Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares for a Spicy Treat Recipe
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
