Jalapeño Cheese Squares

Name: Jalapeño Cheese Squares with Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled bacon; 4 oz diced jalapeños; 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs

Jalapeño cheese squares are a savory baked appetizer combining shredded cheddar and mozzarella, crispy bacon, and diced jalapeños in an easy-to-make one-pan dish. They bake until golden and bubbly, delivering melted cheese and mild heat in every bite.

🌍American 🏷️Jalapeño cheese squares 🏷️Appetizer 🏷️Bacon 🏷️Cheddar Mozzarella

🏷️

🏷️Spicy

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TikTok

Total

50 min

Servings

16

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$16–$26

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok

-0:00

TikTok

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup crumbled bacon
4 oz diced jalapeños
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs

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Instructions

1
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, crumbled bacon, and diced jalapeños. Mix well and set aside.
2
In a separate bowl, add the evaporated milk, flour, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
3
Pour the wet mixture over the cheese mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
4
Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
5
Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6
Let cool slightly before slicing into squares and serving.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Pat the diced jalapeños dry before mixing into the batter to prevent excess moisture from making the squares soggy.
Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and a creamier texture.
Cool for 5 minutes after baking before cutting into squares—this helps them hold their shape and makes serving easier.
Crumble the bacon finely or chop it small so it distributes evenly throughout every bite.

Substitutions

Cheddar and mozzarella → Monterey Jack and pepper jack (spicier result)
Bacon → diced ham or chorizo (different flavor profile)
All-purpose flour → cornstarch (gluten-free, slightly less structure)

Storage & make-ahead

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes until warm. Assemble unbaked up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Common Questions

Can I make jalapeño cheese squares ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the mixture in the baking pan, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 2–3 minutes to bake time if baking from cold.

How do I know when jalapeño cheese squares are done?

Bake until the top is golden brown and the edges are set and bubbling, typically 25–30 minutes at 350°F. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of canned?

Yes. Use about 4–5 fresh jalapeños, seeded and diced. Fresh jalapeños release more moisture, so drain them well or pat dry before mixing to avoid a wet filling.