Jalapeno Cheese Bites

These Jalapeno Cheese Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game days, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers. Made with a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, these bite-sized spheres offer a perfect balance of savory richness and a gentle kick from fresh jalapenos. The addition of minced cilantro not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also brings a bright, herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese. They are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring no cooking&# 226;ÂÂjust mixing, shaping, and chilling. Serve them alongside crackers, tortilla chips, or as a fun addition to a charcuterie board. Their small size makes them ideal for grazing, and they hold up well in the fridge for several hours, allowing you to prep ahead without worry.

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Appetisers

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 14

Calories: 14.0

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian

Description

These Jalapeno Cheese Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game days, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers. Made with a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, these bite-sized spheres offer a perfect balance of savory richness and a gentle kick from fresh jalapenos. The addition of minced cilantro not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also brings a bright, herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese. They are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring no cooking&# 226;ÂÂjust mixing, shaping, and chilling. Serve them alongside crackers, tortilla chips, or as a fun addition to a charcuterie board. Their small size makes them ideal for grazing, and they hold up well in the fridge for several hours, allowing you to prep ahead without worry.

Ingredients

2 Jalapeno Peppers, cored

Directions

1
Seed and finely mince the jalapeno peppers.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced jalapenos, grated Monterey Jack cheese, and grated sharp cheddar cheese.
3
Mix the ingredients thoroughly until the cheese and peppers are evenly distributed.
4
Roll the cheese mixture into small balls, approximately 3/4 inch in diameter.
5
Roll each cheese ball in the minced cilantro until fully coated.
6
Place the cheese bites on a plate and cover loosely with plastic wrap.
7
Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to allow the cheese to firm up before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 14

Amount Per Serving
Calories 14.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 1.5mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 3.0g1%
Dietary Fiber 1.0g4%
Sugars 2.4g
Protein 0.5g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and white ribs from the jalapenos before mincing. For extra heat, leave some seeds in.

Ensure the cheese is well-chilled before shaping to make rolling easier. If the mixture feels too soft, chill the grated cheese in the fridge for 15 minutes before mixing.

You can substitute cilantro with other herbs like parsley or chives if desired.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: appetizer, cheese balls, jalapeno, party food, snack, cheddar, monterey jack, cilantro, no cook, easy recipe, party bites, spicy cheese, game day, finger food, make ahead, cheese appetizer, quick snacks, potluck, holiday party, cracker topping

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/jalapeno-cheese-bites/