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Spicy Jalapeno Cheese Fudge Recipe

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4.8 from 94 reviews

This Jalapeno Mexican Fudge is a flavorful and cheesy baked casserole combining sharp cheddar and Monterrey Jack cheeses with spicy pickled jalapenos. It's a savory twist on traditional fudge, perfect as a party appetizer or a fun snack that blends creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Cheese Mixture

  • 2 lbs mild or medium Cheddar cheese, grated
  • 2 lbs Monterrey Jack cheese, grated
  • 7 whole eggs, beaten
  • 7 oz cream or evaporated milk (just a little over 3/4 cup)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Other

  • 1 jar (12 oz) pickled, sliced jalapenos, drained

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange jalapenos: Spread the drained sliced pickled jalapenos evenly in a single layer across the bottom of the prepared pan. You can test the heat level of your jalapenos and adjust the quantity or chop them finer if you prefer less spice.
  3. Mix cheeses and spices: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheddar, Monterrey Jack cheese, beaten eggs, cream or evaporated milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly—using your hands ensures even distribution.
  4. Assemble the casserole: Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the jalapenos in the pan, spreading it to cover the peppers completely.
  5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly around the edges.
  6. Cool before serving: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 20 minutes before cutting. For the best texture and clean slices, cool completely before serving.
  7. Adjustments for smaller batch: For a 9×9-inch pan, use 1 lb each of cheddar and Monterrey Jack, 3 beaten eggs, 6 tablespoons of cream or evaporated milk, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/8 teaspoon onion powder, and half a jar of jalapenos. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes with the same preparation method.

Notes

  • The level of heat in the dish depends on the pickled jalapenos used; feel free to reduce or chop them finely for milder heat.
  • Using a combination of mild or medium cheddar gives a balanced cheese flavor without overpowering the jalapenos.
  • Allowing the fudge to cool completely improves slicing and presentation.
  • This dish can be served warm or at room temperature as an appetizer or snack.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure your pickled jalapenos and seasonings are gluten-free certified.