Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares for a Spicy Treat Recipe

Introduction

Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a delightful blend of spicy jalapeños and creamy, sharp cheeses baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make snack is perfect for gatherings or a flavorful treat anytime you crave something savory with a kick.

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, Monterey Jack cheeses, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños. Stir until evenly mixed.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, flour, and eggs until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Step 3: Pour the wet mixture over the cheese mixture and stir well to form a thick, spreadable batter.
4. Step 4: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
5. Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Step 6: Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes to set 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 milder heat, reduce the amount of jalapeños or remove the seeds before dicing.
• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra smoky spice.
• Substitute bacon with cooked sausage or omit for a vegetarian version.
• Try mixing in cream cheese for added creaminess and richness.
• Serve with dips like ranch dressing, guacamole, or salsa to complement the spicy flavors.

Storage

Store leftover jalapeño cheese squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled?

Yes, fresh jalapeños can be used, but be sure to adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level. Removing seeds reduces heat if desired.

How do I make these squares gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free without affecting the flavor or texture significantly.

Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares for a Spicy Treat Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 76 reviews

Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares combine the bold flavors of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with spicy pickled jalapeños and smoky bacon, baked into a creamy, cheesy treat perfect as a snack or appetizer. This easy-to-make dish offers a delicious balance of heat and creaminess, delivering irresistible squares with a golden crust and a bubbly, flavorful center.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 squares 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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

Instructions

1. Combine the Cheeses, Bacon, and Jalapeños: In a large mixing bowl, mix the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with the crumbled bacon and diced pickled jalapeños until evenly distributed.
2. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, all-purpose flour, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, creating a creamy base.
3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the cheese and bacon mixture and stir well to combine, forming a thick, spreadable batter.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly, then pour the combined mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center bubbles. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
6. Cool and Slice: Allow the baked squares to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes to firm up, then slice into squares for serving.
7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy these warm, cheesy jalapeño squares as a tasty appetizer, side dish, or savory snack. They pair well with dips like salsa, guacamole, or ranch dressing.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top before baking.
• Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat level according to taste preferences.
• Can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
• Substituting bacon with a vegetarian option can make this dish meat-free but still flavorful.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like adding mozzarella or cream cheese for varied textures and richness.

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