Description
These Irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares combine sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with spicy pickled jalapeños and crispy bacon, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for gatherings, they offer a savory, cheesy bite with a delightful kick that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 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
Batter
- 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 the Cheese and Jalapeños: In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños until evenly distributed, ensuring every bite has a balance of flavors.
- Prepare the Batter: In another bowl, whisk the evaporated milk, all-purpose flour, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, creating a thick consistency that will bind the cheese mixture.
- Mix Batter with Cheese Mixture: Pour the wet batter over the cheese and jalapeño mixture, stirring thoroughly to blend everything into a thick, uniform batter.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish evenly to prevent sticking and to help the edges crisp up during baking.
- Spread the Mixture: Pour the combined cheesy batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the squares are bubbly and set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked cheese squares to cool for about 10 minutes to set fully, then cut into squares and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and consider adding extra cheese or sautéed vegetables for flavor.
- To make vegan, substitute flax eggs for eggs, use plant-based milk instead of evaporated milk, and choose vegan cheese alternatives.
- Use gluten-free flour if you need to make this recipe gluten-free.
- These squares can be reheated in the oven or microwave but are best served fresh and warm.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, cheesy appetizer, spicy cheese bites, baked jalapeño recipe, party appetizers, gluten-free cheese squares
