cheddarcrusted

Cheddarcrusted refers to a cooking preparation in which grated cheddar cheese serves as a crust on the surface of a food item. Recipes typically involve pressing seasoned cheddar (often mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices) onto the exterior before cooking, producing a crisp, savory layer as the cheese melts and bakes.

Common applications include chicken cutlets, fish fillets such as cod or salmon, pork chops, and even vegetables or potatoes. The crust adds flavor and texture; when baked or fried, the cheese forms a golden, crackly crust that contrasts with the interior.

To prepare, pat the protein dry, season, and apply a cheddar crust: mix grated cheddar with breadcrumbs and optional binder; press onto the surface, sometimes using beaten egg or mayonnaise to help adhesion. Cook by baking, broiling, or pan-frying, finishing in the oven for thorough cooking. Cooking times vary with thickness.

Variations and considerations: Cheddar selection (mild to sharp) affects flavor; some recipes combine cheddar with breadcrumbs to increase crispness. The method can be adapted for air frying or pan-frying. Be mindful of dairy allergies and gluten if breadcrumbs are used; substitution with gluten-free crumbs is possible. The term cheddarcrusted is most often found in home cooking and recipe databases rather than formal culinary standards.