Jalapeno Cheddar Bites: A Spicy and Cheesy Party Appetizer
Take these delicious jalapeno cheddar bites to your next party. They are a perfect twist on classic jalapeno poppers.
More appetizer ideas: 7 Layer Dip Cups, Simple Stuffed Mushrooms, and Loaded Nacho Fries.
Jalapeno cheddar bites are a delicious and easy-to-make party appetizer that will surely impress your guests. These bite-sized treats are loaded with cream cheese, jalapeno peppers, and cheddar cheese, making them a flavorful and satisfying snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty appetizer to enjoy, these jalapeno cheddar bites are the perfect choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
There are several reasons why you’ll love this jalapeno cheddar bites recipe.
Firstly, the combination of cream cheese, jalapenos, and cheddar cheese creates a perfect balance of creamy and spicy flavors. The addition of roasted bacon adds a delicious twist.
Secondly, these bites are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Lastly, the crispy Phyllo Shells provide a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy filling, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- Phyllo Shells
- cream cheese, softened
- mayonnaise
- jalapenos, finely chopped
- bacon pieces
- cheddar cheese, shredded
How to Make the Recipe:
To make these jalapeno cheddar bites, start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Rinse and drain the jalapenos on a paper towel lined plate, remove the stems, and finely chop them. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped jalapenos, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Next, arrange the Phyllo Shells on a baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture into each shell, ensuring they are evenly filled. Top each filled shell with bacon pieces for an added savory touch. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once baked, remove the jalapeno cheddar bites from the oven and serve them warm. These bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the flavors are at their peak. Serve them as a standalone appetizer or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations on these Jalapeno Popper Bites Recipe:
If you’re looking to change up the recipe and add some variety to your jalapeno cheddar bites, here are a few suggestions:
- Swap the bacon pieces for diced cooked ham or crispy prosciutto for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Experiment with a different kind of cheese, such as pepper jack or Gouda, to create unique flavor combinations.
Storing and Making Ahead:
Jalapeno cheddar bites are best served fresh and warm. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, simply place the bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for a few minutes until heated through. Note that the Phyllo Shells may lose some of their crispiness upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Common Questions about Jalapeno Cheddar Bites:
Can I make these bites ahead of time and reheat them later?
While these bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the Phyllo Shells, top with bacon pieces, and bake them in the oven until golden brown and bubbly.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Pepper jack, Gouda, or even a combination of different cheeses can add a unique twist to these jalapeno cheddar bites.
Are these bites spicy?
The level of spiciness in these bites can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of jalapeno peppers or remove the jalapeno seeds and membranes before chopping them. On the other hand, if you love the heat, you can add extra jalapenos, sub cheddar for pepper jack cheese, or even sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Jalapeno Cheddar Bites
Ingredients
- 15 Phyllo Shells
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2-3 jalapenos finely chopped
- 2 tbsp bacon pieces
- ¼ cup cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Rinse the jalapenos, and cut the stems off, then chop finely.
- Add the cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped jalapenos, and cheddar cheese to a small bowl, and stir well to combine.
- Arrange Phyllo Shells on a baking sheet.
- Spoon some of the mixture into each of the Phyllo Shells.
- Tope each of the filled Phyllo Shells with bacon pieces.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the oven, and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, and serve warm.
In conclusion, these jalapeno cheddar bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors in one delicious bite. With their crispy Phyllo Shells and flavorful filling, these bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty snack. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and get ready to enjoy a burst of flavors with every bite!
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I'm Emily and I share my ideas to celebrate and create over at The Benson Street.
