Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares for a Spicy Treat Recipe
These Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares combine sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with crispy bacon and spicy pickled jalapeños for a rich, flavorful snack or appetizer. Baked to a golden brown, this dish offers a creamy, cheesy texture accented by a pleasant kick of heat, perfect for gatherings or a savory treat.
- 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, combine the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 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.
- 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.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the cheesy mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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
- For extra heat, add more diced jalapeños or include some fresh jalapeño slices.
- You can substitute bacon with cooked sausage or omit for a vegetarian option.
- Ensure to shred the cheeses finely for even melting throughout the mixture.
- Letting the squares cool slightly makes slicing easier and helps them hold shape.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, cheesy appetizer, spicy snack, baked cheese squares, bacon cheese recipe
