Recipes Made with Tilsit Cheese

Tilsit cheese presents a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the palate. Its creamy, buttery notes in younger varieties transition to a more pronounced saltiness and tang as it matures. While undeniably delicious on its own, Tilsit's true potential is unlocked in the kitchen. 

A surprisingly versatile ingredient, it lends itself to a wide array of food choices, from simple snacks to sophisticated appetizers and hearty main dishes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, this blog will guide you to the perfect Tilsit cheese recipe that will take your kitchen creations to the next level.

Appetizers and Snacks

Kick off your culinary journey with Tilsit cheese by exploring these delectable appetizers and snacks. Each recipe highlights the unique flavors of this versatile cheese, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply seeking a satisfying bite.

Creamy Tilsit Dip with Roasted Red Pepper & Garlic

This warm and flavorful Tilsit cheese recipe makes an irresistible dip perfect for parties or a simple snack. The roasted red peppers add a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the tangy Tilsit.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces Tilsit cheese, grated

• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a medium bowl, combine the grated Tilsit cheese, roasted red peppers, garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream, and chives.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish.

• Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.

• Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or your favorite vegetables.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Tilsit cheese recipe with a variety of dippers, such as:

• Crusty bread slices or baguette

• Crackers (plain or flavored)

• Sliced vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers

Grilled Tilsit Cheese with Spicy Apricot Glaze

This simple yet elegant Tilsit cheese recipe provides a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The sweet and spicy apricot glaze perfectly complements the smoky, melted Tilsit.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 inch thick slices of Tilsit cheese

• 1/4 cup apricot preserves

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your preferred spice level)

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions: 

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.

• In a small saucepan, combine the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).

• Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.

• Grill the Tilsit cheese slices for 2-3 minutes per side or until they are softened and slightly browned.

• Brush the apricot glaze generously over the grilled Tilsit slices.

• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy as a simple appetizer with a glass of wine or beer.

• Serve alongside grilled meats or vegetables.

• Incorporate into a cheese board for a sweet and spicy twist.

Main Courses

Beyond appetizers and snacks, Tilsit cheese also shines in main dishes. Explore these main course options, where the distinct character of Tilsit becomes the star ingredient, enhancing both flavor and presentation. 

Tilsit-Stuffed Chicken Breast Wrapped in Prosciutto

This elegant Tilsit cheese recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight meal that feels a little fancy. The salty prosciutto complements the creamy Tilsit, while the chicken provides a hearty base.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 thin slices Tilsit cheese

• 4 thin slices prosciutto

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions: 

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast.

• Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

• Stuff each pocket with two slices of Tilsit cheese.

• Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if necessary.

• Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

• Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.

• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.

• Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, and then remove toothpicks.

• Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve.

Serving Suggestions: 

Pair Tilsit cheese with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. 

Cheesy Tilsit Potato Gratin

This comforting Tilsit cheese recipe is a classic side dish or vegetarian main that's perfect for any occasion. The thinly sliced potatoes become tender and creamy in the oven, while the Tilsit cheese adds a rich, savory flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Tilsit cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, heavy cream, Tilsit cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

• Toss to coat evenly.

• Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

• Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

• Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

• Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Tilsit cheese pairs well with roasted meats, grilled fish, or as a vegetarian main course. It also makes a delicious addition to potlucks and holiday gatherings.  

Salads and Sides

Tilsit cheese proves its flexibility yet again in these vibrant salads and hearty sides. Each recipe offers a new way to experience the cheese's distinct flavor and texture, either as a refreshing counterpoint or a rich complement to the main dish.

Watermelon, Tilsit, and Mint Salad

This refreshing salad is perfect for a hot summer day. The juicy watermelon, salty Tilsit, and bright mint create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon

• 4 ounces Tilsit cheese, crumbled

• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, Tilsit cheese, red onion, and mint.

• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Toss gently to combine.

• Serve immediately or chill for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy this salad as a light lunch or side dish.

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

• Garnish with additional mint leaves or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.

Warm Tilsit and Bacon Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette

This hearty Tilsit cheese recipe is a satisfying and flavorful side dish or light meal. The warm, salty Tilsit cheese and crispy bacon pair perfectly with the peppery arugula and tangy mustard vinaigrette.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups arugula

• 4 ounces Tilsit cheese, crumbled

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1/4 cup chopped red onion

For the vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

• In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, Tilsit cheese, bacon, and red onion.

• Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss to coat.

• Serve immediately while the cheese is still warm.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy this salad as a light lunch or side dish.

• Add a poached egg for a protein-packed meal.

• Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.

Desserts

The versatility of Tilsit cheese extends to desserts. Its unique flavor profile complements sweet ingredients in surprising and delightful ways. These recipes showcase its potential for creating sophisticated and memorable desserts that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Grilled Peaches with Tilsit and Honey

This simple yet elegant dessert makes for a delicious and healthy treat. The sweetness of the grilled peaches complements the salty Tilsit, while the honey adds an extra touch of warmth.

Ingredients: 

2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted

2 ounces Tilsit cheese, crumbled

2 tablespoons honey

Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions: 

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.

• Brush the cut sides of the peaches with a little bit of oil.

• Grill the peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are softened and have grill marks.

• Remove the peaches from the grill and transfer to a serving plate.

• Top each peach half with crumbled Tilsit cheese and a drizzle of honey.

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions: 

Enjoy this dessert warm on its own for a light treat. Alternatively, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a more decadent experience.

Tilsit, Fig, and Walnut Tartlets

These sophisticated Tilsit cheese recipe bites are perfect for a special occasion or a simple after-dinner treat. The creamy Tilsit cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fig jam and the crunch of the walnuts.

Ingredients: 

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

• 4 ounces Tilsit cheese, crumbled

• 1/4 cup fig jam

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into small circles using a cookie cutter or glass.

• Place the pastry circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Divide the crumbled Tilsit cheese evenly among the pastry circles.

• Top each with a dollop of fig jam and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.

• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

• Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these tartlets as an appetizer or dessert.

• Pair them with a glass of sweet wine or port.

• Garnish with additional fig jam or a sprig of rosemary for a touch of elegance.

Wrapping Up

Tilsit cheese proves itself to be a culinary chameleon. As showcased in these recipes, it effortlessly transitions from appetizer to dessert, adding depth and complexity to every dish.

Looking for more cheesy inspiration? Visit our website to discover a curated selection of unique and flavorful cheeses from around the world. Your next culinary adventure awaits!