering a creamy, savory twist on the classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough works great)
- 4 oz raclette cheese (sliced thin)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Optional fillings: ham, tomatoes, onions, spinach
Instructions:
- Prepare the sandwich: Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer the slices of raclette cheese. Add any optional fillings like ham, spinach, or tomatoes.
- Grill the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet, butter side facing out. Grill until golden brown on both sides, flipping carefully to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
- Serve: Once grilled to perfection, slice and serve hot. The melted raclette cheese will ooze out, creating the perfect sandwich.
These grilled sandwiches are perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Raclette Cheese and Veggie Bake
For a hearty, filling meal, try a raclette cheese and vegetable bake. This dish combines the rich flavor of melted raclette cheese with roasted vegetables, making for a delicious and satisfying casserole.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms)
- 8 oz raclette cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roast the vegetables with a bit of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Assemble the bake: In a baking dish, layer the roasted vegetables and top with slices of raclette cheese.
- Add cream and bake: Pour heavy cream over the top and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
This raclette cheese and veggie bake is a great way to enjoy a filling meal without the need for meat.
Raclette Cheese and Meat Platter
For a more indulgent take, consider a raclette cheese and meat platter. This recipe lets you enjoy raclette cheese paired with a variety of meats, from cured sausages to grilled steaks. It’s the perfect dish for a special occasion or a festive meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz raclette cheese
- Assorted meats: prosciutto, salami, grilled chicken, sausages, etc.
- Freshly baked bread
- Pickles and olives for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the meats: Arrange your assorted meats on a large platter. Feel free to grill some meats like chicken or sausages for extra flavor.
- Melt the cheese: Melt the raclette cheese using a raclette grill or broiler, scraping it onto the meats and bread.
- Assemble the platter: Place the melted cheese over the meats and serve with pickles and olives.
This raclette cheese and meat platter is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Raclette Mac and Cheese
If you’re looking to elevate the classic mac and cheese, try adding raclette cheese for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor. This indulgent dish combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the unique taste of raclette.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz raclette cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a pot, melt the butter and add the milk. Gradually add the grated raclette cheese and parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Serve hot, topped with extra grated cheese if desired.
This raclette mac and cheese is the perfect comfort food for cheese lovers.
Conclusion
Raclette cheese is a wonderfully versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes, from simple meals to extravagant spreads. Whether you’re enjoying it melted over potatoes, paired with meats, or incorporated into creamy fondues and bakes, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious cheese. Experiment with these raclette cheese recipes, and bring the rich, creamy goodness of raclette into your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a new comfort food, this cheese will never disappoint!
If you’re ready to continue exploring the world of intense, flavor-packed dishes, be sure to check out more of our recipes. Embrace the thrill of cooking with bold ingredients and discover new ways to elevate your meals!
Thank you for your interaction with us with your comment