Baked Provolone: A Rich and Flavorful Italian Appetizer

Meta Description: Discover how to make Baked Provolone, an Italian appetizer made with melted Provolone cheese. This simple dish is perfect for gatherings and offers a rich, savory flavor that's hard to resist.

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If you’re a fan of cheesy, gooey, and savory appetizers, then Baked Provolone should be on your must-try list. This dish is a wonderful way to showcase the rich, slightly tangy flavors of Provolone cheese, a popular Italian cheese known for its smooth texture and bold taste. When baked, Provolone becomes perfectly melted and bubbling, making it an irresistible treat that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cured meats, or roasted vegetables.

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What is Provolone Cheese?

Provolone is a semi-soft, cow's milk cheese that originated in southern Italy. It has a smooth, pale yellow rind and a firm yet elastic texture. The flavor of Provolone can vary, depending on its aging process. A mild Provolone (known as Provolone Dolce) is smooth and creamy, while a sharp version (known as Provolone Piccante) has a more tangy and intense flavor.

For Baked Provolone, the milder, creamier version is generally preferred, as it melts beautifully and creates a smooth, velvety cheese pull when baked.

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Ingredients for Baked Provolone

Making Baked Provolone is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Provolone cheese (about 8 ounces, preferably mild)

Olive oil (for drizzling)

Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced)

Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)

Chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)

Freshly ground black pepper

Crusty bread (for dipping)

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How to Make Baked Provolone

Making Baked Provolone is incredibly easy and takes only a few minutes to prepare. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

8 ounces Provolone cheese (cut into small blocks or slices)

1-2 tbsp olive oil

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

1-2 tbsp fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)

Chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)

Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the cheese:
   Cut the Provolone cheese into small cubes or thick slices. Arrange them in an oven-safe dish or a small baking pan, ensuring the cheese is evenly spread out.

3. Season the cheese:
   Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and sprinkle with minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a pinch of chili flakes (if using). Add a few cracks of black pepper to enhance the flavor.

4. Optional topping:
   For a bit of texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking. This will give the dish a slight crunch while still keeping the cheese creamy and gooey.

5. Bake:
   Place the dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you added breadcrumbs, they should be golden and slightly crispy on top.

6. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve the Baked Provolone with slices of crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Provolone

Use quality Provolone: The better the Provolone cheese, the better your dish will taste. Look for a mild version for a smoother texture, or opt for sharp Provolone if you prefer a bolder flavor.

Garlic and herbs: Fresh garlic and herbs are key to enhancing the flavor of the dish. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano, basil, or sage for variation.

Texture options: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking. Alternatively, top with a handful of chopped nuts (like pine nuts or almonds) for extra texture.

Spicy option: If you enjoy a little heat, add some chili flakes to the cheese before baking. This will give the dish a subtle spicy kick that complements the creamy cheese perfectly.

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Variations of Baked Provolone

Baked Provolone can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas for variations:

Baked Provolone with Prosciutto: Add some thinly sliced prosciutto over the cheese before baking for a savory, salty touch.

Baked Provolone with Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms and layer them over the cheese before baking. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs beautifully with the creamy Provolone.

Baked Provolone with Truffle Oil: Drizzle some truffle oil over the cheese before baking for a luxurious, aromatic twist.

Baked Provolone with Roasted Red Peppers: Add roasted red peppers on top of the cheese before baking for a sweet and smoky flavor.

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Why You’ll Love Baked Provolone

Simple and quick: This dish is incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients, making it perfect for a last-minute appetizer.

Cheese lover’s dream: If you love cheese, you’ll adore this dish! The melted Provolone is creamy and rich, with just the right amount of tang.

Versatile: Baked Provolone can be served as a standalone appetizer or paired with meats, olives, and bread for a more substantial spread.

Perfect for sharing: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal with family, Baked Provolone is a great dish to share.

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Final Thoughts

Baked Provolone is a delicious, creamy, and comforting appetizer that highlights the rich flavor of Provolone cheese. With minimal ingredients and a quick bake, this dish is ideal for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in. The soft, melted cheese paired with garlic, herbs, and a crispy topping makes this dish a crowd-pleaser every time.