Irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe

Introduction

These Jalapeño Cheese Squares are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Packed with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a spicy kick from pickled jalapeños, they offer a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether as an appetizer or a snack, they’re sure to disappear fast.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1 cup evaporated milk (or regular milk)
• 3 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños. Stir until evenly distributed.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, all-purpose flour, and eggs until the mixture is smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the wet mixture over the cheese and bacon blend and stir gently until it forms a thick batter.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Step 6: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Let it cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add extra jalapeños or a handful of chopped green onions for added flavor.
• Use gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Swap evaporated milk for regular milk for a lighter option without changing the flavor much.
• For a vegan twist, use flax eggs and plant-based cheeses, although texture may vary slightly.

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. These squares also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just give it a gentle stir before pouring it into the baking dish.

How spicy are these Jalapeño Cheese Squares?

The pickled jalapeños add a mild to moderate heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or remove the seeds for less intensity.

Irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 109 reviews

• Author: Gabriel
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 squares 1x

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Description

These irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Combining sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and spicy pickled jalapeños with a crispy baked crust, they offer a delightful spicy and cheesy bite. Easily modified for vegetarian or vegan preferences, they’re crowd-pleasers that are simple to prepare and bake to golden perfection.

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Ingredients

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Cheese and Fillings

• 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Crumbled Bacon (optional; omit for vegetarian option)
• 1/2 cup Pickled Jalapeños, diced

Batter

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1 cup Evaporated Milk (or regular milk)
• 3 large Eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)

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Instructions

1. Combine Cheese and Fillings: In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded sharp cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled bacon (if using), and diced pickled jalapeños until well combined.
2. Prepare Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk the evaporated milk, all-purpose flour, and eggs (or flax eggs) until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
3. Mix Batter with Cheese: Pour the wet batter mixture over the cheese and jalapeño blend and gently stir until everything is blended into a thick, cohesive batter.
4. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking, then pour and spread the cheesy batter evenly across the dish.
5. Bake: Place the dish in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the squares are golden brown on top and the center is bubbly and set.
6. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes to let the squares set properly, then cut into squares and serve warm for the best taste experience.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon.
• To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs, use vegan cheese, and plant-based milk instead of evaporated milk.
• Pickled jalapeños add a tangy spice; adjust quantity based on your heat preference.
• Ensure the baking dish is well-greased to make cutting and serving easier.
• These squares can be reheated in a microwave or oven and served as a tasty snack or appetizer.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Appetizers
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, cheesy appetizer, spicy cheese bites, baked cheese squares, party snacks