Get ready to fall in love with the rich, crumbly flavor of Cotija cheese! This Mexican staple adds a delightful tanginess to a wide range of dishes, from savory main courses to sweet and crunchy snacks. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping party appetizer, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 creamy Cotija cheese recipes.
From classic grilled corn to innovative stuffed peppers, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the versatility of Cotija cheese. Imagine crispy fish tacos topped with crumbled Cotija and sliced avocado, or a warm quinoa salad tossed with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and a sprinkle of Cotija for added depth. The possibilities are endless!
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 delicious recipes, featuring everything from comforting mashed potatoes to spicy dips and zesty salads. So grab your apron, preheat your oven or grill, and get ready to experience the creamy, dreamy world of Cotija cheese.
Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese and Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and aromatic corn recipe, perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. This Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese and Chili Lime Butter is a twist on the classic grilled corn, adding a tangy and creamy element to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lime juice, and chili flakes (if using).
3. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. Slather Chili Lime Butter evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Sprinkle Cotija cheese over the top of each ear.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cotija Cheese Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these creamy Cotija cheese stuffed jalapeño poppers. The perfect combination of spicy and savory, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 12 large jalapeños
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika or chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully hollow out the insides, leaving a thin shell.
- In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and crumbled Cotija cheese until smooth.
- Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
- 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 Cheese
Add a burst of flavor to your summer gatherings with this vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad featuring creamy cotija cheese. This refreshing salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, mayonnaise, cilantro, cotija cheese, lime juice, and cumin. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If desired, add chopped jalapeño for an extra kick of heat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Cotija Cheese and Avocado Quesadillas
Cotija Cheese and Avocado Quesadillas: A flavorful and creamy twist on traditional quesadillas!
Ingredients:
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced avocado and crumbled Cotija cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the avocado-Cotija mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
8. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Poblano and Cotija Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the creamy richness of Cotija cheese with the bold, slightly sweet heat of Poblanos.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large Poblanos, roasted and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped Poblanos, Cotija cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the Poblano-Cotija mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cotija Cheese Crusted Fish Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this crispy and flavorful recipe, featuring sustainable fish, crunchy Cotija cheese crust, and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of sustainable white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas, for serving
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Cotija cheese.
3. Dip each fish piece into lime juice, then coat in the Cotija mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crispy.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions. Assemble tacos by placing fish on tortillas, topping with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Black Bean and Cotija Cheese Enchiladas
A flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option, these enchiladas combine the richness of black beans with the tanginess of Cotija cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup shredded Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, avocado slices, or diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add black beans and cumin; stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Dip each tortilla in the bean mixture, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon some of the remaining bean mixture onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of Cotija cheese.
6. Roll up and place seam-side down. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and enchiladas are heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with the rich flavors of Cotija cheese and roasted garlic. This creamy, cheesy side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese (or other crumbly cheese)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, roast garlic cloves in the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Mash roasted potatoes with heavy cream or milk, Cotija cheese, and roasted garlic until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cotija Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips
Spicy Cotija Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips: A Fiery Twist on a Classic Combination!
This addictive dip combines the creamy richness of Cotija cheese with the bold heat of chipotle peppers, all wrapped up in a crunchy package with tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, Cotija cheese, sour cream, lime juice, and chipotle peppers. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and bubbly.
4. Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Chorizo Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of chorizo with the tanginess of Cotija cheese, all wrapped up in sweet bell peppers. A perfect fusion of Mexican flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook chorizo over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and crispy.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cooked chorizo mixture, followed by Cotija cheese and cilantro.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cotija Cheese Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
This recipe combines the creaminess of Cotija cheese with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 large tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine heavy cream and Cotija cheese. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce until coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with roasted tomatoes and garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Lime Marinated Grilled Shrimp
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional grilled shrimp, this recipe combines the tanginess of lime juice with the creaminess of Cotija cheese for a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
5. Sprinkle Cotija cheese over the shrimp during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or quinoa.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cotija Cheese and Honey
Sweet potatoes get a flavorful boost from the tangy crunch of Cotija cheese and the sweetness of honey. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness in sweet potatoes, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced.
3. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Drizzle the honey over the sweet potatoes, followed by the crumbled Cotija cheese.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Cilantro Rice Bowls
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful rice bowls featuring the tangy sweetness of Cotija cheese and the freshness of cilantro. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Combine cooked rice with the skillet mixture and stir to combine.
5. Top with crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Zucchini with Cotija Cheese and Herbs
A refreshing summer side dish that highlights the flavors of zucchini, cheese, and fresh herbs. This simple recipe is perfect for a backyard BBQ or as a healthy accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon 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. Brush zucchinis with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Grill zucchinis for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Top each zucchini with crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Black Bean Tostadas
These crispy tostadas are topped with creamy Cotija cheese, savory black beans, and a sprinkle of freshness from cilantro. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Fry tortillas for 30-45 seconds on each side, until crispy and slightly puffed. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate pan, warm the black beans over low heat.
4. Assemble tostadas by topping fried tortillas with warmed black beans, crumbled Cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve immediately, with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Quinoa Salad with Cotija Cheese
Mexican Quinoa Salad with Cotija Cheese: A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the creaminess of Cotija cheese, all wrapped up in a vibrant and colorful package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, bell peppers, cucumber, and Cotija cheese.
2. Drizzle lime juice and olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Sprinkle cilantro and salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add chopped jalapeño for an extra kick.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking quinoa not included)
Cotija Cheese and Mango Salsa Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this unique and flavorful recipe! Creamy avocado, tangy mango salsa, and crumbly Cotija cheese come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 cup diced fresh mango
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
3. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the mango salsa into each avocado half.
4. Sprinkle Cotija cheese over the salsa.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mango slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Cotija Cheese and Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico and Italy to create a unique and delicious pasta dish. With the tanginess of Cotija cheese, the nuttiness of pumpkin seeds, and the spiciness of red pepper flakes, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or spaghetti)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine pumpkin seeds, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
4. Add Cotija cheese to the pesto and blend until smooth.
5. Drain cooked pasta and toss with pesto sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cotija Cheese and Chipotle Roasted Cauliflower
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted cauliflower with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, all tied together with the tanginess of Cotija cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
4. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and stir in minced chipotle peppers and Cotija cheese.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with 20 creamy Cotija cheese recipes that are perfect for every occasion! From classic Mexican dishes like grilled corn and jalapeño poppers, to creative twists on comfort food like quesadillas and mashed potatoes, these recipes showcase the rich, crumbly flavor of Cotija cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, there’s something here for everyone. So go ahead and get cheesy with these 20 mouthwatering recipes!
