Are you a fan of spicy foods? Do you love the creamy richness of cheese? Then you’re in luck! We’ve got 19 mouth-watering recipe ideas that combine the bold flavor of pepper jack cheese with the heat of jalapeños and other spicy peppers. From savory breakfast dishes to indulgent snacks, these recipes showcase the versatility of this popular cheese.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a show-stopping dinner, we’ve got you covered. Try stuffing burgers with pepper jack and bacon, making creamy mac and cheese with roasted red peppers, or adding some heat to your scrambled eggs with chorizo and pepper jack. And that’s just the beginning – keep reading to discover even more ways to incorporate this spicy sensation into your cooking routine.
Creamy Pepper Jack Cheese Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of spicy pepper jack cheese and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated pepper jack cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, bringing mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove sauce from heat and stir in pepper jack cheese and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and creamy cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Burgers
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful patties packed with melted Spicy Pepper Jack cheese and a hint of heat. Perfect for any occasion, these burgers are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 slices Spicy Pepper Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you desire
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and parsley. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place one slice of Spicy Pepper Jack cheese in the center of each patty. Fold patty over cheese to form a ball, then flatten slightly into a patty shape again.
5. Grill or cook burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Let burgers rest for a few minutes before serving on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese and Bacon Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on classic quesadillas, this recipe combines the spicy kick of Pepper Jack cheese with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese-bacon mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Top with chopped onion and bell pepper, then fold the tortilla in half to enclose.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese Cornbread Muffins
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these flavorful and moist muffins, packed with the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup crumbled pepper jack cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in crumbled pepper jack cheese.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Loaded Pepper Jack Cheese Potato Skins
Satisfy your cravings with these decadent potato skins loaded with pepper jack cheese, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of chives. Perfect for game day gatherings or cozy movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (chives)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Slice potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer.
4. In each potato skin, sprinkle shredded pepper jack cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place potato skins on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 55-62 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese and Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe combines the creamy richness of pepper jack cheese with the savory flavor of chicken, wrapped up in a crispy tortilla and smothered in a spicy tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
3. Spoon shredded chicken onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded pepper jack cheese over the chicken.
5. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese Dip with Chorizo
Elevate your snack game with this bold and spicy dip featuring the flavors of chorizo and pepper jack cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup of cooked chorizo, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon of chili flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and shredded pepper jack cheese until smooth.
3. Add the crumbled chorizo, chili flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the dip to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
7. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese Jalapeño Poppers
Add a spicy twist to your snack game with these flavorful Pepper Jack cheese jalapeño poppers. Perfect for game day or any occasion, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 large jalapeños
– 1 block of pepper jack cheese (softened)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. Stuff each pepper with about 1 tablespoon of softened pepper jack cheese.
4. Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
5. Place the peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese Scrambled Eggs with Chives
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful recipe that combines the spiciness of Pepper Jack cheese, the richness of scrambled eggs, and the freshness of chives.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and scramble until they are almost set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the shredded Pepper Jack cheese evenly over the eggs.
5. Continue cooking for another minute, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully cooked.
6. Remove from heat and stir in chopped chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Grilled Cheese with Pepper Jack Cheese and Avocado
Elevate the classic grilled cheese sandwich with the bold flavor of pepper jack cheese and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1-2 slices of pepper jack cheese, depending on desired spiciness
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice with 1/2 tablespoon of butter.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with pepper jack cheese slices, followed by sliced avocado.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Flip sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese with the savory taste of black beans. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together black beans, cooked rice, and shredded cheese.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese Grits
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, spicy twist on classic grits. This recipe combines the comfort of traditional grits with the bold flavors of pepper jack cheese and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated pepper jack cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low.
2. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are creamy and tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the butter, pepper jack cheese, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated cheese and a sprinkle of cayenne if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese and Pulled Pork Nachos
A twist on the classic nacho recipe, this dish combines the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese with the tender, smoky flavor of pulled pork. It’s a perfect combination for game day gatherings or casual dinner parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup pulled pork (slow-cooked in your favorite BBQ sauce)
– 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño, sliced
– Sour cream and salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon the pulled pork over the tortilla chips.
4. Sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese evenly over the top of the pulled pork.
5. Add the chopped cilantro, diced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve with sour cream and salsa if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this simple and savory recipe that combines the bold flavors of pepper jack cheese and beef. Perfect for a party or game day gathering, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated pepper jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Make a hole in the center of each meatball using your thumb or a spoon. Stuff each with 1-2 tablespoons of grated pepper jack cheese.
5. Place the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pepper Jack Cheese Soup with Roasted Red Peppers
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect blend of spicy pepper jack cheese, roasted red peppers, and savory goodness. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (12 oz) block pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note), peeled and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add roasted red peppers. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast casserole featuring spicy pepper jack cheese, savory sausage, and creamy scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked sausage to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
6. Add the sausage-egg mixture, followed by the shredded cheese.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and moist recipe that combines the spiciness of pepper jack cheese with the earthy taste of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, garlic, and pepper jack cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese Pizza with Jalapeños
Elevate your pizza game with this bold and flavorful combination of spicy pepper jack cheese, crispy jalapeños, and savory tomato sauce. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 4-6 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Spread tomato sauce evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded pepper jack cheese over the sauce.
5. Arrange sliced jalapeños on top of the cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil around the crust.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pepper Jack Cheese and Sweet Potato Hash
This savory dish combines the spiciness of pepper jack cheese with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making it a perfect side dish or breakfast option. With its crispy texture and flavorful bite, this hash is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a separate pan, cook onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add shredded pepper jack cheese to the pan and stir until melted and crispy.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes and pepper jack mixture in a bowl and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 19 mouth-watering recipes featuring spicy Pepper Jack cheese! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and potato skins, to innovative twists like stuffed burgers and chicken enchiladas, this collection has something for everyone. Add a kick of flavor to your breakfast with scrambled eggs or give your pizza game a boost with a spicy pepper jack topping. With such a wide range of options, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!