Are you a fan of creamy cheeses, looking for inspiration to elevate your meals? Look no further! Today, we’re excited to share with you our collection of 18 mouthwatering Neufchatel cheese recipes that will impress your family and friends alike. From savory dishes like pasta and stuffed chicken, to sweet treats like cheesecake and crostini, we’ve got you covered.
Neufchatel cheese is a triple-cream delight, known for its rich, buttery flavor and smooth texture. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to add some excitement to your daily meals, these recipes showcase the versatility of Neufchatel cheese in all its creamy glory. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious world of cheesy goodness!
Neufchatel Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the richness of Neufchatel cheese with the freshness of herbs, perfectly balanced to elevate your chicken dish. A simple yet impressive main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Neufchatel cheese, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the Neufchatel mixture.
4. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. Brush tops of chicken with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Neufchatel Cheese Pasta with Garlic and Spinach
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish, featuring the tangy flavor of Neufchatel cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir in Neufchatel cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and reserved pasta water; stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Neufchatel Cheese and Strawberry Stuffed French Toast
Start your day off right with this indulgent twist on classic French toast. Neufchatel cheese and fresh strawberries add a tangy and sweet surprise to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread
– 1/2 cup Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, mix softened Neufchatel cheese with sliced strawberries.
6. Once French toast is cooked, spread each slice with the strawberry-Neufchatel mixture.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Savory Neufchatel Cheese and Chive Spread
A rich and creamy spread that combines the tanginess of Neufchatel cheese with the subtle flavor of chives, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Neufchatel cheese (softened)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened Neufchatel cheese and chopped chives.
2. Add the softened butter to the cheese mixture and mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this spread is a chilled recipe.
Neufchatel Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
This creamy dip combines the richness of Neufchatel cheese with the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (see note), drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened Neufchatel cheese, roasted red peppers, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just mix and chill.
Decadent Neufchatel Cheese Cheesecake
Elevate your cheesecake game with this rich and creamy dessert featuring the velvety smoothness of Neufchatel cheese. A perfect treat for any occasion, this decadent cheesecake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crumb mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a large bowl, beat Neufchatel cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
6. Stir in sour cream.
7. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
9. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes – 1 hour 10 minutes
Neufchatel Cheese and Smoked Salmon Bagel
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this elegant Neufchatel Cheese and Smoked Salmon Bagel recipe. This delightful combination of creamy cheese, smoky salmon, and crunchy bagel is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) bagel
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 4 slices smoked salmon, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Split the bagel in half lengthwise and toast until lightly browned.
3. Spread 1 tbsp of softened butter on each bagel half.
4. Top with 1 tbsp of Neufchatel cheese, followed by a slice or two of smoked salmon.
5. Sprinkle capers over the salmon for added flavor and texture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh dill or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (toast time + assembly)
Neufchatel Cheese and Caramelized Onion Tart
This elegant tart combines the creaminess of Neufchatel cheese with the deep sweetness of caramelized onions, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Spread Neufchatel cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Top with caramelized onions, sprinkling with salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Light Neufchatel Cheese and Cucumber Sandwiches
Light Neufchatel Cheese and Cucumber Sandwiches: A refreshing twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for a light lunch or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of light Neufchatel cheese (8 oz), softened
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 4 slices of white bread (or your preferred bread)
– Fresh dill or parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened Neufchatel cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Lay out the sliced cucumbers on one slice of bread.
3. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the cucumbers.
4. Top with another slice of bread to create a sandwich.
5. Repeat for each sandwich.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh dill or parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Neufchatel Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the creamy richness of Neufchatel cheese and the smoky goodness of bacon. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Neufchatel cheese, crumbled bacon, melted butter, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Neufchatel Cheese and Honey Walnut Spread
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and crunchy spread, perfect for crackers or fruit. This sweet and savory combination will satisfy any taste bud.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened Neufchatel cheese and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped walnuts and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, on crackers or with sliced fruit.
Cooking Time: None required. Just chill and serve!
Neufchatel Cheese and Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and refreshing bruschetta, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in. This creamy and tangy combination of Neufchatel cheese, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mozzarella balls (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Spread Neufchatel cheese on each slice, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with diced tomatoes and chopped basil.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (or until cheese is melted and bubbly)
Neufchatel Cheese and Avocado Stuffed Eggs
This recipe combines the richness of neufchatel cheese with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a perfectly cooked egg. It’s a unique twist on classic deviled eggs that’s sure to impress your brunch guests.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh herbs (optional), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. In a bowl, mix together the neufchatel cheese, mashed avocado, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Spoon the cheese-avocado mixture into the egg white halves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Neufchatel Cheese and Pumpkin Spice Muffins
These Neufchatel Cheese and Pumpkin Spice Muffins are the perfect fall treat to cozy up with. The creamy cheese and warm spices will transport you to a crisp autumn morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, Neufchatel cheese, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Neufchatel Cheese and Jalapeno Popper Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, spicy dip that combines the richness of Neufchatel cheese with the bold flavor of jalapeños. Perfect for parties or as a game-day treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine Neufchatel cheese, cream cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle on top of the dip.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Neufchatel Cheese and Pear Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of creamy Neufchatel cheese, ripe pears, and crispy baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of Neufchatel cheese, softened
– 2 ripe Anjou or Bartlett pears, peeled, cored, and sliced into wedges
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the crostini for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, spread a layer of softened Neufchatel cheese onto each toasted crostini slice.
5. Top with a pear wedge and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neufchatel Cheese and Dark Chocolate Truffles
Elevate your dessert game with these creamy, dreamy truffles that combine the tanginess of Neufchatel cheese with the deep richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Neufchatel cheese (softened)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the Neufchatel cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Roll the chilled cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
6. Place the truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Neufchatel Cheese and Lemon Zest Frosting
This tangy and sweet frosting is a perfect addition to any cake, cupcake, or cookie. The cream cheese flavor is balanced by the brightness of lemon zest, creating a refreshing and elegant dessert.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Neufchatel cheese (softened)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the Neufchatel cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Add the lemon juice and zest; mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembling only)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy world of Neufchatel cheese with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From savory dishes like Neufchatel Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken and Creamy Pasta with Garlic and Spinach, to sweet treats like Decadent Cheesecake and Neufchatel Cheese and Dark Chocolate Truffles, there’s something for every occasion. Plus, explore the many uses of Neufchatel cheese in spreads, dips, and snacks that are perfect for a quick bite or party gathering. With this collection of recipes, you’ll never tire of the creamy goodness!
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