Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe
These Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a deliciously spicy and cheesy treat that combines sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with crispy bacon and tangy pickled jalapeños. Baked to a golden perfection, these squares offer a perfect balance of creamy richness and bold heat, ideal as a snack, appetizer, or side dish for any occasion.
- Author: Lena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 squares 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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 crispiness, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the spice level.
- Use freshly cooked and crumbled bacon for best texture.
- Let the squares cool slightly before slicing to ensure they hold their shape.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature.
Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, spicy cheese snack, baked cheese appetizer, cheddar cheese recipe, Monterey Jack cheese squares, bacon cheese snacks, easy spicy appetizer