Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares for a Spicy Treat Recipe

Introduction

Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a delightful snack that combines creamy, melted cheese with a spicy kick. Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a savory treat, these squares deliver a perfect balance of heat and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 16 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 16 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ cup crumbled bacon
• ½ cup pickled jalapeños, diced
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 15 oz evaporated milk
• 2 eggs

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños. Stir until well mixed.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, flour, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients over the cheese mixture and stir thoroughly to create a thick, spreadable batter.
4. Step 4: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour in the cheese mixture and spread it evenly.
5. Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Step 6: Allow the baked dish to cool for about 10 minutes to firm up before slicing into squares.
7. Step 7: Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or snack and enjoy the spicy, cheesy goodness.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder heat, reduce the amount of pickled jalapeños or substitute with fresh green chilies.
• Try adding a small amount of cream cheese to enhance creaminess and texture.
• Use smoked bacon for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the cheese.
• Serve with zesty salsa, creamy ranch, or tangy guacamole for added flavor.

Storage

Store leftover jalapeño cheese squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or in a microwave until warmed through. These squares are best enjoyed fresh but can also be served cold as a snack.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make jalapeño cheese squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings.

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled?

Absolutely. Fresh jalapeños will provide a fresher, sharper heat, but consider adjusting the quantity to suit your spice preference.

Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares for a Spicy Treat Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 119 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 squares 1x

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Description

These Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a delicious and spicy treat featuring a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses combined with smoky bacon and tangy pickled jalapeños. Baked to a golden perfection, these squares offer a perfect balance of creamy cheese and fiery heat, making them an ideal appetizer or snack for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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Cheese & Flavor Base

• 16 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 16 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ cup crumbled bacon
• ½ cup pickled jalapeños, diced

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 15 oz evaporated milk
• 2 eggs

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Instructions

1. Combine the Cheeses, Bacon, and Jalapeños: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, flour, and eggs until smooth and free of lumps. This will form a creamy base for your cheesy squares.
3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients over the cheese mixture. Stir well to combine, making sure everything is incorporated into a thick but spreadable mixture.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the cheesy mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 35-40 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the center should bubble up. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Slice: Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes to firm up. Once cooled, slice it into squares, and get ready for the cheesy goodness!
7. Serve Immediately: Serve these warm, cheesy squares right away. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a savory snack to share. Watch them disappear in no time!

Notes

• You can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños according to your spice preference.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
• Serve with dips like salsa, guacamole, or ranch to complement the spicy flavors.
• These squares can be made ahead and reheated gently in the oven before serving.
• Make sure not to overbake to keep the squares moist and creamy inside.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, spicy appetizer, baked cheese squares, jalapeño snack, bacon cheese bites