Jalapeño cheese adds a lively spark to any snack spread with its bold, playful flavor. Creamy cream cheese blends with sharp cheddar and bright green jalapeño rings, creating a smooth, crave worthy mix. A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a pinch of smoked paprika bring extra zing without anything heavy. Perfect for spreading on crackers, rolling into warm tortillas, or dipping with crisp veggies, this cheesy bite is made for sharing and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This jalapeno cheese
- It’s a creamy delight that adds a spicy kick to any gathering.
- Perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies for a quick snack.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably have at home.
- Customizable heat level to suit your taste buds.
- Great for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in!
jalapeno cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by letting your cream cheese sit at room temperature. This will make it easier to mix later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and a splash of milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the diced jalapenos, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined for that perfect kick!
- Transfer your cheesy mixture to a small baking dish. Pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Once baked, let the jalapeno cheese cool for about 5 minutes. This will help it set a bit before you dive in!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbs | 2g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your delightful jalapeno cheese spread:
- 4 ounces cream cheese – softened for easy mixing
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – adds a rich and tangy flavor
- 2 fresh jalapeno peppers – seeded and diced for heat
- 2 tablespoons milk – to achieve the perfect creamy consistency
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances the overall flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle kick
How to Make jalapeno cheese
This creamy jalapeno cheese spread is a delightful treat! With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15-20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready in no time. Allow for an extra 5 minutes of cooling before serving to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese
Start by letting your cream cheese sit at room temperature. This will make it easier to mix later.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and a splash of milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Jalapenos
Gently fold in the diced jalapenos, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined for that perfect kick!
Step 4: Bake the Mixture
Transfer your cheesy mixture to a small baking dish. Pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the jalapeno cheese cool for about 5 minutes. This will help it set a bit before you dive in!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Appetizer / Snacks |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Warm with crackers or bread! |
Pro Tips for Making jalapeno cheese
- Choose fresh jalapeños for a vibrant flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by removing seeds and membranes.
- Let the cheese spread chill for at least an hour for best flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique taste combinations.
- Serve with a variety of dippers for a fun appetizer spread.
How to Serve this jalapeno cheese
- Spread on toasted baguette slices for a crunchy bite.
- Serve with crispy tortilla chips for a zesty dip.
- Pair with fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a healthy crunch.
- Use as a filling for spicy quesadillas or grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Top baked potatoes or nachos for an extra kick.
- Mix into scrambled eggs for a flavorful breakfast twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store jalapeno cheese easily:
Storing Leftovers
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Place jalapeno cheese in a freezer-safe container.
- Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
- For microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Avoid overheating to maintain creamy texture.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What kind of cheese is jalapeno cheese?
Jalapeno cheese is typically made with a blend of cheeses, often including cream cheese, cheddar, or Monterey Jack. The combination creates a creamy texture with a spicy kick from the jalapenos, making it a delicious spread or dip for various occasions.
2. Is jalapeno cheese pepper jack?
While jalapeno cheese and pepper jack cheese are similar, they are not the same. Pepper jack is a type of Monterey Jack cheese that is infused with peppers, including jalapenos. Jalapeno cheese, on the other hand, can be a spread or dip that incorporates jalapenos with other cheeses, often resulting in a creamier texture.
3. Is jalapeno cheese hot?
Jalapeno cheese can vary in heat level depending on the amount of jalapenos used and how they are prepared. Generally, it has a mild to moderate spice level, making it enjoyable for those who like a little kick without overwhelming heat. You can adjust the spice by adding more or fewer jalapenos to suit your taste.
4. Is jalapeno cheese good for you?
Jalapeno cheese can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It provides some protein and calcium from the cheese, but it can also be high in calories and fat. To make it healthier, consider using low-fat cheese options or serving it with fresh vegetables or whole-grain crackers for a nutritious snack.
Final Thoughts
Get ready to spice up your gatherings with this delightful jalapeño cheese spread! It’s creamy, zesty, and oh-so-easy to whip up. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, and let the deliciousness begin—your taste buds will thank you!