Cheddar
Cheddar-Buttermilk Corn Bread
This recipe is an accompaniment for Southwestern Corn Pudding .
This is also great on its own.
Pear, Onion, and Dry Jack Cheese Strudels
These delicious strudels can be put together one day before baking.
Pierogies
Though pierogies are a classic Polish dish, food editor Paul Grimes had them every Easter at his Russian grandmother's house. Pierogies are satisfyingly rich, so you'll only need to serve 2 or 3 per person as a first course; leftovers make a great breakfast.
Beef, Black Bean, and Corn Nachos
Susan Richardson of Edina, Minnesota, writes: "My mother worked full-time when I was growing up, so as the oldest daughter in a family of six children, I did a lot of cooking. From the time I was seven years old, my mom taught me how to cook and bake — salad, bread, vegetables, and dessert were pretty much part of every dinner. Even today, I make it a point to prepare and eat dinner with my two teenage children. Though we're very busy, we'll never abandon our dinner ritual. It's the time when we can talk and reconnect."
By Susan Richardson
Bacon and Potato Pie
By R. A. Street
Potato-Leek Soup with Cheese
Julia Shure of Albany, California, writes: "This comforting soup has both cream cheese and cheddar, which give it a rich, smooth texture. While it makes an elegant first course, the soup can also be a satisfying meal partnered with a simple salad and some crusty bread."
By Julia Shure
Macaroni and Blue Cheese with Chives
Marie G. Beltran of Seattle, Washington, writes: "The signature dish at Blue Onion Bistro here in Seattle is a rich, velvety macaroni made with blue cheese. The restaurant, which is housed in a former corner gas station, is both nostalgic and comforting, just like the delicious dish. Is there any way you could persuade chef Scott Simpson to divulge the recipe?"
For blue-cheese lovers only. For best results, use Maytag or a Danish blue cheese.
By Scott Simpson
Baked Grits with Ham, Wild Mushrooms and Parmesan
"Recently I had dinner at Highlands Bar & Grill in Birmingham, Alabama. To say I was dazzled by the baked grits is not overstating the case," writes Mary Lane Stiglets of Jackson, Mississippi. "This divine and truly southern recipe should be printed in your magazine for all to enjoy."
Santa Fe Pizza
Use leftover roast chicken for this, or buy a cooked chicken at the market. For an extra-special treat, top each baked slice with a dollop of sour cream and sliced avocado.