Name: Jalapeño Cheese Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483414H39M25S
Total time: PT-483414H39M25S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/4 cup diced fresh jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat); 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg

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If you’re looking for a savory, cheesy treat that packs a little kick, you’ve come to the right place! These Jalapeño Cheese Squares are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party, having a cozy family dinner, or just craving a snack. The combination of melted cheese and the spicy warmth of jalapeños makes every bite irresistible. Plus, they’re super easy to make, so even beginner cooks can impress their guests with this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is one of those that’s sure to be a hit no matter where you serve it. The crispy edges, gooey cheese, and the spicy punch from the jalapeños combine to create a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, and the ingredients are likely things you already have in your kitchen. Whether you need a snack for movie night or a bite-sized appetizer for a party, these Jalapeño Cheese Squares are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

You’ll find the full list of ingredients below, but here are the key items you’ll need to make these cheesy squares:

Fresh jalapeños
Cheddar cheese
Eggs
Flour
Baking powder
Salt
Milk
Butter

(Keep reading below for the complete ingredient list and measurements!)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cheese from sticking. This ensures that when you cut the squares later, they come out cleanly.

Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños

Slice the jalapeños into small rounds, removing the seeds if you prefer a milder flavor. The seeds are where most of the heat lives, so if you want a spicier bite, leave some seeds in! Set the jalapeños aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter until everything is well combined. Then, add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Now comes the fun part – stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the jalapeños.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Let it Cool and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let the cheese squares cool for about 10 minutes. This will help them set and make it easier to cut into perfect squares. After cooling slightly, cut into squares and serve!

Expert Tips and Tricks

If you’re looking to make these squares extra cheesy, feel free to add a bit more cheese on top before baking. It’ll melt into a delicious, cheesy crust!
Adjust the amount of jalapeños depending on your spice tolerance. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder dish, or leave them in if you love the heat.
For a more savory twist, you can add cooked bacon bits or green onions to the mixture for added flavor.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, you could also try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Spicy Kick: If you love spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or swapping the jalapeños for hotter peppers like serrano or habanero.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Jalapeño Cheese Squares make a fantastic appetizer or side dish. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a side of guacamole for a nice contrast to the heat. They also pair wonderfully with a chilled beer or a margarita if you’re making them for a gathering. If you’re serving them for dinner, pair them with a fresh salad or some grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover Jalapeño Cheese Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to get that fresh, crispy texture back. You can also microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, though the texture might be a little softer.

4 FAQs

1. Can I make these Jalapeño Cheese Squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake them later. They also freeze well if you want to make a batch and save some for later.

2. Can I use a different type of pepper?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other peppers like poblano, serrano, or even bell peppers if you prefer a milder flavor.

3. Can I use a dairy-free option for the cheese?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and plant-based milk for a dairy-free version of this recipe. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well.

4. How do I know when the cheese squares are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown and the center should set. You can insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

Conclusion

These Jalapeño Cheese Squares are the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and spicy heat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a quick snack, they’re bound to be a hit. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in no time. Don’t forget to customize them to your taste and enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Jalapeño Cheese Squares

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 12–16 squares (About 4 servings) 1x
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These spicy and cheesy Jalapeño Cheese Squares are the perfect appetizer or snack. They’re easy to make and deliver a burst of flavor with a delightful mix of jalapeños, cheese, and savory ingredients. Great for game day, parties, or any time you want a tasty treat!

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese.
Add in the diced jalapeños and green onions, then mix well.
Add the egg and milk to the cheese mixture, then gradually add the flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cheese squares cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares.

Notes

For extra heat, leave the jalapeño seeds in.
You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with any other mild cheese of your choice.
These squares can be served warm or at room temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.