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Red Pepper Cheese Spread

This is a version of the more familiar pimento cheese spread. What I like about this recipe is that the jalapeño and garlic enhance the sauteed red peppers. You can use a drained jar of pimentos, but I like the crunch and flavor of the peppers. What I haven’t tried yet, is making grilled cheese sandwiches with this spread. It sounds like a good idea, especially if you have some left over.

 1 red pepper, diced finely (save a couple tablespoons for garnish)
 1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced
 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
 ½ cup mayonnaise
 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated
 ½ teaspoon onion powder
 ½ teaspoon sharp mustard
 2-3 slices bacon, fried and crumbled
 Salt and pepper to taste
1

On the stove, pour a couple tablespoons olive oil into a pan and set on medium temperature.

2

Add the jalapeño and red peppers. Sauté for a few minutes.

3

Then add the garlic with some salt and pepper. Sauté another minute or so.

4

Remove pan from heat and set aside. Add the cooled pepper mixture and all of the remaining ingredients.

5

In a large bowl, place the cream cheese and cheddar. Using a mixer or your hands (my preferred method), blend all the ingredients together.

6

Place in a dish and garnish with chopped red peppers. Serve with your favorite crackers or crostini. This serves 12 as an appetizer!

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