If you’re a cheese lover, Provolone Goodness is the ultimate melty, savory, and comforting dish you need to try! With its rich, nutty flavor and smooth meltability, provolone takes center stage in this deliciously cheesy creation. Whether baked, layered in a sandwich, or served as a dip, this dish is perfect for an appetizer, snack, or side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy and Irresistible – Melty, gooey provolone in every bite.
- Quick and Easy – Minimal prep and only a few ingredients.
- Perfect for Sharing – Great for parties, gatherings, or family dinners.
- Customizable – Add toppings, seasonings, or extra flavors to suit your taste.
- Pairs Well with Everything – Serve with bread, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Provolone cheese (sliced or shredded)
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic (minced)
- Italian seasoning
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
- Bread, crackers, or veggies (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Cheese – Place provolone slices in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Add Seasonings – Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, sprinkle garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Bake – Bake for 10-12 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot with bread or crackers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Meaty Twist: Add crispy bacon or prosciutto before baking.
- Layered Flavor: Add caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Smoky Touch: Use smoked provolone for deeper flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with marinara or balsamic glaze.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as melted cheese may change texture.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until melted again.
FAQs
Can I use shredded provolone?
Yes! Shredded cheese melts evenly and works great for this dish.
What’s the best bread to serve with this?
Ciabatta, baguette slices, or garlic bread pair perfectly.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes! Melt provolone in a skillet over low heat until bubbly.
How do I keep the cheese from burning?
Bake at a moderate temperature and check often to avoid overbrowning.
Can I add other cheeses?
Absolutely! Mix in mozzarella or Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
Is this keto-friendly?
Yes! Serve with low-carb crackers or veggies.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead.
What drinks pair well with this?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer complements the flavors.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano add amazing aroma and taste.
How do I make it creamier?
Mix in a little heavy cream or cream cheese before baking for extra richness.
Conclusion
Provolone Goodness is a simple, cheesy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a dip, melted appetizer, or sandwich filler, this recipe brings out the best in provolone cheese. Try it today and indulge in pure cheesy bliss!
PrintProvolone Goodness
This Provolone Goodness is a cheesy, melty, and savory appetizer featuring baked or skillet-fried provolone cheese, infused with garlic, herbs, and served with crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you’re craving gooey, cheesy deliciousness!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking / Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
For the Cheesy Base:
- 8 oz provolone cheese (sliced or in a block)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers
- Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
Option 1: Baked Provolone Goodness
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a small oven-safe dish or cast-iron skillet.
- Place provolone slices or a provolone block in the dish.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Drizzle over the cheese.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers.
Option 2: Skillet-Fried Provolone Goodness
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Place provolone slices in the skillet and sprinkle with garlic, oregano, and black pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Flip carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately with bread or crackers.
Notes
- Extra Flavor: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey before serving.
- Add Protein: Serve with sliced prosciutto or salami for a charcuterie-style dish.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet.