Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth using an electric mixer or a rubber spatula.
2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeño peppers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Transfer the jalapeño cream cheese spread to a serving bowl.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Refrigerate at 40°F or below.
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 1 1/2 cups of jalapeño cream cheese spread, which is enough for 8-10 servings.
Nutritional information:
Per serving (2 tablespoons):
Calories: 110
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 140mg
Total carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
- Instead of cheddar cheese, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or any other cheese that melts well.
- If you don't have fresh jalapeño peppers, you can use pickled jalapeños or canned green chilies.
Variations:
- For a milder version, use only one jalapeño pepper or remove the seeds and membranes.
- You can add other ingredients to the spread, such as diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, or crumbled bacon.
- To make it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use a sharp knife to chop the jalapeño peppers finely.
- Serve the spread with crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced baguette.
- You can also use it as a sandwich spread or a dip for vegetables.
Storage instructions:
- Store the jalapeño cream cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This spread is best served cold, so there's no need to reheat it.
Presentation ideas:
- Garnish the spread with chopped jalapeño peppers, sliced green onions, or chopped fresh herbs.
- Serve it in a hollowed-out bell pepper or a bread bowl for a festive presentation.
Pairings:
- This spread pairs well with beer, wine, or cocktails.
- It also goes well with Mexican-inspired dishes, such as tacos, quesadillas, or nachos.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the spread with a side of fresh vegetables, such as carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips.
- You can also serve it with a side of fruit, such as sliced apples, pears, or grapes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the spread is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If it's too runny, you can add more cream cheese or sour cream to thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands, cutting board, and knife thoroughly after handling jalapeño peppers.
- Keep the spread refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Discard any leftover spread that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
- Cream cheese spread is a popular appetizer in the United States, often served at parties and gatherings.
- Jalapeño cream cheese spread is a variation of the classic cream cheese spread, adding a spicy kick to the dish.
Flavor profiles:
- This spread has a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor profile, thanks to the combination of cream cheese, sour cream, jalapeño peppers, and cheddar cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the jalapeño cream cheese spread as an appetizer or a snack.
- You can also use it as a condiment for sandwiches or burgers.
- It's a great addition to any party platter or charcuterie board.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A