
Mexican-Style Marinated Cheese Recipe
Mexican-style marinated cheese combines Cheddar and pepper Jack cheese squares with creamy centers for a festive, colorful appetizer that's perfect for entertaining. This eye-catching appetizer features vibrant colors and bold flavors that make it an immediate party favorite. The combination of different cheese textures and spicy marinade creates an irresistible appetizer that guests remember long after the party ends.

This Mexican-style marinated cheese, squares of Cheddar and pepper Jack cheese with cream cheese middles, makes a festive appetizer, fun to make, and fun to eat. Serve with small round tortilla chips or crackers.
Ingredients
1 (8 ounce) block sharp Cheddar cheese
1 (8 ounce) block pepper Jack cheese
8 ounces cream cheese
1 jalapeno , finely chopped
1/4 cup minced red onion
1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
Place Cheddar, pepper Jack, and cream cheese blocks in the freezer for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, add jalapeno, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, red wine vinegar, chili powder, salt, and olive oil to a bowl and stir until well blended; set aside.
Cut each block of Cheddar and Jack cheese in half lengthwise and then cut each piece into 1/4-inch square pieces. Cut a small piece off of the cream cheese and place it between alternating flavors of cheese. Place the alternating cheese slices on their slides in the bottom of a small casserole or shallow dish. This can be done in 2 to 4 rows depending on the size of the dish.
Pour the reserved marinade over the cheeses, cover, and refrigerate at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
224 | Calories |
21g | Fat |
2g | Carbs |
8g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings Per Recipe 16 | |
Calories 224 | |
% Daily Value * | |
Total Fat 21g | 27% |
Saturated Fat 9g | 46% |
Cholesterol 41mg | 14% |
Sodium 305mg | 13% |
Total Carbohydrate 2g | 1% |
Dietary Fiber 0g | 1% |
Total Sugars 1g | |
Protein 8g | 16% |
Vitamin C 2mg | 2% |
Calcium 223mg | 17% |
Iron 0mg | 1% |
Potassium 61mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.