Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese

Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese is the ultimate appetizer for cheese lovers. Imagine rich, gooey, bubbling cheese flavored with garlic and herbs, served straight from the oven with chunks of crusty bread. It’s incredibly easy to prepare but makes a big impression—ideal for casual gatherings, holiday parties, or a cozy night in.

This Barefoot Contessa recipe takes just minutes to prepare but delivers maximum flavor and indulgence.

What Is Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese?

Baked Fontina is a one-dish wonder where cubes of creamy fontina cheese are baked with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs until melted and bubbling. It’s served immediately for dipping with bread, offering an irresistible combination of creamy, savory, and herbaceous flavors.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Jam Thumbprint Cookies
• Ina Garten Spatchcock Chicken
• Ina Garten Risotto Cakes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese

• Quick and easy – Ready in less than 10 minutes
• Gooey, melty texture – Perfect for dipping
• Rich, savory flavor – Boosted with garlic and herbs
• Elegant yet casual – Great for both casual and special occasions
• Minimal ingredients – Simple but luxurious
• Crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves warm, melty cheese
• Pairs with almost anything – Wine, veggies, bread, and more

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese

• 1½ pounds Italian fontina cheese, rind removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ¼ cup good olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the broiler

Preheat your oven broiler and place the oven rack 5 inches below the heat source.

Step 2: Arrange the cheese

Place the cubed fontina cheese in a small, ovenproof cast-iron pan or a heavy skillet. Spread the cheese out evenly to cover the bottom.

Step 3: Add olive oil and seasonings

Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese cubes. Scatter the garlic slices, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly on top.

Step 4: Broil until bubbly

Place the pan under the broiler for 5–6 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly browned on top.

Step 5: Serve immediately

Remove from the oven and serve hot, straight from the skillet, with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese

• Toasted baguette slices – Classic, simple pairing
• Vegetable crudités – Broccoli, carrots, peppers, and asparagus
• Roasted potatoes or fingerlings – Savory and satisfying
• Grilled sausages – For a heartier appetizer, spread
• Olives and pickled vegetables – Adds a briny contrast
• Fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices – Brightens the richness
• Crisp white wine or sparkling wine – Refreshing pairing

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese

• Use Italian fontina, not Danish – Italian fontina melts creamier
• Cut cheese into even cubes – Ensures uniform melting
• Don’t overbroil – Watch carefully to avoid burning
• Serve immediately – Best enjoyed hot and gooey
• Use a cast-iron or heavy ovenproof pan – Retains heat well
• Customize herbs if desired – Basil, oregano, or chives also work
• Have dippers ready before baking – Cheese waits for no one!

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes – For a subtle kick
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers – Adds depth
• Top with caramelized onions – Sweet-savory flavor twist
• Use different herbs like sage or tarragon – For new flavor profiles
• Stir in crispy pancetta or bacon bits – For extra savoriness
• Layer with sautéed mushrooms – Earthy, umami-packed option
• Add a drizzle of truffle oil after baking – For a luxurious finish

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese

• Best served fresh – This dish is meant to be eaten immediately
• Refrigerate any leftovers – In an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet – Over low heat until melted again
• Avoid microwaving – Texture can become rubbery

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese

• Skillet: Reheat slowly over low heat – Stir gently until melted
• Oven: Bake at 300°F for 5–7 minutes – Revives gooey texture
• Add a splash of olive oil when reheating – Keeps it smooth
• Serve with fresh bread after reheating – Best flavor and experience
• Avoid high heat – Cheese can split and become greasy

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg

An indulgent, rich appetizer that’s packed with creamy flavor.

FAQs

Can I prepare Ina Garten’s baked fontina ahead of time?

You can cube the cheese and prep the toppings ahead of time, but bake it just before serving to enjoy the best melted, bubbly texture.

What’s the best type of fontina cheese for baking?

Italian fontina (Fontina Val d’Aosta) is best because it melts smoothly and has a rich, buttery flavor. Avoid Danish fontina, which can be waxier.

Can I substitute another cheese for fontina in baked cheese recipes?

Yes, good substitutes include Gruyère, provolone, or mild mozzarella, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

How do I keep baked fontina cheese from becoming oily?

Use moderate heat and avoid overbroiling. Watch closely and serve as soon as it’s bubbling and lightly browned to maintain its creamy texture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina Cheese is a fast, easy, and utterly delicious appetizer that brings people together. With gooey melted cheese, garlic, and herbs, it’s a recipe that’s practically guaranteed to disappear as fast as you can serve it. Perfect for gatherings big or small, it’s simple comfort food at its most luxurious.

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