Spicy Cheese Spread
The Inspiration for This Spicy Cheese Spread
Many years ago in Costa Rica, there was a fun lunch spot that served freshly baked bagels and pastries along with delicious salads and soups. I was a frequent customer, especially during my college years.
One of my favorite orders was a bagel sandwich with a rich, salty, tangy cheese spread, alfalfa sprouts, and tomato slices. I can’t even tell you how delicious it was—it was the perfect lunch sandwich!
The restaurant closed many years ago, but the flavor of that cheese spread stayed with me. I tested different versions until I created the one I liked best, and this is it.
Why You’ll Love This Pepper Jack Cheese Spread
This is my version of Bagelmen’s cheese spread. It reminds me of a classic Southern pimento cheese, but this version gets its heat from pepper jack cheese and does not include pimentos.
This cheese spread is spicy, creamy, and easy to make. I grate the cheeses very finely, then combine them with cream cheese and a little butter so the mixture spreads easily.
How to Make Spicy Cheese Spread
Start by grating the cheeses using the finest part of the grater.
Tip! By grating the cheeses so finely, it allows them to mix easily and get fully incorporated with the rest of the ingredients.
After the cheeses are grated, place the cheese mixture into a large bowl.
Add the softened butter, softened cream cheese, and chives.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
Mix all the ingredients until well incorporated.
Storage and Serving Ideas
Store the cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Serve it on bagel sandwiches, spread it on toast, or enjoy it simply with crackers.
Enjoy!
More Easy Appetizer Recipes
For more appetizer ideas, try my Broccoli Bites with Tangy Dipping Sauce, Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Blue Cheese, or Roasted Vegetable Antipasto.
Spicy Cheese Spread
Equipment
- 1 large bowl
- box grater
Ingredients
- 8 oz block pepper jack cheese use habanero cheese if you prefer spicier
- 4 oz block colby jack cheese
- 4 oz room temperature cream cheese
- 4 tablespoons room temperature unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chives finely chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by grating the cheeses using the finest part of the grater.
- After the cheeses are grated, place the cheese mixture into a large bowl.
- Add the softened butter, softened cream cheese, and chives.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Mix all the ingredients until well incorporated.
- Serve the cheese spread with crackers or use it in a sandwich.
- Enjoy!