Kraft Old English Cheese has long been a favorite for cheese lovers who appreciate its rich, creamy texture and bold flavor. This classic cheese brings a touch of tradition to any dish, making it perfect for recipes that need a savory, satisfying boost. Whether melted into a comforting grilled cheese or shredded over a fresh salad, Kraft Old English Cheese adds a delicious twist to everyday meals.
We’ve gathered some of the best Kraft Old English Cheese recipes that showcase its versatility and depth. From quick snacks to hearty dinners these recipes are sure to inspire your next cooking adventure. Let’s dive into dishes that celebrate this beloved cheese and turn simple ingredients into memorable meals.
Ingredients for Kraft Old English Cheese Recipes
To bring out the rich and bold taste of Kraft Old English Cheese, having the right ingredients is essential. Below we break down the core components you’ll need across our favorite recipes to create mouthwatering dishes.
Common Ingredients Across Recipes
These ingredients serve as the foundation in most Kraft Old English Cheese recipes, ensuring the rich cheese flavor shines through every dish.
- Kraft Old English Cheese (grated or sliced)
- Butter (unsalted, for cooking and flavor)
- Fresh garlic (minced, to enhance depth)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives, finely chopped)
- Salt (to taste, enhances cheese flavor)
- Black pepper (freshly ground, for seasoning)
Ingredients for Cheese Dip
Creating a creamy, luscious cheese dip featuring Kraft Old English Cheese requires balancing sharpness and richness. Here’s our go-to list:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Kraft Old English Cheese | 8 oz (225 g) | Shredded |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz (115 g) | Softened |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup (120 ml) | – |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup (60 ml) | – |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp | – |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp | – |
| Paprika | 1/4 tsp | For garnish |
Ingredients for Cheese Spread
For a spreadable delight perfect on crackers or fresh bread, gather the following:
- Kraft Old English Cheese — 6 oz (170 g), finely grated
- Cream cheese — 4 oz (115 g), softened
- Heavy cream — 2 tbsp (30 ml)
- Dijon mustard — 1 tsp
- Fresh chives — 1 tbsp, chopped
- Lemon juice — 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper — to taste
Ingredients for Cheese Snack Bites
Comfort snacks infused with the boldness of Kraft Old English Cheese include:
- Kraft Old English Cheese — 1 cup (packed, shredded)
- All-purpose flour — 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Cold unsalted butter — 4 tbsp (60 g), cubed
- Freshly ground black pepper — 1/4 tsp
- Paprika — 1/4 tsp
- Egg — 1 large (beaten, for brushing)
Ingredients for Cheese Pasta Bake
Combine Kraft Old English Cheese with pasta for a hearty, cheesy bake:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Kraft Old English Cheese | 2 cups (200 g) | Grated |
| Pasta (penne or macaroni) | 12 oz (340 g) | Cooked al dente |
| Milk (whole or 2%) | 2 cups (480 ml) | Warm |
| Butter | 3 tbsp (45 g) | Melted |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tbsp (24 g) | For roux |
| Onion | 1 small | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
| Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup (50 g) | For topping |
Each of these ingredients works harmoniously with Kraft Old English Cheese to create deliciously memorable dishes packed with bold, creamy flavor.
Equipment and Tools Needed
To create the perfect Kraft Old English Cheese recipes, having the right equipment is essential. Below we outline the basic and specialty tools that will help us showcase the cheese’s rich flavor and creamy texture in every dish.
Basic Kitchen Tools
For most Kraft Old English Cheese recipes, these fundamental kitchen tools will support smooth preparation and flawless results:
- Cutting board – Use a sturdy board for slicing or grating the cheese.
- Chef’s knife – A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and precise portioning.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy matters with spices, butter, and other ingredients.
- Mixing bowls – Preferably glass or stainless steel for mixing dips, spreads, and batters.
- Whisk or fork – For combining softer ingredients with cheese into a creamy blend.
- Saucepan or skillet – Essential for melting cheese or preparing cooked recipes like pasta bakes.
- Baking dish – Ovenproof and sized appropriately for casseroles or bakes featuring the cheese.
Specialty Tools for Cheese Preparation
To truly elevate our dishes with Kraft Old English Cheese, these tools make cheese handling and presentation easier and more refined:
| Tool Name | Purpose | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese grater | Grates cheese finely or coarsely for melting or toppings | Crucial for even melting and texture |
| Cheese slicer | Produces uniform slices for sandwiches or cheese boards | Enhances visual appeal and portion control |
| Microplane zester | Adds fine cheese shreds or zest for delicate flavor boosts | Ideal for garnishing and subtle texture |
| Melting pot | Small double boiler for gentle and even melting | Prevents cheese burning during melting |
| Cheese mold | Shapes cheese spreads into attractive forms | Adds elegance to cheese platters |
Using these equipment and tools ensures we unlock every nuance of Kraft Old English Cheese’s bold and creamy character in our recipes. Whether it is a simple slice on crackers or a luscious melted sauce, the right tools guarantee success.
Preparation Steps
To make the most of Kraft Old English Cheese, we follow precise preparation steps that ensure every bite delivers rich flavor and creamy texture. Let’s dive into how to prepare the cheese and other essential ingredients for our recipes.
Preparing Kraft Old English Cheese
We begin by handling Kraft Old English Cheese correctly to preserve its bold flavor:
- Grate or Slice: Use a cheese grater for fine or medium shreds or a cheese slicer for uniform slices depending on the recipe requirement.
- Room Temperature: Allow the cheese to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking or mixing to enhance melting and flavor release.
- Storage: Keep any unused cheese tightly wrapped in wax paper or parchment and refrigerated to maintain freshness.
| Preparation Step | Purpose | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Grating or Slicing | Even melting or layering | Use microplane for zest-like shreds |
| Room temperature rest | Enhances meltability and aroma | Avoid overheating before use |
| Proper storage | Maintains quality and texture | Wrap loosely to let cheese breathe |
Prepping Additional Ingredients
Next, we prep the other ingredients to complement Kraft Old English Cheese:
- Butter: Cut into small cubes or soften to room temperature for even incorporation.
- Fresh Garlic: Peel and finely mince or grate for a smooth spread and balanced aroma.
- Herbs: Wash, pat dry, and finely chop fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add freshness and color.
- Salt and Pepper: Measure precisely to enhance flavors without overpowering the cheese.
- Other Ingredients: Depending on the chosen recipe, measure accurately and prep vegetables, pasta, or crackers ensuring all elements are ready before combining.
| Ingredient | Prep Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | Cube or soften at room temp | Ensures smooth blending |
| Fresh Garlic | Peel and finely mince or grate | Releases strong aromatic oils |
| Fresh Herbs | Wash and finely chop | Use fresh for best flavor |
| Salt and Black Pepper | Measure and set aside | Adjust seasoning during cooking |
By carefully prepping Kraft Old English Cheese and its accompanying ingredients, we set the foundation for dishes that are rich, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy.
Cooking Instructions
Mastering Kraft Old English Cheese recipes requires precise techniques to unlock its full flavor potential. Below, we detail step-by-step instructions for each dish to ensure rich, creamy results every time.
Making Cheese Dip
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat until fully liquefied.
- Add freshly minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 minute to release aroma without browning.
- Gradually incorporate grated Kraft Old English Cheese while stirring continuously to avoid clumping.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream, maintaining low heat; stir until mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season the dip with salt and black pepper to taste; add finely chopped herbs like chives or parsley for freshness.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and keep warm for optimal dipping texture.
Preparing Cheese Spread
- Soften butter at room temperature for easy blending.
- Combine softened butter and finely diced Kraft Old English Cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Add minced fresh garlic and a pinch of salt, then mix thoroughly using a spatula until the blend reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Optionally, fold in chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance flavor complexity.
- Chill the spread for 30 minutes to firm up before serving on crackers or bread.
Cooking Cheese Snack Bites
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix cubed Kraft Old English Cheese with diced herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Encase each cheese cube in a thin slice of bacon or puff pastry strips for added texture and flavor.
- Place the bite-sized bundles on the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and outer wrapper is golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven and allow bites to cool slightly before serving.
Baking Cheese Pasta
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and blend in generous amounts of shredded Kraft Old English Cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the cheese sauce with cooked pasta and mix evenly.
- Transfer pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle additional grated cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to enhance flavors and texture.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheese Dip | Low heat | ~5-7 minutes | Stir constantly to avoid clumps |
| Cheese Spread Chilling | Refrigerator | 30 minutes | Firming up enhances spreadability |
| Snack Bites Baking | 350°F (175°C) | 12-15 minutes | Wrap cheese tightly for best results |
| Pasta Baking | 375°F (190°C) | 20-25 minutes | Use a greased dish to prevent sticking |
By following these cooking instructions, we fully maximize the bold taste and creamy texture of Kraft Old English Cheese in every recipe.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy Kraft Old English Cheese, thoughtful serving ideas can transform simple recipes into irresistible dishes. Here are our best tips to elevate the experience and highlight the cheese’s rich, creamy character.
Pairing Ideas
Pairing Kraft Old English Cheese with complementary flavors and textures enhances every bite. Consider these combinations for a balanced and flavorful profile:
- Fruits: Crisp apples, juicy pears, or fresh grapes create a refreshing contrast to the cheese’s boldness.
- Breads: Crusty baguettes, buttery crackers, or whole-grain toast provide a satisfying crunch.
- Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts add earthy notes and texture.
- Meats: Smoky cured ham or prosciutto enriches sandwiches and cheese platters.
- Wine & Beverages: Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a rich Ale pair perfectly with the cheese’s sharpness.
| Food Category | Recommended Items | Flavor Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Fruits | Apples, Pears, Grapes | Refreshing sweetness |
| Breads | Baguettes, Crackers, Whole-grain toast | Crunch and hearty base |
| Nuts | Almonds, Walnuts | Earthy crunch |
| Meats | Ham, Prosciutto | Smoky, savory depth |
| Beverages | Sauvignon Blanc, Ale | Enhance sharpness and creaminess |
Presentation Tips
Presenting Kraft Old English Cheese attractively invites a richer tasting experience. Use these strategies to showcase the cheese’s texture and flavor:
- Cut with Precision: Use a sharp cheese slicer or microplane zester for clean slices or fine shreds, encouraging easier melting or layering.
- Arrange Thoughtfully: Create a visually appealing cheese board by spacing slices alternating with complementary fruits and nuts.
- Serve at Room Temperature: Allow the cheese to rest for 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal aroma and creaminess.
- Accompany with Dips & Spreads: Place alongside creamy dips made from Kraft Old English Cheese to add variety.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish dishes with chopped parsley or thyme to elevate visual appeal and add herbaceous notes.
“Proper presentation turns a simple Kraft Old English Cheese recipe into a gourmet experience, stimulating both sight and palate.”
By combining thoughtful pairings with elegant presentation, we ensure every dish featuring Kraft Old English Cheese delights all senses.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and thoughtful make-ahead preparation allow us to enjoy the full richness and bold flavor of Kraft Old English Cheese in every recipe. Let us explore the best methods to keep the cheese fresh and ready for your cooking adventures.
Storing Leftovers
To maintain the creamy texture and bold flavor of Kraft Old English Cheese, proper storage of leftovers is essential. Follow these expert tips:
- Wrap the cheese tightly using wax paper or parchment paper to allow it to breathe while preventing excess moisture.
- Place the wrapped cheese inside an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
- Store the container in the refrigerator’s cheese drawer or the vegetable crisper section where humidity and temperature are stabilized.
- Avoid storing the cheese near strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
- Use the refrigerated cheese within 7 to 10 days for optimal freshness.
- If you have grated cheese, store it in an airtight container and use within 3 to 5 days.
| Storage Type | Recommended Wrapping | Shelf Life | Storage Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole block | Wax or parchment paper + airtight container | 7 to 10 days | Cheese drawer or crisper |
| Grated cheese | Airtight container | 3 to 5 days | Refrigerator main compartment |
Make-Ahead Preparation
Making certain components ahead can save time and enhance the flavor development in dishes featuring Kraft Old English Cheese. Here’s how we can prepare efficiently:
- Grate or slice the cheese and store portions in labeled airtight containers or bags. Keep them refrigerated until ready to use.
- Prepare herb butters, garlic spreads, or cheese dips the day before. This allows flavors to meld, creating richer taste profiles.
- When making a cheese pasta bake, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- For cheese spreads or dips, refrigerate covered and stir well before serving to maintain creamy consistency.
- Always bring the cheese or prepared dish to room temperature 20 to 30 minutes before serving or cooking for optimal melting and flavor release.
Conclusion
Kraft Old English Cheese offers endless possibilities for creating dishes that are both flavorful and comforting. With the right ingredients, tools, and preparation techniques, we can bring out its rich, creamy character in every recipe. Whether we’re making a quick snack or a hearty meal, this cheese adds a distinct boldness that elevates our cooking.
Exploring these recipes encourages us to get creative in the kitchen while enjoying the timeless taste of Kraft Old English Cheese. It’s a versatile ingredient that deserves a spot in our culinary repertoire, ready to impress family and friends alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Kraft Old English Cheese unique?
Kraft Old English Cheese is known for its rich, creamy texture and bold, tangy flavor. This combination makes it a favorite for enhancing a wide variety of dishes, from snacks to hearty meals.
How can Kraft Old English Cheese be used in cooking?
It’s extremely versatile and works well in grilled cheese sandwiches, salads, dips, spreads, snack bites, and pasta bakes, adding a creamy texture and strong flavor to each dish.
What basic ingredients are needed with Kraft Old English Cheese?
Common ingredients include butter, fresh garlic, herbs, salt, and black pepper. These enhance the cheese’s flavor in different recipes like dips, spreads, and baked dishes.
What kitchen tools should I have to cook with this cheese?
Essential tools include a cutting board, chef’s knife, measuring cups, mixing bowls, saucepan, cheese grater, cheese slicer, microplane zester, melting pot, and cheese mold for best results.
How should Kraft Old English Cheese be prepared before cooking?
Grate or slice the cheese evenly for smooth melting. Let it rest at room temperature to release flavor fully and prep other ingredients like butter and garlic in advance for easy mixing.
Can you provide tips for serving Kraft Old English Cheese?
Serve at room temperature with complementary fruits, breads, nuts, and meats. Present it carefully on a cheese board, garnished with fresh herbs for an elevated dining experience.
How do I store Kraft Old English Cheese properly?
Wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper and place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and rich flavor longer.
Is it possible to prepare dishes with Kraft Old English Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can grate or slice the cheese ahead and prepare dips or spreads a day in advance. This helps flavors develop and makes serving quicker and easier.