Name: Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounce block medium cheddar cheese; 8 ounce block cream cheese; 3 ounces oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes; 3 cloves garlic; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley; 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano; 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon honey; Pinch of salt; Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes; ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; ¼ cup vinegar

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you adore bold flavors and easy-to-prepare appetizers, this Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Combining the rich creaminess of two classic cheeses with a vibrant marinade bursting with herbs, garlic, and those irresistible sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a stunningly simple dish that brings elegance and exciting taste to your table without any fuss. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a fancy get-together, this appetizer dazzles with its colorful layers and lively flavors, promising smiles and second helpings all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass measuring cup with liquid layers of vinaigrette, showing a darker layer of herbs and spices settled at the bottom and a lighter golden layer on top, with a silver whisk inside mixing the dressing. In the background, a white fluted bowl contains several yellow and white striped lemon wedges arranged neatly. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is super straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in building the vibrant textures and flavors you’ll love in the Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe. From the creamy and tangy cheeses to the herbaceous freshness and slightly sweet punch of honey, every element matters.

8 ounce block medium cheddar cheese: The cheddar adds a bold, sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cream cheese’s smoothness.
8 ounce block cream cheese: Provides a rich, silky texture that balances the cheddar’s assertiveness.
3 ounces oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes: These bring a chewy, intense sweetness and a burst of umami that elevates the entire dish.
3 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungent aroma and depth of flavor that wakes up your taste buds.
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley: Parsley injects a bright, refreshing herbal note and lively green color.
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano: Oregano introduces an earthy, slightly peppery undertone that complements the tomatoes.
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme: Thyme’s subtle lemony flavor rounds out the herb mix.
1 teaspoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity and spice.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a delicate kick of heat to keep things interesting.
½ cup extra virgin olive oil: The luxurious base of the marinade, infusing richness while helping all the ingredients marry perfectly.
¼ cup vinegar: Provides a tangy brightness that contrasts the creamy cheeses and lifts the marinade.

How to Make Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Slice the Cheeses

Start by cutting the medium cheddar block in half lengthwise, then slice each half into approximately ¼-inch-thick squares. Do the same with the cream cheese—chilled cream cheese is easier to handle and slice neatly. These uniform squares will create a beautiful alternating pattern that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Step 2: Arrange the Cheese

Find a serving dish with a depth of at least 1 inch, such as a 9-inch baking dish or a deep pie plate. Carefully alternate layers of cheddar and cream cheese squares in rows or a spiral—whichever you prefer—to build a dazzling mosaic of colors and textures. This arrangement isn’t just pretty; it allows each bite to highlight the distinct properties of both cheeses.

Step 3: Prepare the Marinade

Finely chop the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes and mince the garlic. In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, combine them with fresh parsley, oregano, thyme, honey, salt, crushed red pepper flakes, extra virgin olive oil, and vinegar. Whisk everything together thoroughly to create a harmonious marinade bursting with fresh, bright, and bold flavors that will soak into the cheeses.

Step 4: Marinate the Cheese

Pour the marinade generously over the arranged cheese squares, making sure to distribute the tomatoes and herbs evenly across the top. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours—overnight is ideal—to allow the flavors to fully meld and penetrate the cheeses.

Step 5: Serve with Style

Once marinated, you can either serve the cheeses directly from the dish or transfer them to an elegant platter, ensuring you spoon plenty of the flavorful marinade over the top. Pair with your favorite crackers or crusty bread to soak up every last bit. Voila—an irresistible party starter that looks as fantastic as it tastes!

How to Serve Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe

This dish has a stack of four layers, starting from the bottom with a thick white cheese block. On top of it is a smooth yellow cheese layer, followed again by a white cheese layer, and finishing with another yellow cheese layer. The stack is topped and drizzled with small pieces of red sun-dried tomatoes and chopped green herbs, all soaked in a light oily sauce. The stack is placed on a white oval plate with several round beige crackers with small perforations arranged behind it. In the background, slightly blurred, there is a wooden board with more crackers on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like sprigs of parsley or thyme sprinkles can add an inviting visual touch and reinforce the fresh flavors in the marinade. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a scattering of cracked black pepper can also elevate each serving, making every bite feel special and thoughtfully prepared.

Side Dishes

This marinated cheese appetizer pairs beautifully with an array of sides. Consider serving alongside a crunchy vegetable platter, a selection of olives and nuts, or even a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil. The rich cheese and bright marinade contrast admirably with crisp, clean-flavored sides.

Creative Ways to Present

For something a little more unexpected, try stacking the cheese squares on skewers, drizzling the marinade on each skewer right before serving. Alternatively, you can layer the marinated cheese cubes in small individual jars or mini bowls for a charming single-serve presentation perfect for cocktail parties or buffets.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover marinated cheddar and cream cheese can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the marinade covering the cheese to maintain its moisture and flavor depth. Bringing it back to room temperature before serving will enhance the taste and texture.

Freezing

This particular appetizer is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can alter the texture of the cheeses and diminish the brightness of the herbs and marinade. Therefore, it’s not recommended to freeze the Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe.

Reheating

Since this dish is served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary and could compromise the texture of the cheeses and marinated ingredients. Simply enjoy it straight from the fridge or after a short period of resting on your counter.

FAQs

Can I make this appetizer vegan or dairy-free?

While the Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe relies on the unique taste and creaminess of dairy cheeses, you could experiment with plant-based cheeses that melt well and have a similar texture. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may differ.

What type of vinegar works best in this recipe?

A mild vinegar like white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar works wonderfully here, providing tang without overpowering the other ingredients. Avoid harsher vinegars like balsamic if you want to keep the marinade light and fresh.

How long can I marinate the cheese?

At least 6 hours is essential to let the flavors mingle properly, but marinating overnight often produces the best results. Going much beyond 24 hours isn’t recommended, as the texture of the cheeses could start to break down.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs give the brightest, most vibrant flavor for this appetizer. If you don’t have fresh, you can substitute dried herbs—use about one-third the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, fresh herbs will truly make this recipe shine.

What are the best crackers to serve alongside?

Choose crackers that are sturdy enough to hold a slice of cheese and a spoonful of marinade without breaking, like multigrain, water crackers, or even toasted baguette slices. Their mild flavor will complement rather than compete with the bold marinated cheese.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Marinated Cheddar and Cream Cheese Appetizer with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe—how effortlessly it combines familiar favorites into a dish that feels both luxurious and inviting. It’s a recipe that brings people together, sparks conversation, and fills your table with warmth and flavor. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this delightful appetizer your own—it’s sure to become one of your favorite crowd-pleasers for good reason!