There’s something truly magical about melted cheese—the way it bubbles, crisps at the edges, and stretches with every bite. And when that cheese happens to be Fontina, infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil, you know you’re in for a treat. Baked Fontina is the kind of dish that turns any gathering into a cozy, indulgent experience. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love Baked Fontina
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion.
Is this Baked Fontina for you? Let’s see. Baked Fontina is…
- Incredibly easy to make – Just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Rich and flavorful – The combination of melted cheese, garlic, and herbs is irresistible.
- Perfect for sharing – Serve it straight from the skillet with crusty bread for dipping.
- Customizable – Add chili flakes for heat, or mix in different herbs for extra depth.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser – Cheese lovers will keep coming back for more!
Ingredients in Baked Fontina
Here’s why this dish is so simple yet spectacular:
Fontina Cheese: The star of the show. This semi-soft, creamy cheese melts beautifully, creating that perfect, gooey texture.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Enhances the richness of the cheese and adds a subtle fruity note.
Garlic: Sliced thin to infuse the oil and cheese with a bold, aromatic punch.
Fresh Thyme & Rosemary: These herbs bring a touch of earthiness and freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese.
Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the flavors and balance the dish.
Crusty French Baguette: The ideal vehicle for scooping up all that delicious, melted cheese.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). A hot oven ensures the cheese melts quickly and evenly.
Prepare the Cheese: Place the diced Fontina cheese in a small cast-iron skillet or an ovenproof dish. Spread it out evenly so it melts uniformly.
Add Flavor: Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the cheese. Then, sprinkle the thinly sliced garlic, minced thyme, and rosemary evenly across the top.
Season It Right: Add a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Bake to Perfection: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 6–8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with slices of crusty French baguette. Dig in while it’s hot and gooey!
How to Serve Baked Fontina
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious melted cheese. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Vegetable Dippers: Roasted or fresh veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers make great alternatives to bread.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is so satisfying that you’ll want to enjoy it on its own—just garnish with fresh herbs for a finishing touch.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Save time by slicing the garlic and chopping herbs beforehand. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat.
Dietary Adjustments: If you need a gluten-free option, serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetable dippers.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Double the Batch: This recipe is so good that you might want to make extra. If serving a crowd, use a larger skillet and double the ingredients.
Quick Tips for the Best Baked Fontina
- Use high-quality Fontina cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution.
- Serve immediately—this dish is best when enjoyed hot and gooey!
Baked Fontina is the ultimate easy, cheesy appetizer that feels gourmet but takes just minutes to make. It’s one of those recipes that instantly elevates any meal or gathering. So, grab that baguette and dive into pure melted cheese heaven trust me, this one’s a keeper!
Baked Fontina
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds Fontina cheese rind removed, diced into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme minced
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 crusty French baguette for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler and position the oven rack about 5 inches from the heat source.
- Evenly distribute the Fontina cubes in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Drizzle with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix the garlic, thyme, and rosemary, then sprinkle over the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the skillet under the broiler for about 6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown.
- Serve immediately, family-style, with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- A half recipe can be made in mini cast-iron skillets for an elegant individual serving.
- Try serving with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for extra variety.
- Works well as a party appetizer or a luxurious side dish.
