Irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe
These irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a perfect savory appetizer for your next gathering. Combining sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with smoky bacon and spicy pickled jalapeños, this baked dish offers a delightful cheesy bite with a spicy kick. Easy to prepare and bake, they make an ideal crowd-pleaser for parties or casual get-togethers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 squares 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
For the Batter
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Crumbled Bacon (omit for vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup Pickled Jalapeños, diced
Binding Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour
- 1 cup Evaporated Milk or regular milk
- 3 large Eggs or flax egg for vegan option
Instructions
- Combine Cheese and Bacon: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños until they are evenly distributed to ensure every square has balanced flavors.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, all-purpose flour, and eggs until the batter is smooth and free of lumps, forming a binding mixture for the cheese.
- Mix Batter: Pour the wet mixture over the cheese and bacon mixture, then stir gently until blended into a thick, uniform batter.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
- Bake: Pour the cheesy batter evenly into the prepared dish, then place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the mixture is bubbly and set.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked cheese squares cool for about 10 minutes to firm up, then cut into squares and serve warm for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, or ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make sure all ingredients are well mixed to achieve the best flavor distribution throughout the squares.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or a smoked cheese for additional flavor.
- The use of gluten-free flour accommodates those with gluten sensitivities.
Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, cheesy appetizer, party snacks, baked cheese dish, spicy cheese bites, gluten-free appetizers
