Jalapeno-Cheese Spread

2 cups servings Prep: 10 m Cook: PT0M Total: 10 m Beginner
This spread is easy to make and is a delicious, mildly spicy dip with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and jalapeños. I also sometimes use it to make a great grilled cheese sandwich.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese or Longhorn cheddar cheese
  • 1 (16 oz) package softened cream cheese
  • 1 (7.5 oz) can jalapeno relish or finely diced jalapeno
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 3/4 tsp garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Spray lightly the inside of your food processor with PAM.
  2. Combine all ingredients in the food processor for 2 minutes or until smooth, scraping the sides in between spins.
  3. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with crackers or use as a sandwich spread.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my spread too thick or difficult to mix?

A: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. If it's too cold, it won't blend smoothly with the other ingredients. You can also add a tablespoon or two of the jalapeño juice to help with consistency.

Q: Can I make this without a food processor?

A: Yes, but it takes more effort. Use a hand mixer or mix vigorously with a wooden spoon. Make sure the cream cheese is very soft and consider grating the cheddar cheese finely for easier mixing.

Q: How do I control the heat level?

A: Use less jalapeño relish for milder heat, or drain some of the liquid from the can. For more heat, add some of the jalapeño juice or use fresh diced jalapeños with seeds.

Tips and Techniques

Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before making this—it makes all the difference in achieving a smooth, creamy texture. The spread tastes even better after chilling for an hour or two, as the flavors have time to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • sharp cheddar cheese: Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
  • jarred jalapeño relish: 3-4 fresh jalapeños, finely diced
  • cream cheese: Neufchâtel cheese or light cream cheese
  • ground cumin: chili powder

Equipment Needed

  • food processor
  • rubber spatula
  • serving bowl

Historical Context

Jalapeño cheese spreads became popular across the South in the 1970s and 80s as Tex-Mex flavors started working their way into Louisiana and Southern cooking. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar became a party staple.