Irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe

Introduction

These Jalapeño Cheese Squares combine sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese with a spicy kick from pickled jalapeños, creating a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Crispy on the outside and cheesy inside, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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 egg 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. Mix until evenly distributed.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, all-purpose flour, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Step 4: Pour the wet mixture over the cheese and jalapeño mixture. Stir gently until everything is blended into a thick batter.
5. Step 5: Pour and spread the cheesy batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon or substitute with crispy sautéed mushrooms.
• Use gluten-free flour to make the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
• Adjust the amount of jalapeños depending on your preferred level of spice.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these jalapeño cheese squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake them in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving for the best taste and texture.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), use vegan cheese alternatives, and omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute.

Irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 148 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Irresistible Jalapeño Cheese Squares combine sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with spicy pickled jalapeños and savory bacon to create a perfect savory snack or appetizer for your next gathering. Baked to golden perfection, these cheesy squares are bursting with bold flavors and a delightful texture that will please any crowd.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese and Toppings

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Combine Cheese and Toppings: In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced pickled jalapeños until evenly blended.
2. Prepare Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk the evaporated milk, all-purpose flour, and eggs together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Mix Batter and Cheese: Pour the wet batter mixture over the cheese and toppings bowl. Stir thoroughly until it forms a thick, cohesive batter with all ingredients evenly incorporated.
4. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
5. Transfer Mixture: Pour the cheesy batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly to ensure even cooking.
6. Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the baked dish to cool for about 10 minutes to set. Cut into squares and serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon.
• For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cheese alternatives.
• You can use gluten-free flour if you want this to be gluten-free.
• Make sure to let the squares cool slightly before cutting to maintain the shape.
• Serve warm with a side of sour cream or guacamole for extra richness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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