If you’re a fan of cheesy, spicy delights, then Pioneer Woman’s Jalapeno Cheese Bread has to be on your list to try!
With the comforting blend of white Cheddar, pepper Jack, and jalapeños spread over crusty French bread, it’s impossible not to be tempted by its aroma wafting through your kitchen.
A small yet invaluable tip: mix in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise to the cheese blend to achieve that perfect creamy texture.
What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it turns simple ingredients into something truly flavorful and satisfying.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Jalapeno Cheese Bread
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 Jalapeños (chopped)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (grated)
- 1 cup Pepper Jack Cheese (grated)
- 1 cup Green Olives (chopped)
- 1 can Green Chiles (4 oz.)
- 1 cup Green Onions (sliced)
- 1 Loaf of Bread (such as sourdough)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F.
This will ensure even cooking.
Step 2:
Mix together the softened butter and mayonnaise in a large bowl.
Stir until smooth.
Step 3:
Add the jalapeños, cheddar, pepper jack, olives, green chiles, and green onions to the mixture.
Combine until evenly distributed.
Step 4:
Cut the bread loaf in half or into slices, depending on preference.
Spread the cheese mixture over the bread evenly.
Step 5:
Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Serve warm.
Serves: 6-8 people
Total Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose Fresh Jalapeños
When possible, use fresh jalapeños rather than canned or jarred versions.
This will provide the best flavor and a little extra crunch!
Adjust the Spice
If you prefer milder heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
Alternatively, substitute with a milder pepper like Anaheim.
Bread Selection
Sourdough works beautifully in this recipe, but any dense bread can be used.
Make sure it can hold the toppings well without getting soggy.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations.
A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella can offer a unique twist.
Make It Ahead
Prepare the cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate until needed.
This makes assembly quicker when you’re ready to bake!
What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Jalapeno Cheese Bread
Iced Tea
Pairing jalapeno cheese bread with a crisp and cold iced tea can create a refreshing contrast to the heat of the jalapenos.
The coolness of the tea helps balance the spicy and cheesy flavors, making each bite more enjoyable.
Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a fantastic option to serve alongside jalapeno cheese bread for a satisfying meal.
The smoky flavors of the grilled meat complement the rich and spicy notes of the bread beautifully.
Tomato Soup
A warm bowl of tomato soup is a classic choice that pairs wonderfully with jalapeno cheese bread.
The creamy texture and tangy taste of the soup harmonize with the bold flavors of the bread.
Spicy Margarita
For an adventurous drink pairing, try a spicy margarita with your jalapeno cheese bread.
The tequila-based cocktail, with a hint of spice, complements the savory and spicy elements of the bread.
Roasted Vegetables
Mix things up by serving roasted vegetables with the jalapeno cheese bread.
The earthy flavors of veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots can add a delicious contrast to the cheese and jalapeno.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Options
You can swap out the cheddar or pepper jack for your favorite cheese.
Try gouda for a rich, smoky flavor or mozzarella for something mild.
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with blue cheese for a bold twist!
Spice Level
Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños based on your preference.
For those who prefer things hotter, keep some of the seeds in or try adding hot sauce.
If you’d like a milder loaf, remove the seeds completely or alter the pepper type.
Add-Ins
Add sliced olives for a unique salty kick, making each bite flavorful and distinct.
Consider mixing in finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a hint of sweetness.
A handful of crisp bacon bits can also offer a savory surprise with each slice.
Dairy Alternatives
Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier, tangier version of the bread.
Substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter flavor and different texture.
To make it lactose-free, explore lactose-free cheese options and dairy substitutes.
How to Store Leftover Jalapeño Cheese Bread
Once you’ve made your delicious jalapeño cheese bread, you might wonder how best to store it to keep it fresh!
Room Temperature
If you plan to enjoy it within a day or two, keep the bread in an airtight plastic or reusable bag.
This prevents it from drying out while maintaining its wonderful texture.
Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigeration
For longer storage, place the bread in a resealable plastic bag or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate it to maintain freshness for up to a week.
This helps keep the jalapeños and cheese from spoiling too quickly.
Freezing
To extend its life even further, you can freeze the bread!
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil.
Place them in a freezer bag, and they’ll keep wonderfully for up to three months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overheating the Oven
You might think you’re saving time by cranking up the oven temperature to get a faster bake, but resist that urge!
Setting the oven too high can cause the bread to dry out or the cheese topping to become too crispy too quickly.
Incorrect Cheese Ratios
Don’t skimp on the cheese!
Using too little cheese will not give you that rich, gooey consistency that makes this bread so delicious.
Be generous with your cheese mix for the best results.
Skipping Jalapeño Preparation
Always prepare your jalapeños by de-seeding to control the heat level—you wouldn’t want to surprise anyone with unexpected fiery bites!
Make sure to chop them finely so they blend well into the cheese mixture.