Description

Simple Jalapeño Cheese Squares offer a spicy and cheesy treat perfect for an appetizer or savory snack. Combining sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, crispy bacon, and tangy pickled jalapeños baked into a creamy, golden dish, these squares deliver bold flavors with a rich, cheesy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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

You can adjust the amount of pickled jalapeños based on your desired spice level.
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with vegetarian bacon bits.
Letting the dish cool before slicing helps the squares hold their shape better.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

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

Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, spicy cheese appetizer, baked cheese squares, cheddar Monterey Jack cheese recipe, bacon cheese snack