Delicious Recipes to Use Up Your Tillamook Cheese (Post-Recall) – A Costco Guide

The recent Tillamook cheese recall, particularly affecting products purchased at Costco in June, has left many consumers wondering what to do with their potentially affected cheese. While it’s crucial to check your cheese against the recall information provided by Tillamook and Costco to ensure safety, assuming your cheese is *not* part of the recalled batch or you’ve already taken steps to verify its safety according to official guidelines (and are comfortable using it), let’s explore some delicious and creative recipes to make the most of your Tillamook cheese. This article focuses on recipes suitable for using a variety of Tillamook cheeses – cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and even cream cheese – commonly found at Costco.

**Important Disclaimer:** *This article assumes you have already confirmed that your Tillamook cheese is NOT part of the recalled batch or have taken appropriate safety measures based on official guidelines from Tillamook and Costco. If you are unsure about the safety of your cheese, please err on the side of caution and discard it according to the official recall instructions. Consult Tillamook’s official website and Costco’s recall notices for the most up-to-date and accurate information.*

**Understanding the Recall (Briefly)**

Before diving into the recipes, it’s important to briefly acknowledge the reason behind the recall. While the specific details can vary depending on the announcement, food recalls are often initiated due to potential contamination or manufacturing issues. It’s vital to stay informed through official sources to protect your health. The purpose of this article is to provide recipe ideas for cheese *deemed safe for consumption after verifying it is not part of the recalled batch, according to official guidelines*.

**Recipe Ideas: A Tillamook Cheese Extravaganza**

We’ll cover a range of recipes, from quick and easy snacks to more elaborate meals, using the types of Tillamook cheese often available at Costco.

**1. Grilled Cheese, Elevated:**

Classic comfort food gets a gourmet twist with Tillamook cheddar. Costco often carries Tillamook’s sharp cheddar, which provides excellent flavor.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, brioche, or multigrain work well)
* 2-3 slices of Tillamook cheddar cheese
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* Optional additions: caramelized onions, sliced tomatoes, bacon, fig jam

* **Instructions:**
1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Layer with Tillamook cheddar cheese. If using, add caramelized onions, tomatoes, bacon, or fig jam.
4. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking and melting.
6. Remove from skillet and cut in half. Serve immediately. Consider dipping it in tomato soup for the ultimate comforting experience.

**Variations:**
* **The Spicy Melt:** Add a few slices of jalapeno or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.
* **The Apple Cheddar:** Thinly sliced apple adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.
* **The Pesto Pro:** Spread a thin layer of pesto on the inside of the bread before adding the cheese.

**2. Quick and Easy Quesadillas:**

Quesadillas are a versatile and customizable meal. Use Tillamook Monterey Jack or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a delicious and satisfying quesadilla.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 large flour tortillas
* 1 cup shredded Tillamook Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
* Optional fillings: cooked chicken or beef, black beans, corn, salsa, chopped bell peppers, onions

* **Instructions:**
1. Sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over one tortilla.
2. Add your choice of fillings on top of the cheese.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the fillings.
4. Top with the second tortilla.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. You can lightly grease the skillet with cooking spray or butter.
6. Place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from skillet and cut into wedges. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

**Variations:**
* **Breakfast Quesadilla:** Scramble some eggs and add them along with cheese and cooked sausage or bacon.
* **Vegetarian Black Bean Quesadilla:** Combine black beans, corn, salsa, and cheese for a filling and flavorful vegetarian option.
* **Spicy Chicken Quesadilla:** Use shredded cooked chicken, spicy salsa, and a sprinkle of chili powder.

**3. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:**

This classic comfort dish is elevated with Tillamook cheddar. The sharpness of the cheddar complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
* 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 cups shredded Tillamook cheddar cheese

* **Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
6. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, half of the onion, and half of the cheese sauce. Repeat layers.
7. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes:**
* Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.
* Don’t overcook the roux, as it can burn easily.
* Make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and lump-free before adding the potatoes.
* If the top of the potatoes starts to brown too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

**4. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons:**

Pair homemade or store-bought tomato soup with grilled cheese croutons for a fun and flavorful meal. Use leftover Tillamook cheddar from your grilled cheese sandwiches to make the croutons.

* **Ingredients:**
* 4 cups tomato soup (homemade or canned)
* 2 slices of bread (from a previous grilled cheese)
* Leftover Tillamook cheddar cheese (from a previous grilled cheese)
* 1 tablespoon butter
* Optional toppings: fresh basil, sour cream, croutons

* **Instructions:**
1. Prepare the tomato soup according to package instructions or your favorite recipe.
2. Cut the leftover grilled cheese into small cubes (croutons).
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the grilled cheese croutons to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning frequently.
5. Serve the tomato soup hot, topped with grilled cheese croutons and your choice of toppings.

**5. Mac and Cheese, Elevated (Using Costco-Sized Cheese Blocks):**

Skip the boxed stuff and make a creamy, cheesy mac and cheese from scratch using Tillamook cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination. Costco sells large blocks of Tillamook cheese, making it perfect for a large batch.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1/2 cup butter
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 4 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
* 4 cups shredded Tillamook cheddar and/or Monterey Jack cheese
* Optional topping: breadcrumbs, paprika

* **Instructions:**
1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
5. Add the shredded cheese, one cup at a time, stirring until melted and smooth after each addition.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and paprika.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. (You can skip the baking step if you prefer a stovetop mac and cheese).

**6. Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip:**

Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this dip uses Tillamook cream cheese (often found at Costco) for a rich and tangy flavor.

* **Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces Tillamook cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or baguette slices

* **Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Stir in spinach and artichoke hearts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or baguette slices.

**7. Cheesy Baked Chicken Breasts:**

A simple and delicious way to use Tillamook cheddar or Monterey Jack is to bake it on top of chicken breasts.

* **Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 cup shredded Tillamook cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
* Optional toppings: salsa, chopped green onions

* **Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly browned.
5. Remove skillet from heat and top each chicken breast with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with salsa and green onions (if using). Serve with your favorite sides.

**8. Mini Cheese Balls (Great for Leftover Shredded Cheese):**

These are fantastic appetizers and a great way to use up smaller amounts of cheese.

* **Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces Tillamook cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup shredded Tillamook cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
* 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional coating: extra chopped nuts, paprika, everything bagel seasoning

* **Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, green onions, pecans/walnuts, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. If desired, roll the cheese balls in your choice of coating (extra chopped nuts, paprika, everything bagel seasoning).
6. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve with crackers or pretzels.

**9. Cheesy Breakfast Casserole:**

Perfect for a weekend brunch or a make-ahead breakfast, this casserole is loaded with cheese and your favorite breakfast ingredients. Use Tillamook cheddar or Monterey Jack for a classic flavor.

* **Ingredients:**
* 6 eggs
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
* 1 cup cooked ham, diced
* 1 cup shredded Tillamook cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
* 6 slices bread, cubed

* **Instructions:**
1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in sausage, ham, cheese, and bread cubes.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
8. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**10. Pizza Topping Powerhouse:**

Shredded Tillamook mozzarella (if you can find it at Costco, or a blend with provolone) makes an excellent pizza topping. Pair it with your favorite sauce, toppings, and homemade or store-bought dough.

* **Ingredients:**
* Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
* Pizza sauce
* Shredded Tillamook mozzarella (or a blend with provolone)
* Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, etc.)

* **Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven according to pizza dough instructions (usually around 450-500°F).
2. Roll out or stretch pizza dough to desired shape.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
4. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Add your favorite pizza toppings.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

**Important Considerations:**

* **Storage:** Always store your Tillamook cheese properly to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* **Use-By Dates:** Pay attention to the use-by dates on your cheese and use it before it expires. While cheese can sometimes be safe to eat past the date, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
* **Appearance and Smell:** Before using any cheese, check it for signs of spoilage, such as mold, discoloration, or an unusual odor. If you notice any of these signs, discard the cheese.
* **Personal Preferences:** Adapt these recipes to your own tastes and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, fillings, and seasonings.
* **Recall Information:** *Again, a crucial reminder: Always refer to official Tillamook and Costco recall notices for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding affected products. Your safety is paramount.* Verify the product code and sell-by date of your cheese against the recall list *before* consumption.

By following these guidelines and using your Tillamook cheese in these delicious recipes, you can enjoy its flavor and texture while ensuring your safety. Happy cooking!