Cheddar cheese is a staple in many cuisines, loved for its versatility and affluent, savory flavor. But not all cheddar cheeses are created equal. The aging process plays a significant role in shaping the flavor, texture and pungency of cheddar cheese, making it a key ingredient to consider when preparing recipes like Slow Cooker Shredded Cheddar and Chive from our friends at Wisconsin Cheese.
Cheddar starts out as a subtle cheese with a creamy, velvety texture. Mild cheddar matures for 2-3 months, offering a exquisite, slightly sweet flavor that works well in dishes where the cheese should not dominate over other ingredients. Medium cheddar, matured for 4-6 months, develops a fuller flavor while maintaining a creamy texture. It adds a nice balance of richness and flavor to recipes.
Sharp cheddar, like Year of Hook The Sharp Cheddar in this recipe adds intensity. It matures for 9-12 months and has a robust, piquant flavor that can enhance the taste of piquant dishes. The Hook version is sharper than average cheddar, but does not match the sharpness found in older cheeses. This spiciness enhances the mashed potatoes, adding a bold, cheesy richness that complements the chives and creamy texture.
Very pointed or aged cheddar, aged 2 to 10 years, has an even more concentrated flavor. It often has a crumbly texture and nutty, convoluted notes. Although mature cheddars are perfect for a snack or cheese board, their intensity can overpower exquisite dishes.
Choosing the right cheddar cheese depends on the balance of flavors you’re aiming for. In this recipe, a pointed cheddar cheese like Hook’s adds just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the potatoes, creating a luxurious, cheesy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re a fan of subtle or piquant varieties, adding high-quality aged cheddar cheese is an simple way to make your recipes stand out.
Recipe and article by Wisconsin cheese. Photo provided by Wisconsin dairy farmers.
Slow-cooker mashed potatoes with Cheddar cheese and chives
When someone else is hosting a dinner party, the question often comes up: “What can I bring?” Offer to share potluck-aged cheddar potatoes; not only do they taste delicious, but they also travel well!
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes peeled and cut into 1 cm cubes
- 1 cup water
- 4 ounces Crystal Farms Original Cream Cheese Cut 1/2 of the package into tiny cubes
- 4 spoons butter cut into tiny cubes
- 8 ounces Hook’s Annual Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded and divided (2 cups)
- 1/4 cup half and half cream heated
- 2 spoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
-
Place the potatoes in a 3-quart snail-paced cooker. Pour water. Sprinkle with cream cheese and butter. Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 8-9 hours, until potatoes are tender.
-
Transfer all ingredients from snail-paced cooker to a gigantic bowl; Mash the potato mixture until velvety. Mix 1 cup cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives, salt and pepper. Return the potatoes to the lightly greased snail-paced cooker.
-
Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese. Cover and cook over high heat until the cheese is melted, about 10-15 minutes. Serve immediately or utilize the toasty setting to keep the potatoes toasty for up to 4 hours.
Tip for the cheesemonger: Hook’s Year Old Sharp Cheddar Cheese is only slightly sharper than Medium Cheddar Cheese. Mature cheddar cheese gives the potatoes a affluent, cheesy flavor.
Cheese: When purchasing cheese, look for the Proudly Wisconsin badge. You can utilize any brand of Wisconsin-aged Cheddar cheese or cream cheese in this recipe.
